Latest news with #Walk
NZ Herald
3 days ago
- NZ Herald
Great Walks with kids: A family's adventure through NZ's trails
For quality, screen-free family time, a Great Walk really delivers. You are largely off-grid and out in nature together, with several hours of walking – and potential talking time – each day. Our kids usually take turns leading and dropping back to chat with their packhorse parents. Once at the huts, it's more family bonding as you unwind from the day, share some treats and cook dinner. It's all very Brady Bunch until it inevitably isn't; for example, when someone knocks over his Milo and completely soaks his only spare set of clothes. The Kepler Track in Fiordland. Photo / Tourism NZ It's easy to get blasé about New Zealand's natural beauty and dramatic landscapes. The Great Walks will jolt you out of any such complacency. Even the kids, usually indifferent to calendar-worthy views, found plenty to delight in. Walking through the otherworldly and iron-flat South Crater on the Tongariro Circuit, surrounded by craggy, volcanic terrain and the famous cone of Ngauruhoe, was a surreal and awe-inspiring experience. To my imaginative 10-year-old, we were in dragon country. The Heaphy Hut was another highlight, overlooking the point where the Heaphy River meets the roiling Tasman Sea. As we soaked in the scene, fringed by nikau palms and resplendent in the sunset, the kids revelled on the river bank, hunting for treasures and dipping in and out of the cool, clean river current. Start small to build confidence As with any holiday with kids, adequate preparation is important. Having ticked off a few day walks in our home region of Hawke's Bay, we had already established that the kids were very capable, if not always enthusiastic, walkers. We thoroughly researched each walk before booking (the Department of Conservation has extensive information on its website – including track descriptions, potential hazards, gear lists and difficulty ratings for each walk. For pre-walk training, we put our half-full packs on and headed up our local mountain, Te Mata Peak, tramping similar distances, time-frames and elevations as we'd face on our upcoming walk. And yes, we did get some odd looks. Te Mata Peak offers a good opportunity as a trial walk. Photo / Kirsten Simcox Embrace early starts and bush toilets When on the tracks, we usually set off early – giving plenty of time to complete the day's distance. Often, there are natural stops along the way – other huts and shelters, lookouts, points of interest – and breaking the day up into chunks is a great way to keep kids motivated. You'll also be stopping when nature calls, and I'm not talking about birdsong. Realistically, and despite your repeated pleas to use available facilities, you may be dealing with an urgent bowel motion on the most remote part of the track. In this situation, you'll need a compostable bag, or a trowel and a spot well away from the track, campsites and any water. Chalk it up as a new experience for young and old. Abel Tasman National Park. Photo / Tourism NZ Lean into a little make-believe Keeping morale up on a long day of walking required a mix of games and deep-dive conversations into our children's latest interests. On the Abel Tasman, we were hard into the Harry Potter phase and every third stick we encountered was assessed for its spell-casting potential. There's a limit, of course, to how many of the 1000-plus Pokemon characters you can bear to hear about, or how much I Spy you can play in the bush. This is where outright bribes in the form of cold, hard candy come in. They work on adults too. Plan post-hiking fun Arriving at the hut after a day of walking can be a religious experience. Don't get too comfortable though, as your kids will inexplicably still have energy to burn. Once you've bagged your bunks (fellow trampers are usually very reasonable about letting families bunk in the same room), be prepared to go exploring around the huts – there is often a postcard-perfect waterfall, swimming hole or vista just a short walk away. Back at the hut, it's time to break out the snacks and diversions. Some huts have a collection of puzzles, cards and games, but it's a good idea to take your own too. The Great Walks challenge began on the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Photo / Claire Rogers Keep mealtimes simple For meals, we kept it simple. Breakfasts (porridge mix) and dinners (a freeze-dried meal) were as easy as adding boiling water to the sachets, stirring the mix and letting them sit. Lunches and snacks were salami and bier sticks, wraps, energy bars, lollies, crackers and cheese. While the thought of a freeze-dried roast chicken meal – complete with mash and stuffing – may not have you salivating, our kids gave it rave reviews. Enjoy the break from the nightly battle over fresh veggies. Make friends along the way Stepping out on day one of the Abel Tasman track, we were a tad nervous as to how our fellow hut dwellers would receive our outgoing brood, who were 6, 8 and 9 at the time. We needn't have worried. The camaraderie in the huts is one of the best things about the Great Walks, and most of our walking companions have been delighted to see children tackling the tracks with them. We loved reuniting with our newfound friends each night, sharing stories from the day. One tramper went so far as to organise an epic 'backyard' cricket match for our would-be Black Caps, constructing a bat out of driftwood and converting an avocado stone into a ball with strapping tape. On the wall in our home office, there's a Great Walk map. The kids love to look at the distances and climbs they've conquered, the huts they've lodged in, and remember the people we met along the way. When you sign up for a Great Walk with kids, you are signing up for a challenge. But the family memories made, the soul-nourishing scenery, and the immense and collective sense of achievement each time have us coming back for more.
Daily Tribune
3 days ago
- Daily Tribune
Escape the Summer Heat: Discover Cool Comfort at Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar in Oman
If you're spending summer in the Gulf and craving a cool, refreshing break, you don't have to look far. Tucked away 2,000 meters above sea level in Oman's beautiful Green Mountain, Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa offers a peaceful retreat from the blazing temperatures of the region. With fresh mountain air, stunning views, and temperatures up to 15°C cooler than the coast, this boutique resort is the perfect escape for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to unwind before heading back to routine. Cool Offers to Help You Stay Longer Sometimes a single night just isn't enough to soak in the beauty and calm of the mountains. The resort's "Stay a Little Longer" packages give guests more time to relax: Stay 3 Nights, Pay for 2 – Get one free night when you book three. Starting at OMR 85++. Stay 6 Nights, Pay for 4 – Stay six nights and enjoy two nights on the house. Also from OMR 85++. This offer is valid for bookings made until September 30, 2025, for stays up to October 31, 2025. A minimum of 3 consecutive nights is required. Rates are subject to availability. Wellness in the Clouds Need a full reset? The resort's "Wellness Escape" is designed to refresh your body and mind in a serene setting. Starting from OMR 151++, the package includes: A 60-minute body therapy session at Jala Spa to relax and rejuvenate. Weekly wellness activities, such as yoga and meditation in the cool mountain air. A peaceful stay in rooms with stunning views of dramatic cliffs and lush orchards. Breakfast for two included. This package requires a minimum 2-night stay. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before check-in. Explore the Wonders of Jabal Akhdar Step beyond the resort and uncover the cultural charm and natural beauty of Jabal Akhdar through a variety of local experiences: Via Ferrata Adventure – a scenic and thrilling climb across high bridges for the adventurous. Rose Water Factory Tour – learn how traditional rose water is made, a deep-rooted part of Omani culture. Three Village Walk – a guided journey through the historic villages of Al Ain, Al Aqar, and Al Shreija. Hiking Trails – from gentle paths to challenging summits, every trail offers unforgettable views. Closer Than You Think You don't need to deal with long flights or jet lag to enjoy a mountain escape. The resort is a scenic 5-hour drive from Dubai, or you can fly into Muscat and enjoy a beautiful 2-hour drive up the mountains. Whether you're seeking cooler air, a wellness reset, or a cultural adventure, Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa is a summer getaway that's closer—and more magical—than you think.
Metro
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
Rock band reschedule handful of shows to 'grieve' Ozzy Osbourne
Iconic metal band Pantera has cancelled several shows following the death of long-time friend Ozzy Osbourne. The Black Sabbath vocalist and music pioneer died aged 76 on July 22, with his family announcing the news to his legions of fans. It came just weeks after Ozzy and Sabbath performed their final show in their hometown of Birmingham, raising £140million for charity. Pantera – made up of Phil Anselmo, Charlie Benante, Rex Brown, and Zakk Wylde – were among the star-studded bill of Back To The Beginning, performing Cowboys from Hell, Walk, Planet Caravan, and Electric Funeral. Zakk was the longtime guitarist for Ozzy and joined Pantera in 2022 when the 80s band reformed. Following Ozzy's death, the group has rescheduled two concerts and cancelled three others to allow the band members to 'mourn' and 'grieve' their friend. In a message posted to social media, they said: 'Ozzy wasn't just a legend who shaped the very foundation of heavy metal and inspired Pantera from the beginning — he was family. 'A mentor, a brother, and a constant presence in our lives both on and off the stage. The bond we shared with him ran far deeper than music. 'In light of this profound loss, we need time and space to grieve — to be with our families, our crew, and each other as we process and honour the life of someone who meant so much to us. 'Out of respect, and to allow members of our team the time to mourn, we will be rescheduling the following shows.' Their US shows in Gilford, Birmingham, and Virginia Beach will no longer take place. Their July 20 show in Saratoga Springs has been rescheduled to September 9, and their July 31 date in Holmdel will now be held on September 8. Following the news of Ozzy's death, Pantera shared a tribute online expressing their deepest sympathies with his wife, Sharon, and his children, including Jack and Kelly. 'RIP @ozzyosbourne Thank you for all that you did for metal & Pantera. We wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Amy & Louis, we are so very sorry for your loss ❤️🩹,' they wrote. Ahead of the Back To The Beginning show, Zakk, who toured extensively with Ozzy throughout his career and reunited with the musician at the Villa Park show, shared some of his fondest memories of the Crazy Train hitmaker. 'I remember we played the Budokan [Arena] in Tokyo. I'd always have a bag of beer with me, just in case anywhere we were going didn't have beer,' the Black Label Society musician told NME. 'So, Oz comes in the room after the gig. He goes 'Zakky, Zakky… you got any beers?' I go, 'Yeah, but I'm not giving you one here. You're going to get us fired! Mum's [Sharon Osbourne] right across the hall – she's going to come and see the two of us drinking, is that going to be good?' He said the pair were like 'a couple of naughty school kids' opening up on the 'wholesome' touring memory. '[Ozzy] goes, 'Alright, tell you what, I'll meet you in the bathroom.' So I go in the bathroom, I'm waiting. All of a sudden, I hear the door open. He comes in the stall right next to me, and I push a Kirin or Asahi under there. I hear the 'psssst' of the can, then 'glug, glug, glug!' He downs it in one, puts the can down, pushes it back under and goes, 'Thanks, Zakk. I'll see you at dinner'.' To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Plenty of celebrities across the globe have also shared tributes, including Sir David Beckham, Queen legend Sir Brian May, and the Gallagher brothers, who displayed Osbourne's photo on-screen during their Wembley concert. Osbourne's death was announced by his family, who revealed that he was 'surrounded by love' when the moment came. More Trending They said in a statement: 'It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love.' As well as Sharon, he is survived by six children from his two marriages. Fans will know Kelly and Jack, whom he shared with Sharon and starred in their hugely popular reality series The Osbournes. But he also had another daughter, Aimee, with the former X Factor judge. As for his other kids, Osbourne welcomed Elliott, Louis, and Jessica with Thelma Riley, to whom he was married from 1971 to 1982. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: American musician and satirist Tom Lehrer dies aged 97 MORE: Drake angers fans after cancelling Manchester gig last minute over 'unforeseen' issue MORE: Dame Cleo Laine, first lady of British jazz, dies aged 97
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Deepika Padukone named among 90+ women shaping culture alongside Selena Gomez, Angelina Jolie
Bollywood star Deepika Padukone has been featured on The Shift's prestigious list of 90+ Women Shaping Culture, a global lineup that includes celebrities like Selena Gomez, Angelina Jolie, Billie Eilish, Amal Clooney, and Zoya Akhtar. The list celebrates women across the worlds of activism, creativity, leadership, and global influence, with this special edition honouring 91 years of legendary feminist Gloria Steinem. Featured on The Shift's list of 90+ Women Shaping Culture, Deepika Padukone says success as a balance of well-being and professional achievements.(Instagram/ deepikapadukone) Deepika named among 90 women shaping future Sharing the moment on Instagram on Sunday, Deepika wrote, "In tribute to the one and only Gloria Steinem and her 91 years of activism, The Shift is honoring 90 voices shaping our future. Grateful for the honour… #TheShiftIsOn." In the feature, Deepika reflected on her philosophy of success: "To me, success isn't just about professional achievements but also about well-being—where mental health and self-care matter as much as discipline, dedication, and determination. I hope to inspire a generation that values patience, balance, consistency, and authenticity." Her inclusion on the list highlights her impact beyond cinema, particularly her work in mental health awareness through her Live Love Laugh Foundation, which has helped normalise conversations around emotional wellness in India and globally. Deepika's latest outings Deepika Padukone continues to make history, becoming the first Indian to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2026. Deepika is now gearing up for her next big-screen venture—a high-octane pan-India action film directed by Atlee and backed by Sun Pictures. Tentatively titled AA22xA6, the film features Allu Arjun in the lead and marks Deepika's first collaboration with him, and her second with Atlee after Jawan. The project is already generating buzz for its powerhouse cast and promises to be one of the most anticipated releases in the coming year. Deepika is also set to return for the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD, with production expected to begin in December 2025. According to producers Priyanka and Swapna Dutt, about 30–35% of Kalki 2 has already been filmed, and Deepika will continue to appear as the mother in parts of the sequel. While Nag Ashwin has confirmed the scripting is complete, the film is expected to focus more on Prabhas's character Karna and his dynamic with Amitabh Bachchan's Ashwatthama.
Barnama
5 days ago
- Politics
- Barnama
Fahmi Joins In Merdeka 6.8Km Fun Run & Walk In Muar
GENERAL MUAR, July 27 (Bernama) -- Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil joined about 3,000 participants in the Merdeka 6.8KM Fun Run & Walk programme at Dataran Tanjung Emas here. It was held in conjunction with the launch of the 2025 National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign (MPBKKJG 2025) later today. Fahmi, who is also the Chairman of the Main Committee for the National Day and Malaysia Day 2025 Celebration, joined in the run after flagging off the participants, comprising students from schools and institutions of higher learning, as well as staff of government agencies and departments, at 7.08 am. Also joining the participants in the run were the Communications Ministry Deputy Secretary-General (Strategic Communications and Creative Industries) Nik Kamaruzaman Nik Husin, Deputy Secretary-General (Telecommunication Infrastructure) Mano Verabathran and Senior Division Secretary (Management) Mazlan Abd Mutalib. Others included as Malaysian Information Department (JaPen) director-general Julina Johan. The run was held in a spirited atmosphere filled with patriotism and sportsmanship, as many participants waved the Jalur Gemilang while running and walking along the iconic route around the town of Muar, also known as Bandar Maharani. Participants who registered early also received special edition shirts, while the first 1,000 participants who completed the run received medals. There were also lucky draws offering various prizes for participants. The MPBKKJG will be launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at 10 am today. -- BERNAMA
