Land Search and Rescue is a national volunteer organisation that assists the lost, missing and injured. Here are their tips for safe tramping.

Follow the Land Safety Code

Peter Zimmer, group and volunteer support for national parks, says Land Search and Rescue embraces the Land Safety Code. “My advice is to follow that,” he says. “Plan your trip, know what you have to take and check the weather. Make sure you tell someone where you’re going, be prepared, know your limits and take sufficient supplies.”

Do your research

Katie Brennan, group and volunteer support for Southern Lakes, says to research the terrain. “Tracks aren’t always well formed and can be steep and exposed. Some are boggy and covered in windfall and people risk falling, getting injured, or lost. It’s easy to become fatigued and disoriented.”

Brennan says some people read about routes on social media and attempt them without proper research. “Some tracks are seen as an easy day walk when they’re not,” she says. “People can get caught with longer days than expected.”

Prepare for all seasons

Weather can change quickly, especially in alpine environments. Brennan recommends being prepared for all seasons. “Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean it’s not going to rain. If it’s sunny at the bottom, don’t assume you won’t need extra clothing at the top or during your walk,” she says. “Temperatures can drop one degree every 100m of altitude, so if you’re going up 1000m, the temperature may drop 10 degrees. If there are no trees you won’t be able to see how windy it is.”

Learn about the weather

Alex Waterworth, group and volunteer support for Tararua Forest Park, agrees that the weather is the biggest factor to consider, even in summer. 

“Many areas in New Zealand are famous for four seasons in one day, especially the Tararua,” he says. “Most people doing multi-day tramps tend to err on the side of caution, but those going out for a long day can be caught out. The weather can go from sunny to -12⁰ and a blizzard at any time of the year.”

Waterworth recommends becoming familiar with the weather of the area to be visited and checking the forecast for the entire time you plan to be out. “There needs to be an ongoing assessment of what the weather is doing,” he says. “You might be expecting bad weather later in the day, but if it comes in early you could be caught off guard and need to change your plans. Make regular observations and have a contingency plan.”

Take a bothy bag and PLB

Waterworth also says a bothy bag (survival shelter) is a must. “Whether you’re a mountain runner or a multi-day tramper, a bothy bag is a quick shelter that’s easy to use and can provide respite from the conditions and prevent hypothermia.” 

He says if you do need rescuing, the biggest chance of success is to leave intentions and take a PLB. “If you’re overdue, intentions mean we know where to start looking. Stop, get in your bothy bag and sit in the middle of the track. You’ll be easier to find. If you get lost or start moving around, it becomes more difficult.”

Land Safety Code

1. Choose the right trip for you – learn about the route and make sure you have the requisite skills.

2. Understand the weather – it can change fast. Check the forecast and change plans if necessary.

3. Pack warm clothes and extra food – prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out.

4. Share your plans and know how to get help. Telling a trusted person your trip details and taking a distress beacon can save your life.

5. Take care of yourself and each other – eat, drink and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together.