Exactly what I was looking for but couldn’t find on my own. Jan, UK

It was a fantastic trip and I learnt a lot - tramping, river crossing, Maori history, kiwi chocolate. Bruno, Italy

Outdoor tip

Are you a hot head? A great way to cool down if you are honking up a steep mountain side in warm weather is to plunge your head in to a cold mountain stream, shake like a dog and then continue on your way. As so much heat leaves your body via your head, you will cool off really quickly (this is why when its wet and cold you should wear a warm hat).No worries now mate.

I had a great time, fantastic trip, well organised.
Moira, UK

Environmental Care

Protect plants and animals

Treat New Zealand's forests and birds with care and respect. They are unique and often rare.

Bury toilet waste

In areas without toilet facilities, bury your toilet waste in a shallow hole well away from waterways, tracks, campsites and huts. This helps to stop the spread of Giardia.

Keep streams and lakes clean

When cleaning and washing, take the water and wash well away from the water source. Because soaps and detergents are harmful to water-life, drain used water into the soil to allow it to be filtered. If you suspect the water may be contaminated - boil it for at least three minutes, filter it, or chemically treat it.

Take care with fires

Portable fuel stoves are less harmful to the environment and are more efficient than fires. If you do use a fire, keep it small, use only dead wood, and make sure it is out by dousing it with water and checking the ashes before leaving.

Camp carefully

When camping, leave no trace of your visit.

Keep to the track

By keeping to the track, where one exists, you lessen the chance of damaging fragile plants.

Consider others

People enjoy the backcountry and rural areas for many reasons. Be considerate of other visitors who also have a right to enjoy the natural environment.

Respect our cultural heritage

Many places in New Zealand have a spiritual and historical significance. Treat these places with consideration and respect.

Enjoy your visit

Enjoy your outdoors experience. Take a last look before leaving an area; will the next visitor know that you have been there?

Toitu te whenua

Leave the land undisturbed.