Abigail Hannah

Aotearoa Adventures

Episode 164

Five Months SOBO on Te Araroa and Finding Community with Deni Estivill

56 min

Spotify Apple Podcasts Everywhere else Download

Deni Estivill left her corporate job in Brisbane and found herself walking the length of Aotearoa SOBO on Te Araroa with only one overnight hike behind her. She shares how climate anxiety pushed her toward the trail, what it was like to start as a complete beginner and how quickly community formed around her. From the canoe section on the Whanganui River to a tough moment on a scree slope in the Richmond Ranges, Deni talks about the people who supported her and the small acts of kindness that shaped her journey. She reflects on the shift she felt after five months outdoors and what it meant to return home with a completely different outlook on life.

Discover the best of New Zealand with my NZ Map & Guide, featuring 100+ incredible locations for your next adventure. Use PODCAST10 at checkout for 10% off and start planning your dream trip today


Thank you so much for tuning in and coming along for the ride. If you love the show and enjoyed listening, please take the time to leave a review on Apple or Spotify. I would also love to connect with you, so send me a DM on Instagram, leave me a voice message and I can’t wait to see you next time. Until then, keep adventuring :)


Follow Deni on Instagram: instagram.com/esti.den/

Read the Blog: www.abigailhannah.nz

Follow Abigail on Instagram: instagram.com/abigailhannnah/

Follow Abigail on TikTok: tiktok.com/@abigailhannnah/

Get my NZ Map & Guide

The ultimate

NZ road trip adventure guide

Packed with insider tips and stunning photography, this is the only resource you need to plan your journey.

Buy now on Rexby

The NZ Road Trip Adventure Guide map open on a phone