When you see someone putting on big boots, you can be sure adventure is about to happen.
Winnie the Pooh

When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.
Susan Heller

My favourite was the activities, the people and enough time to relax and laugh a lot.
Nathalie, Denmark

Recommended Equipment

See our Equipment hire page if you need to hire gear.

Hiking boots

On safari, we sometimes hike exclusively off-track so strong trekking boots are essential. They should reach above the ankle and provide good support. They should also have a strong rubber sole with a chunky grip. It’s not important for your boots to be waterproof (we often cross rivers or streams so they will be wet anyway). For safety reasons, it’s best to wear hiking boots on river crossings. Make sure you break in your boots before you come. If you haven’t used your boots for a while make sure you test them out. Your feet can get bigger when you have been walking around Australia in flip-flops for the last 3 months! Gaiters can stop mud and small stones getting in your boots but they are not essential.

Sleeping bags

Lightweight down sleeping bags are fantastic. They can weigh as little as a kilogram and be very compact. Synthetic fibre bags are bulky and heavier but considerably cheaper to buy. If you are serious about hiking, we recommend you buy a down bag. We rent out high-quality down sleeping bags.

Backpack

Before you buy a backpack, make sure it is comfortable, particularly when you put some weight in it. Your pack should hold at least 60 litres (you will be required to carry about 2-3kg of food). Even quality backpacks are not waterproof so you should stow your gear in large plastic bags inside your pack. Learn how to pack your backpack properly, with heavy stuff up high and closest to your back. Ask an expert how to adjust your pack properly. It makes a world of difference to how much you will enjoy your hiking.

Raincoat

The weather in New Zealand is very changeable and it can bucket-down with rain. It is very important that you have a good waterproof raincoat. We highly recommend raincoats made from Goretex or similar breathable fabric. They make hiking in extreme conditions considerably more comfortable. A PVC/plastic raincoat will do the job too.

Warm clothing

Synthetic polar fleece and polypropylene clothing is great for hiking, as it is lightweight and remains warm when it’s wet (it wicks moisture away from your skin thereby keeping you warmer). Wool also stays warm when wet. Long woollen or polypropylene underwear is effective and compact. A warm hat will prevent heat loss from your head and make sitting around campfires more pleasant. When hiking, it is best to wear shorts (or long, light synthetic hiking trousers if you want to protect your legs). Jeans are not suitable in the outdoors as they are heavy and get wet easily.