Tired of tramping the footpaths? Take it outside with a hike in the bush. But don’t get caught short like so many Kiwi trampers have done. Stay safe with these guidelines for walking anywhere in New Zealand.

1: Eat a good breakfast. It’s true: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. A morning meal that includes hot cereal, like porridge, will provide carbohydrates for energy on the trail. Keep your energy level up throughout the day by sipping water and nibbling on fruits and nuts.

2: Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return. Let family or friends know your hiking plans. If you’re overdue, rescuers will know where to look for you. Posting your itinerary on your car in the carpark can be an invitation to thieves, and isn’t advised.

3: Get a weather report. Weather is always the wild card in the bush. When you hit the trails, wear or bring clothing that’ll keep you warm and dry, even if the skies are clear. Be willing to turn back if the weather becomes threatening. Stay inside and take up knitting if the weather is dangerous. The hills will still be there tomorrow.

4: Bring a compass, a map, and a guidebook. A compass is an invaluable navigational tool, but a lousy talisman. It brings you no luck if it sits in your pocket (which is where it’s likely to stay if you don’t know how to use it, so brush up!).

5: Bring a light source. Torches or headlamps are
essential gear, even if you don’t plan on being out after dark. Pop an ankle or wander off trail and, suddenly, your quick hike can take a lot more time. Toss in a back-up torch and an extra set of fresh batteries to be truly prepared.

6: Bring a first aid kit. Simple stuff does the trick. Adhesive bandages, adhesive tape, gauze, a small squeeze bottle to irrigate wounds, antibiotic ointment, and pain relievers are the basics. Also, a bandanna works as a cravat bandage or a sling.

7: Wear well-worn shoes with good grip. A new pair will be a recipe for problems, so grab some that have had plenty of use. Choose a quality shoe that won’t fall apart halfway along the track, and the same goes for your pack and all your other gear. Don’t make the
mistake of skimping on quality so that you save a few dollars but end up infuriated or, worse, in trouble.

8: Bring plenty of water. Nobody drinks enough water. And you need lots when you’re exercising. Two litres per person per day is recommended.

9: Carry out what you carry in. It’s hard to believe this was a new concept as recently as 1970. Luckily, it’s here to stay. There are no rubbish collectors in the backcountry, so, as the saying goes, “take only photos, leave only footprints".

10: Don’t forget the duct tape. In the forests, duct tape is a repair kit on a roll.  A hole in your canoe or a tear in your tent is no fun, but a bit of duct tape can save the day. If you can’t fix it with duct tape, you can’t fix it.

Finally... Stop and smell the flowers. The summit view you’re aiming for is just one part of the hike. The journey to get there holds just as many rewards if we slow down and enjoy them. And, if you have room in your pack, don’t forget your camera.

Quick Summary: The Essentials
1. Map
2. Compass
3. Torch
4. Extra food
5. Water
6. Water purification means
7. Extra clothing
8. Rain gear
9. Matches
10. Fire starter or candle
11. Sun protection: sunscreen, lip sun-block, sun hat, sun glasses
12. Pocket knife
13. First aid kit
14. Whistle






Article reproduced courtesy of DASH magazine, click here to check out their website and find out more about the mag