Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Trip Planning
Choosing Your Tramp
Select a tramp that suits your level of fitness and experience. Tramps are graded within this
guidebook and on the Department of Conservation (DOC) website to help you choose the
most suitable ones for you. Talking to people who have recently completed the tramp is also
a great source of information.
Many of NZ's most famous tracks are located in mountainous regions, and in winter these
will be off limits to all but the most experienced and well-equipped trampers. There are,
however, tracks that can be completed in shoulder seasons or even all year round. Choose
the right tramp for the right time of year.
If it's your first tramp or you've just arrived in the country, the Great Walks (
Click here
)
are an ideal introduction. Not only incredibly scenic, they are also well signposted and
maintained, and monitored by hut wardens who will pass on weather reports, track condition
updates, and helpful advice. Another way to ease yourself into it is to start with day hikes or
go on a guided trip.
Go With Those in the Know
If possible, tramp with someone else or within a group. Not only is there safety in numbers,
it's usually more fun. Hiking companions can be found by reading noticeboards, lingering
around DOC visitor centres, or online through sites such as Meetup (
www.meetup.com
) or
the Federated Mountain Clubs (
www.fmc.org.nz
).
Another great source of knowledge on the NZ tramping experience is the Mountain
Safety Council (
www.mountainsafety.org.nz
)
. It produces the excellent
Bushcraft
manual as
well as other helpful guides such as
Plan to Survive, Preventing Hypothermia
and
Outdoor
Communications
. It also runs regular courses at local branches throughout NZ.
Clothing, Equipment & Food
You need the right kit for the job, and nothing less will do. Staying warm and dry is essen-
tial, so pack quality clothing layers and a spare set of dry clothes to change into. The rest of
your kit will be dictated by your trip length and location, but prioritise the inclusion of a
first-aid kit, wet-weather gear, warm clothes and a means of communication.
