The genesis for the country’s newest tramping club was at the local pub, when four mates discussed the possibility over a beer.

The result is the Hokitika Tramping Club, and it’s already proving popular with interest from more than 200 people. The club’s president Brent Robinson said the club was officially formed in late February at the first annual general meeting. “The seeds were first planted halfway through 2022, when four future members, including me, began discussions at the pub.”

Recently the club has held overnight trips to Lake Kaniere Scenic Reserve’s Mt Brown Hut; Victoria Forest Park’s Lake Christabel; and Big River.

Robinson said the club was formed to help the local community get outdoors safely and learn skills from experienced trampers. There are currently over 230 members on Facebook and 10 official paid members so far.

“We are blessed on the West Coast to have so many tramping and recreational opportunities 20 minutes drive from our homes. For some, getting outdoors for the first time can be a daunting challenge and the Hokitika Tramping Club hopes to help with that.”