Take Sufficient Supplies
Make sure you have enough food, equipment and emergency rations for the worst-case scenario. Take an appropriate means of communication.
If you ask any New Zealand adventurer they’ll tell you what should be in your pack, here’s a simple list of things we recommend you take. Of course, this list will change depending on where you might be going, how long you’re going for and the weather forecast, but use this as a minimum guide.
Clothing
- Good quality solid footwear –our tracks can be rough so wear closed toe sturdy footwear that you find comfortable – jandals/thongs/slippers aren’t a good idea on New Zealand tracks.
- Layer your clothing, but don’t wear cotton – thermals/fleece are a great idea because they stay warm when wet. Leave your cotton and denim behind as it won’t keep you warm when it's wet. Expect to get wet while in New Zealand's outdoors.
- A rain jacket is essential, the weather in New Zealand is changeable.
- Warm hat and gloves – even in summer, Kiwi trampers never leave home without these.
Watch How to dress for the outdoors
Find where you can get gear with our Outdoor Safety Retail Partners
Food and water
- Plenty of water unless you find a stream or walk past a hut you won’t find water so take enough for a full day out. At least 2L per person is a good place to start.
- Enough food to last an extra night out or an emergency situation.
Equipment
No matter how short your intended adventure is, you should always carry basic equipment to help you if something goes wrong. A basic overview of the kinds of items you need to consider:
- A comfortable pack and packliner/emergency shelter
- Communications
- First Aid Kit
- Torch/headtorch
- A way to navigate (map/compass/GPS)
- See our outdoor recreation guides for packing lists for each activity
Helpful hint:
Always test your equipment before you leave. There aren't user manuals or spare batteries in the bush.
Watch What goes in your First Aid Kit
Key resources
Watch videos on how to pack for the following activities:
Media Releases
Ready to go?
Go through our online Plan My Trip Tool where a full gear list according to your destination, season and activity to get you started!
Or continue learning and Enter the ToolBox >>
