For these three trampers, private walks are an excellent opportunity to immerse themselves in nature. They also make tramping easier by carrying a lighter pack and more enjoyable by having an entire hut just for your group.
Missed yesterday’s feature? Have an adventure close to home on this Christchurch trail.
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Mental Shortcuts in the Outdoors: ‘Well, if they’re doing it …’
Part 2 of NZ Mountain Safety Council's six-part series on mental shortcuts – or heuristic traps – explores social proof.
Learn how we can be influenced by what we see others doing in the outdoors, and how this can increase our risk. Gain practical tips to avoid this trap.
Watch on YouTube.
Brought to you by NZ Mountain Safety Council
Quiz
You have been tramping in moderate temperatures. A steep climb has made you sweat. In the last half hour, a warm wind has sprung up. You notice that one of your group members has started to stumble and mumble. They are shivering although you are still sweating. Their skin is pale and cold. Which is the best option in relation to their condition?
A - Hypothermia is unlikely as it is too warm, and you are hot and sweaty.
B - Hypothermia is unlikely as they have not been exposed to the wind long enough.
C - This could be the early stages of hyperthermia.
D - This could be the early stages of hypothermia.
E - This is most likely to be a fever.
Scroll to the bottom of this email for the answer…
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SKILLS CHECK: You have checked the weather, now what?
DOC and apps like Plan My Walk can help trampers determine if they need to change their plan. Photo: Caleb Smith
Before heading out, you should check the weather forecast. But what do you do with the information you learn?
Read more to learn some of the things you need to consider before continuing with your trip based on recent weather and the forecast for before, during and after the adventure.
Current Issue - Oct 2026
Circling NZ’s sleeping giant, 22 walks across private land, applications open for the 2027 Shaun Barnett Memorial Scholarship, ultralight gear reviews, gear guides, the best places for field testing your lightweight kit and dozens more stories in our latest issue.
Tramping calendar
See our list of upcoming tramping events and activities across the motu. If you have an event you want to feature, email the details!
2 Sept - 21 Oct: Women’s Adventure Film Tour 2026
Location: Multiple locations
The Women’s Adventure Film Tour® (WAFT) returns for its eight year, celebrating extraordinary women and their thrilling adventures. Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled showcase of courage and triumph that will ignite your spirit. Don’t miss this unforgettable adventure! More info.
18 to 26 Sep: Climate Action Festival 2026
Location: All over Nelson
Be part of a week of inspiration, education, fun and collaboration as we explore a regenerative and low-emissions future together. The theme for this year’s Festival is Our Place, Our Power. The 2026 Climate Action Festival is about returning to our place. Our Tūrangawaewae is where we stand empowered and connected. More info.
24-25 Sep: Adaptive Adventure Film Festival
Location: Bivouac Outdoor 6pm and Braintree Wellness Centre at 2:30pm
For many living with disabilities, a life of adventure in the outdoors can feel far from reach. The Adaptive Adventure Film Festival, run by Mastering Mountains Charitable Trust, exists to challenge perceptions of what’s possible, advocate for inclusivity in the outdoors, and prove that an adventurous life remains within reach, no matter a person’s abilities. This year we are thrilled to show six stunning and powerful films. The films, spanning rafting, snow sports, climbing, and mountain biking, speak to the importance of the outdoors, the importance of community, and the power of hope. More info.
26-27 Sep: Children's Practical Bushcraft
Location: Waitakere Ranges
Come and experience an overnight stay in the Waitakere Ranges at the Alpine Sports Club hut. Have fun with your host, Sue, making bush bivvies, map reading, and compass navigation. There will even be time to roast some marshmallows. This is an ASC members-only event. More info.
3 Oct: Outdoor Training NZ River Safety
Location: The Willows, West Melton
Rivers are one of the greatest hazards in the New Zealand outdoors - learn how to read a river and where the best place to cross is. More info.
3 Oct: The Prolific birdlife of Ōtari Wilton’s Bush
Location: Tāne Whakapiripiri, Wellington
Join in on this walk for the opportunity to learn about the birds of Ōtari in the company of one of New Zealand’s leading experts. Hugh Robertson is the author of the definitive Field Guide to the Birds of New Zealand, DOC’s leading exponent on native birds, a self-confessed ‘bird-nerd’ and a regular Ōtari visitor. Take a short circuit walk to the Troup Lawn and back with Hugh calling up the birds and sharing information about them and their status. More info.
8 Oct: Aarn Pack Party
Location: MD Outdoors, Nelson, 5:30pm
Curious about Aarn Packs? Join us for an evening to discover what makes these unique New Zealand-designed packs so comfortable on the trail. Try on a range of Aarn packs, see the latest models, and get expert advice on finding the right fit. Already own an Aarn pack? Bring it along and ask any questions you have. More info.
10 & 11 Oct: OTNZ River Safety - Auckland branch
Location: Karangahake Gorge
This course is designed for hikers – to help plan for journeys that may involve rivers and bodies of water; to develop river safety skills, including hazard assessment and river crossing techniques. More info.
17 & 18 Oct: OTNZ Canterbury Bushcraft Course
Location: Craigieburn Trails
This course will endeavor to develop your personal practical skills to use in the bush by experiencing the outdoors with qualified instructors. More info.
5 Nov: Learn about the rescue with Westpac Rescue Helicopter
Location: 17 George Bolt Drive, Lyall Bay, 10:30am
Learn what happens when a PLB is set off, when a 111 call is made. Talk with the crew about what is needed from us when they are responding to a call out. The visit starts with a 20-minute talk from the Westpac Helicopter staff, then an opportunity to look over the helicopter and talk with the crew.
5 Nov: Outdoor Training New Zealand Auckland Branch meeting
Location: Point Chevalier Tennis Club, Auckland
The Auckland branch of OTNZ has an active committee, a manageable course schedule, and holds two monthly evening meetings to introduce new topics of interest and engage with the wider membership. More info.
7 Nov: OTNZ Canterbury Navigation Course
Location: Awaroa/Godley Head
This course will endeavour to develop your personal practical skills and prepare you for tramping safely in the outdoors, led by qualified instructors. More info.
Quiz
Answer D - This could be the early stages of hypothermia.
This person is showing signs of the early stages of hypothermia. The three environmental conditions leading to it are cold, wet and wind. Generally, one of these conditions are ok, but having two of these conditions multiplies the chances of hypothermia. The danger is greatest when all three occur together.
The onset can be very quick; half an hour exposed to the wind is easily enough time. If they are fatigued, hungry, injured or fighting an illness, they won’t have the energy to keep themselves warm.
Quiz provided by Heather Grady from Outdoor Training New Zealand.
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