Tramping Tips

• Visit the Department of Conservation website, your local council or visitor centre for a list of tracks and walkways. DOC will also provide up-to-date information about track conditions.

• Start out on short trips and build up to longer ones. Choose trips that are suitable for your entire group; if you are too ambitious you may put younger group members off tramping forever.

• Taking the right clothing and equipment is a priority. You need protection from the sun and also to be prepared for the worst possible weather.

• Always carry a parka as you can quickly become miserable if a cold wind comes up or it starts to rain. Warm polypropylene or fleece clothing is also recommended.

• Look after your feet. While sports shoes are okay for some tracks, tramping boots are necessary for others. They need to be worn- in before a trip. Tape your feet if you are doing a substantial trip or if you are prone to blisters.

• Food is important for energy so pack plenty of snacks in addition to your lunch.

• Everyone should carry their own water bottle.

• Leave a MSC Backcountry Intentions Form, detailing where you are going and when you are due out, with family or friends and don't forget to let them know of your safe return.

• Free MSC resources are downloadable online: www.mountainsafety.org.nz

Enquire about the Going Bush? and Survival pamphlets, and the Backcountry Intentions Form.

Camping care code

• Be a careful camper and practice ‘no trace' camping.

• Choose your campsite carefully; set up your camp on firm, high or sandy ground. Only camp in designated areas. Please do not camp where camping is not permitted.

• Be tidy and always leave campsites clean. Take your rubbish with you if bins are not provided. Food scraps attract vermin.

• Use a cooker, fireplace or BBQ. Light fires only where permitted, collect dead wood and keep the fire small. Soak the fire with water before you go.

• Detergents, soap and toothpaste can harm aquatic and marine life. Use biodegradable products and wash in a container well away from the water.

• Always use toilets provided. There are toilets at all DOC campsites. When camping elsewhere follow the environmental care guidance provided at www.camping.org.nz

• Motorhome or campervan users - please always dispose of waste at official dumpstations. If you don't have a toilet onboard, please camp where there are toilet facilities. Do not dispose of waste in public places.

• Campgrounds are social places but everyone needs some rest and relaxation. Please respect the rights of others for quiet enjoyment of the outdoors.

• Pay your fees to help keep campsites available in the future.

• Always thoroughly clean your equipment before and after trips to minimise spreading weeds and diseases.

• Protect native plants and animals.

• Toitu te whenua/leave the land undisturbed.