Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
You will expend far more energy than normal when tramping. Fuelling up on the right
types of food and staying hydrated will keep you rational, and smiling. See the Clothing,
Equipment & Food chapter ( Click here ) for more details.
Intentions
Tell someone your plans and set a date and time for raising an alarm if you haven't returned.
The New Zealand Outdoors Intentions process is the most widely supported and endorsed
system for registering your trip plans. It's best to do it before you set off: online, by email,
or by manually completing a form via AdventureSmart ( www.adventuresmart.org.nz ). Just
remember to inform your trusted contact that you have returned safely.
When you're on the track write in the hut logbooks even if you're not staying there, as
this will help would-be rescuers find you more quickly.
Get the Latest Information
Before you set off, check in at the nearest DOC office for the latest track and weather in-
formation.
Navigation
Stay on Track
With the exception of remote and lightly used backcountry tracks, NZ's track network is
very well signposted with marker posts, permolats (metal disks), orange plastic triangles, or-
ange tipped poles and clear junction signage.
The main challenge to navigation is bad weather, where tree-fall or track washout might
encourage you to deviate from the signposted route, or an enveloping mist leaves you
without any sense of direction. The art of navigation is an essential tramping skill, and one
you shouldn't leave home without. Not only will it ensure you know where you are and
where you need to go, reading a map and using a compass will help you see the bigger pic-
ture, including having an awareness of the surrounding area and possible escape routes, dis-
tances and types of terrain. It can also help you apply weather information such as wind dir-
ection from a weather forecast to your area. See Click here for more tips on navigation.
If you do get lost, remember the following basic rules:
A Stop, stay calm and carefully plan what to do.
 
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