Dame Lynda Topp has thrown her weight behind a campaign to get New Zealanders back into nature.
Fish and Game New Zealand is actively trying to encourage people to take up angling and hunting as part of a "Rewild" campaign.
Dame Lynda Topp, who has been an angler and hunter since childhood, told AM she found fishing a major benefit for her mental health.
"It's a win-win for everybody.
"When you're out there with your rod in your hand, and you're standing there in the pristine river in the South Island, with the mountains all around you and the sun is shining, it is the most amazing feeling.
"When I'm out there, I forget about it, I forget I've got cancer. I forget about my appointment at the doctor's, I'm just there in the moment, standing in pristine New Zealand, trying to catch a fish."
Dame Lynda also believes the possibility to provide is a big bonus many Kiwis should embrace in the cost of living crisis.
"You can bring something home to the table - the family love it when you bring stuff home.
"I actually don't bring anything home - I kiss them and release them!"
Watch the AM interview above.
