Back in 2021...

Hi Pavlina here 👋 Hike Aotearoa's story began when our family relocated from Auckland to Nelson.

I was balancing life as a stay-at-home mom when I saw an opportunity to channel my creative energy by celebrating one of my greatest passions: the New Zealand outdoors.

While searching for unique New Zealand-themed maps for our new home, my husband and I couldn't find exactly what we were looking for. Inspired by the idea of a map showcasing the incredible hikes across New Zealand, I decided to create one myself.
Despite the impending arrival of my second baby, I poured my heart into designing the map I had always wanted, carefully detailing everything from hiking routes to elevation profiles and huts. I wrapped up the final touches just days before going into labor. When the first printed version arrived after the birth of our daughter, we still debated which came first, the map or the baby.

I realised we were onto something.

Our friends loved our first Great Walks print, and word spread quickly among hiking enthusiasts. Not only did people enjoy what we were creating, but they also encouraged us to develop more products to celebrate New Zealand’s outdoors. That’s when we knew we were onto something else. We took the leap, developed our brand, and launched our first website.

Fast forward to 2026 and beyond.

With over 30 products launched and thousands of happy customers around the world, our brand is now present both online and through retail stores across New Zealand. Our mission to celebrate New Zealand’s great outdoors and the amazing hiking community. We've never been more excited to chase our dreams. It's a long journey, and just like any hike, we’re taking it one step at a time.