Great Walk Journeys: My experiences on the Great Walks of New Zealand: Who am I: Jonathan Moake

Hi there. I'm Jon Moake, kiwi tramper...

Hi, my name is Jonathon Moake, I am a tramper (that's hiker to those of you from the UK/US) from Christchurch, New Zealand. I have been a regular visitor to the New Zealand mountains for many years, spending periods from one day to several week's exploring our wonderful outdoors.

Me tramping on the Queen Charlotte Track, March 2016

My main passion is tramping but I am also interested in camping, survival skills, climbing, mountaineering, mountain biking and fitness walking. I have tramped extensively throughout both the North and South Island, from the North Island's Central Plateau volcanoes right south to Rakuira/Stewart Island.

View towards Mid Robinson Hut, Robinson Valley, Victoria Forest Park , 2015

Jon at Travers Saddle, Nelson Lakes NP in early 2018

View from the Lewis Pass Tops, Lewis Pass Scenic Reserve, December 2014

My main tramping grounds include Arthur's Pass National Park, the Canterbury Foothills, Lake Sumner Forest Park and the area near Lewis Pass Scenic Reserve all 1-3 hours drive from my home. I also spend a lot of time in Nelson Lakes National Park, Abel Tasman National Park, on the West Coast of the South Island, Kahurangi National Park and Fiordland.

Lake Rotoiti, Nelson Lakes NP from the Coldwater Hut jetty, 2016

I also enjoy tramping on the Port Hills and Banks Peninsula which are clearly visible from my home in Christchurch. Despite their front country reputation there are many excellent tramps there...