Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Planning Your Tramp
When to Go
Mid-December-late January
Tramping high season is during the school summer holidays, starting a couple of weeks
before Christmas − avoid it if you can.
January-March
The summer weather lingers into March: wait until February if you can, when tracks are (marginally)
less crowded. Most nonalpine tracks can be walked enjoyably at any time from about October through to April.
June-August
Winter is not the time to be out in the wild, especially at altitude − some paths close in winter because of
avalanche danger and reduced facilities and services.
What to Bring
Primary considerations: your feet and your shoulders. Make sure your footwear is tough
and well worn-in, and your pack isn't too heavy. Wet-weather gear is essential, especially
on the South Island's waterlogged West Coast. If you're camping or staying in huts without
stoves, bring a camping stove. Also bring insect repellent to keep sandflies away, and don't
forget your 'scroggin' − a mixture of dried fruit and nuts (and sometimes chocolate) for
munching en route.
TRACK SAFETY
Thousands of people tramp across NZ without incident, but every year a few folks meet their maker in the moun-
tains. Some trails are only for the experienced, fit and well equipped − don't attempt these if you don't fit the bill.
Ensure you are healthy and feel comfortable walking for sustained periods.
NZ's climatic changeability subjects high-altitude walks to snow and ice, even in summer: always check weather
and track conditions before setting off, and be ready for them to change rapidly. Resources:
Department of Conservation
(DOC;
www.doc.govt.nz
)
Weather and track info.
www.adventuresmart.org.nz
Log your walk intentions online (and tell a friend!).
www.mountainsafety.org.nz
Tramping safety tips.
www.metservice.co.nz
Weather.
Books & Resources
Before plodding off into the forest, get up-to-date information from the appropriate author-
