New Zealand Tramping Adventure

By Tim A Alpe

New Zealand is blessed with outstanding landscapes and breathtaking wilderness which can blow one's mind away. Tramping in Kiwi speak is normally called walking, hiking or trekking in other parts of the world. Tramping is the best way to drink in Aotearoa's natural beauty.

New Zealand's diverse terrain will have you spellbound ranging from greenbelt city areas to long beaches, coastal cliffs, grasslands, rainforests, farmlands, mountains and volcanic regions. It is any hiker's delight to be confronted by such a wide assortment of such inviting landscapes. About 30% of tramping land is conservation land with access to the general public, protected under the umbrella of Department of Conservation (DOC). Most of this land is made up of forest parks, natural parks and other reserves. Tracks are graded depending on their topography and level of difficulty. They can be classified as follows:

Path: Easy and well formed; Wheel chair access is allowed. Track is constructed to shoe standard (hiking boots not required). It is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels

Walking track: Easy and well formed; The track is constructed to shoe standard. It is suitable for people of most ages and fitness levels.

Tramping track: It requires skill and experience. It is constructed to boot standard (hiking boots required). It is suitable for people of average physical fitness.

Route: It requires a high degree of skill, experience and route-finding ability. It is suitable for experienced and well equipped walkers.

(Track Definition Source:Lonely Planet - New Zealand)

Tramping tracks are well mapped and extend over several thousand kilometres. Trampers are extremely well catered for by the DOC which has over the years established a superb network of huts and campsites that eliminates the problems of carting tents and cooking appliances. This accommodation network is accessed through a backcountry hut ticket system. You are allowed to camp in any location unless there is a specific sign forbidding it. Examples include private land, water catchments and sensitive habitats. The Great Walks is a renowned tramping track. Tourists from world over converge here during peak tourist season and crowding results.

The months of December and January are peak tramping season and it coincides with the school holidays. It is high traffic season. Tramping can be done from October to March but the best weather for this activity is January to March. Tramping is best avoided between June and August. This is peak winter season. Tracks situated on high altitude are prone to avalanche risks. To enjoy tramping use quality footwear that is comforting to your feet.Alleviate shoulder strain by carrying a light backpack. Wet weather gear is a must. The presence of sandflies in coastal regions warrants that insect repellant is a vital part of your backpack. Before you commence your walk, check whether the huts or camping sites you are staying in has cooking gear. If it is a no, do carry a stove available from camping shops. For responsible tramping, it is important to keep in mind key factors such as wildlife conservation, cooking in public places, rubbish and human waste disposal.

Points to note:

• Tracks can vary in difficulty depending on the weather and season.
• Before going on a walk, it is best to carry a descriptive map and the most recent description of the tramping route you are taking. It is advisable to consult the DOC if in doubt.
• Make sure you have an experienced tramper for company, especially if he/she has encountered weather conditions similar to the one you face on the day of the tramp.
• The weather in New Zealand can change very rapidly. Consult your nearest DOC field centre for the latest track and weather conditions before commencing the tramp. Cancel the expedition if the weather is bad.
• Carry water and drink at regular intervals.
• Carry high energy food as you may be out longer than you expect.
• Carry clothing layers to protect from the cold, wind and rain. Be aware that synthetic clothing dries quicker than cotton and wool.
• It is wise to carry survival bags or tent fly in the event of unanticipated overnight camping. Survival bags are available at leading camping stores and DOC field centres.

You will need transport to go to walking tracks. It is ideal to hire a Jucy New Zealand car hire and/or a Jucy New Zealand campervan rental. We would love to take care of your tranportation needs and let you have a delightful New Zealand tramping experience.