9 Tips to Prepare for a Multi-Day Hike in New Zealand

1. Choose the Right Track

At the beginning of a track maintained by the Department of Conservation (DoC), there are symbols in a blue box indicating the difficulty of the walking/hiking track. This ranges from easy access short walks suitable for wheelchairs to a hiking route, which will involve challenging uneven tracks. A multi-day hike is symbolised with a person wearing a backpack. They are usually moderate to challenging.

© NZPocketGuide.com

2. Prepare for Hazards

New Zealand is known for having 4 seasons in a day, so it’s best to be prepared for all weather scenarios by having the right clothing. Check out Prepare for a Great Walk for clothing ideas. You can also prepare by researching the track you wish to take. Find out about natural hazards you might come across and how to deal with them, for example, how to deal with river crossings.

© NZPocketGuide.com

3. Know Some Survival Skills

Prepare for the worst! As grim as that sounds, it’s always a good idea to at least have a basic knowledge of outdoor safety. If you plan to stay in the wilderness for a long time, it is worth doing a first aid course and learning some outdoor survival skills Bear Grylls style. If you haven’t done a multi-day hike by yourself, grab a buddy to go with! It’s fun to share these experiences too.

© AmonGurlukh on Deviant Art

4. Take the Right Equipment

Take warm layers, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots or shoes, a map, compass, first aid kit, survival kit (whistle, knife, cord and firelighters) and a waterproofed and sealed tent. Energy-boosting food and water are good too.

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5. Plan Your Route

Choose a hiking track suitable for the skills and knowledge of yourself and/or who you are hiking with. Walking a DoC track is safe, as these are well signposted. Plan which huts and/or campsites you’ll use.

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6. Check Weather

The weather can change really quickly in New Zealand, so you should be prepared for different conditions. To mentally prepare, or decide whether you think it’s a good idea to go ahead with the hike, check MetService for the most accurate weather report for New Zealand.

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7. Let Someone Know Before Your Trip

Tell someone responsible about your trip intentions: where you’re hiking, time and date you leave for the hike, when you plan to return, who is going with you, and vehicle information. Don’t forget to inform your contact when you have completed the hike. There’s also a backcountry intention form to fill out at many of the multi-day walks, so fill these in too. You can also download the Outdoors Intentions Form at the AdventureSmart website with instructions on how to use it.

© adventuresmart.org.nz

8. Emergency Phone Numbers

In case of emergency (fire, search and rescue) phone 111. To report safety hazards or conservation emergencies phone the DOC hotline at 0800 364 468. And if you see a group of sick, injured or dead animals phone the Ministry for Primary Industries Exotic Pest and Disease hotline at 0800 90 99 66. More information on animal encounters can be found here.

Plus, see more important contacts and telephone numbers for travelling New Zealand here.

© New Zealand Defence Force on Wikipedia

9. Look After Yourself

Stick to your own ability, keep hydrated, keep warm, eat, have fun, take photos, and be an awesome backpacker.

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