An unbridged river on your hike: when to turn back
Plan around unbridged rivers, check upstream rain and choose a practical backup before unsafe water forces a decision.
Read more... : An unbridged river on your hike: when to turn backOutside in Aotearoa
ReGear Journal
What's happening outdoors around New Zealand. Track updates, mountain news and good reasons to get out there.
Hikes & walks
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Stories in this collection
Contour lines explained: seeing hills on a topographic map
Read contour spacing, height and Topo50 scale to understand the hills ahead and make better sense of a walking map.
Read more... : Contour lines explained: seeing hills on a topographic map
Offline hiking maps: set up your phone before leaving home
Download and test hiking maps offline, protect your phone's power and keep a navigation backup for places without reception.
Read more... : Offline hiking maps: set up your phone before leaving home
Planning hiking time: build in stops and a turnaround point
Build a walking timetable with stages, stops and a clear turnaround, leaving room for slower progress and the journey back.
Read more... : Planning hiking time: build in stops and a turnaround point
DOC track grades: what easy, intermediate and advanced mean
Understand DOC's six track categories and compare terrain, distance and skills before choosing a suitable New Zealand walk.
Read more... : DOC track grades: what easy, intermediate and advanced mean
Using walking poles: length, rhythm and when to stow them
Adjust walking poles for the ground, check their locks and practise a comfortable rhythm before taking them on a longer walk.
Read more... : Using walking poles: length, rhythm and when to stow them
How to organise a hiking pack so it carries well
Pack a hiking backpack for balance and easy access, place heavy items thoughtfully and test the full load before leaving.
Read more... : How to organise a hiking pack so it carries well
Food for a day hike: simple meals, snacks and a backup
Plan practical food for day walks and overnight trips, with accessible snacks, simple meals and a separate backup supply.
Read more... : Food for a day hike: simple meals, snacks and a backup
How to clean and dry walking boots without damaging them
Clean and dry walking footwear without damaging it, choose model-appropriate care products and spot small repairs before they get worse.
Read more... : How to clean and dry walking boots without damaging them
Hiking boots or trail shoes: choosing for the track
Compare hiking boots and trail shoes for terrain, load and comfort, then make fit and condition the deciding factors.
Read more... : Hiking boots or trail shoes: choosing for the track
Merino or synthetic base layers for NZ hiking?
Compare merino and synthetic base layers for drying, odour and durability, with simple fit checks before your next outdoor trip.
Read more... : Merino or synthetic base layers for NZ hiking?
Hiking pants: fabric, stretch and weather protection explained
Choose hiking trousers by fabric, fit and movement, and understand why water-repellent fabric is different from waterproof rainwear.
Read more... : Hiking pants: fabric, stretch and weather protection explained