Planning Key for Safe Tramps This King’s Birthday Weekend
Media Release
NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is reminding hikers and hunters that small mistakes in winter can escalate quickly, making careful planning essential, even for short trips this King’s Birthday weekend.
“A walk that feels straightforward in summer can quickly become dangerous in winter,” says MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley. “Strong winds, heavy rain and snow aren’t the only winter hazards – slippery terrain, cold temperatures and limited daylight can just as easily catch people out.”
Research your trip carefully and check the weather and track conditions before you head off. Tracks that may have been within your abilities in summer may no longer be suitable.
– says DaisleyIt’s time to put alpine tracks on hold, unless you have the specialised gear and skills to manage snow, ice and avalanche terrain.
"There are still plenty of great winter walks that can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities. Winter is a fantastic time to explore coastal tracks, and you may spot native marine wildlife like kekeno/fur seals."
Start early and allow extra time, as winter trips often take longer than expected due to track conditions. In case you get delayed, always carry a headtorch, an emergency shelter, extra food and a reliable communications device.
As part of your planning, MSC encourages people to set decision-making points.
“Decision-making points are places where you plan to stop and assess how everyone is doing, the current conditions and how much daylight you’ve got left,” says Daisley. “Talk through your options as a group and decide whether it’s safe to continue or time to turn back.”
MSC recommends using Plan My Walk, its free app and website, to research trips and check conditions. It includes track information, MetService weather forecasts and warnings, official track alerts, and recent user reviews and photos.
Even on shorter trips, people need to be prepared for changing conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds and cold temperatures. Always pack a waterproof and windproof jacket, extra warm layers, a warm hat, and gloves.
When choosing clothing, opt for wool, fleece or polypro fabrics rather than cotton.
“When cotton gets wet, it pulls heat away from your body, increasing the risk of hypothermia, and it’s almost impossible to dry, especially in winter,” says Daisley.
Daisley encourages people to make the most of winter walks safely.
“Dress warmly, pack plenty of food, and take a hot drink to help keep you warm and energised. A flask of hot Raro is always a crowd-pleaser.”
Find out more
- Trip planning | Use Plan My Walk, our free trip planning tool, to choose tracks, build a gear list, getalertsand share trip plans
- New Zealand Land Safety Code | An easy-to-follow, five-point safety guide covering practical advice and tips for every trip
- Weather skills | Be prepared for all weather on your next tramp or hike
PHOTO CREDIT | Laura Bingham, Plan My Walk | Brewster Track