With the opening of lots of high-country Department of Conservation tracks in October, we’ve been out and about, mixing and mingling with other trucks and their drivers. Chat around the campsites has revealed some clear favourites when it comes to wishlists for Santa. In no particular order, here is what your truck really wants for Christmas.

Another blog in my series looking at some of the best routes in my book and nearby towns and centres that make an ideal base. This time – East Otago and the town of Cromwell.

Another blog in my series looking at some of the best routes in my book and nearby towns and centres that make an ideal base. This time – South Canterbury and the towns of Fairlie and Omarama.

Another blog in my series looking at some of the best routes in my book and nearby towns and centres that make an ideal base. This time – West Otago and the town of Middlemarch.

Judging by sales of my 4WD guidebook and social media posts, there are a lot of keen off-roaders and overlanders out there planning their summer adventures. To help, here is the first in a series of blogs looking at some of the best routes in my book and nearby towns and centres that make an ideal base.

The most mundane food becomes a culinary marvel when it’s cooked on the tailgate of your truck or under a tent fly at some remote campsite. Something about it gives the tastebuds an extra zing. There are a few things to look out for, though, to make sure you don’t end up with a hungry and mutinous crew.