This year’s Echo Walking Festival offers something for everyone.

The festival runs from March 20 to April 19 and comprises 44 guided events – from gentle outings to full-day and overnight adventures.

This year the festival is hosting guided walks from the Coromandel to Te Puke, offering walkers of all ages and abilities rich terrain to cover, from sweeping coastlines to lush native bush.

Echo chair Vicki Lambert said the festival plays an important role in connecting people to place.

“The Echo Walking Festival is a wonderful way for locals to deepen their understanding of the landscapes they call home, while welcoming visitors to explore and learn about our region.

For the experienced

“Through walking and shared stories, people gain an appreciation of what makes this area so special.”

For experienced trampers seeking a challenge, highlights include the Horse Whim and Komata Reefs Mine Walk at Waihī Beach.

This fascinating historic walk through the old gold workings at Golden Cross, nestled between Waihī and Paeroa. The track begins in open country before winding into native forest, where several short, steep climbs and stream crossings offer a rewarding challenge for experienced trampers.

For the history-lovers

History enthusiasts can explore the Maratoto Wires Track, following remnants of New Zealand’s early telephone network through the Maratoto Valley, or step back into the gold-mining era on the Horse Whim and Komata Reefs Mine walk at Golden Cross.

For the families

Families and curious explorers are equally well catered for, with a dedicated Echo explorer kids programme designed to inspire tamariki through fun, hands-on outdoor experiences that encourage learning, curiosity and connection with nature.

Katch Katikati’s Kylie Watkins with a group at Sentinel Lookout. Photo / Supplied

An after-dark adventure in Te Aroha’s forest reveals glowing titiwai (glow worms) and the call of ruru on the Twinkle Twinkle Little Titiwai walk.

The Restoration Ramble through I’Anson Bush Reserve showcases the inspiring transformation of former pasture into thriving native forest, while the Otawhiwhi Cultural Walk at Bowentown offers a gentle, guided experience rich in Māori history and storytelling.

Local guides

Lambert said a defining feature of the Echo Walking Festival is its local guides, whose deep knowledge of ecology, history and conservation brings each walk to life.

“Some walks also access private land, opened exclusively for the festival, offering truly unique experiences. Most walks are koha-based, making it easy for families and visitors to take part.

“Whether you’re discovering a new track, seeing a familiar place through fresh eyes, or enjoying time outdoors with purpose, the Echo Walking Festival offers an unforgettable way to experience the land – one step at a time.”

For more information and to book your spot, visit: echowalkfest.org.nz