Affordability and accessibility make jogging an extremely popular exercise activity among New Zealanders. All you need to do is pull on a decent pair of running shoes, then you can head out into the fresh air and pound the myriad parks, reserves and walkways. As well as jogging alone or with friends, most recreational joggers also enjoy participating in the many “fun run” events that are held regularly throughout the country. These could range from the annual Auckland Round the Bays event which attracts 70 000 participants over the 8.4km course (www.roundthebays.co.nz) to a low-key run/walk organised as a fundraiser for a local primary school. The best way to find out about these events is to read your community newspaper, look on community noticeboards and listen to the local radio station. The independent website www.coolrunning.co.nz has good information relating to events and running in general. If you join a local running club, you’ll be kept up to date with event information and can join in club runs and walks.