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Known for his steady mindset and natural endurance, Kiwi brings calm leadership and quiet resilience to every Kokoda expedition. As a current serving member of the Australian Army, he understands the physical and mental demands of operating in challenging environments and applies that experience to supporting trekkers throughout their journey.
Kiwi’s trekking background spans both the North and South Islands of New Zealand, including the rugged terrain of Tongariro National Park and the remote regions of Golden Bay. While each expedition has shaped his appreciation for remote travel, walking the Kokoda Track remains one of his most rewarding and personally significant experiences.
His connection to Kokoda is strongly influenced by his military service. The campaign provides enduring lessons in resilience, strategy, and determination — qualities that continue to shape modern soldiers today. Guiding on the Track allows Kiwi to help others gain a deeper understanding of the courage, endurance, mateship, and sacrifice shown by those who fought there.
On the Track, he is valued for his composed presence, strong situational awareness, and ability to encourage trekkers through demanding moments. He understands that Kokoda is not only a physical challenge, but a deeply personal journey often completed through collective effort and shared adversity.
For Kiwi, leading people across Kokoda is both a privilege and a responsibility — one he approaches with professionalism, respect, and care.
Kiwis Guide Insights
Trekking & Guiding Background
My trekking experience has largely been shaped by remote environments across New Zealand, particularly within Tongariro National Park in the Central North Island and the Golden Bay region in the South Island. More recently, I have trekked through the Glasshouse Mountains in Southeast Queensland. While each journey has been memorable, completing the Kokoda Track remains one of my most rewarding trekking experiences to date.
Your Journey to Kokoda Spirit
Kokoda Spirit has long been recognised as one of the most respected organisations guiding the Track. The depth of experience within the team, together with a strong commitment to preserving the history and essence of Kokoda, made joining the organisation a natural choice.
Connection to Kokoda History
As a current serving member of the Australian Army, the Kokoda campaign represents a significant chapter in the study of jungle warfare, strategy, and tactical leadership. It highlights the resilience and determination of the Australian soldiers who fought there and continues to influence the mental and physical preparation of modern service personnel.
A Moment That Never Gets Old
Conducting a service at the Isurava Memorial is always deeply moving. Standing beside the four pillars — Courage, Endurance, Mateship, and Sacrifice — provides a powerful reminder of the fierce battles fought there. It is something that must be experienced in person to be fully understood.
Which Direction Is “Easier”?
Trekking from Kokoda Village to Owers’ Corner is often considered the easier direction. After the initial climb toward the Kokoda Gap, much of the journey trends downhill. Beginning at Owers’ Corner typically involves several demanding days of ascent before reaching the high point of the Track.
The Most Meaningful Place on the Track
Both Isurava and Brigade Hill leave a lasting impression, but Isurava holds particular significance for me. The four pillars capture the spirit of those who fought there, and the story of Private Bruce Kingsbury VC exemplifies the selflessness and courage shown in battle.
Favourite Village
Ioribaiwa Village. The views south toward the ranges separating the Track from Port Moresby are remarkable, while looking north provides a clear perspective of the terrain once occupied by Japanese forces — so close, yet strategically formidable.
Best Meal on the Track
Freshly made fried donuts after a long day’s trekking — hard to beat, especially with a hot brew.
One Item You’d Never Trek Without
A camera. The Kokoda Track passes through an extraordinary landscape — from birdlife and dense rainforest to rivers and mountain ranges. Capturing those moments allows trekkers to carry the experience with them long after the journey ends.
What Makes a Great Kokoda Trekker
Someone open to the experience — willing to understand the history, respect the communities along the Track, and embrace the challenge. While Kokoda is undertaken individually, it is completed together, and the shared adversity often creates lifelong bonds.
In Kiwi’s Words
Kokoda changes people because it forges an unbreakable connection through shared challenge. The fatigue, the achievement, and the history combine to create an experience that is difficult to fully explain — but impossible to forget.