ECHO Walking Festival - Enjoy Connecting Hills & Oceans

Kicking off in 2003, the ECHO Walking Festival is organised by town promoters and Sport Waikato District Coordinators in the participating towns and districts within the Waikato, Hauraki, Coromandel and Western Bay of Plenty regions.

Our mission is to offer an interesting and engaging series of guided walks and outdoor experiences that showcase active recreation opportunities and local attractions in or near Thames-Coromandel, Waihi, Waihi Beach, Katikati and Te Aroha. Through the Festival, we aim to encourage all New Zealanders to enjoy the beautiful outdoors, to appreciate the attractions of our region, and to keep fit and active.

As well as the numerous guided walks on offer, there is a cash prize photo competition.

The Festival is a non-profit event which relies heavily on volunteers, and donations to help pay for the organisation and promotion of the month-long event. Any contribution received towards ECHO is greatly appreciated and helps to ensure the success and continuation of the festival.

Contributions received are greatly appreciated and help to ensure the success and continuation of the festival. Funds go towards the ECHO website, promotional material such as flyers, posters and banners and first aid and safety equipment, cash prizes.