Mia has always wanted to explore the Wild. But she never gets much farther than her imagination inside her backyard with little brother Leo. That is until Uncle Joe
comes to visit, offering a trek into the New Zealand wild!
She is surprised at how much equipment and clothing is needed for the trip, but Uncle Joe and Mum have learnt how to stay safe and warm out there, no matter what happens.
Finally on the track to wild Whiowhio Hut, Mia and Leo enjoy blowing the whistles Uncle Joe has given them, just in case they get lost. There are others on the track too. Older trampers, a trapper, and a group of teenage friends. Mia is worried her family are walking too slow as each group passes them.
‘Don’t worry. We’ve got lots of time,’ assures Mum.
Later, as they come across each group on the track, Mia and Leo learning about the NZ bush and in turn, end up helping others with their ‘just in case’ supplies.
Night time in the Wild is extra exciting for the siblings as shadows tower over them and eyes shine in torchlights.
A night sleeping in the Whiowhio Hut tops off their adventure, giving Mia & Leo even more stories to tell of their time in the Wild.
Written in collaboration with the NZ Mountain Safety Council, Mia & Leo Go Wild! captures Kiwi kid’s adventuring spirit. Most importantly, this story highlights in an entertaining way, the need for proper preparation before setting off into the New Zealand bush.
Having plenty of time to enjoy the tramp, adequate supplies including food and warm clothing if needed, and being prepared to help others if required is also important.
In the rear of the book, a fun search and find activity will send you back to the beginning. Three more activities are also waiting to be experienced by young readers.
Keeping Safe guidelines and more information on the NZ Mountain Safety Council complete Mia & Leo’s Go Wild!
A fantastic introduction for any kiwi kids keen for their own adventure into the New Zealand bush.
Author – Gillian Candler
Illustrator – Gavin Mouldey
Picture Book
(2023, Potton & Burton, Trampers, Tramping, Hikers, Hiking, Trapping, Bush Huts, NZ, New Zealand Bush, Aotearoa, Search & Find, Activities, Safety, Preparation, Enjoying Nature, Adventure, Family, Uncle, Siblings, Kiwi Kids, NZ Mountain Safety Council)