ReGear buyer guide

Choosing gear for a New Zealand day walk

Start with the route and conditions, then choose footwear, layers, a pack and essentials that suit the day.

Plan the trip before choosing the kit Updated for ReGear NZ

There is no single kit list for every New Zealand day walk. A formed coastal path, exposed alpine route and muddy bush track can need very different skills and gear. Plan the trip first, then use the guidance below to identify useful categories.

Start with the route and conditions

Check the official track description, duration, grade, alerts and access information. Check the forecast close to departure and be ready to change the plan. NZ Mountain Safety Council's Plan My Walk combines track information, alerts, weather and a customisable gear list; it remains a planning tool, not a guarantee of safety.

Tell a trusted person your plans and expected return, and choose a route that suits the least experienced person in the group.

Footwear

Choose comfortable footwear that suits the surface, distance, weather and load. Check tread, fit, fastening and recorded wear. A short formed day walk may call for lighter footwear than a rough, wet backcountry route.

Browse current hiking gear and read how to size second-hand hiking boots.

Layers and rain protection

Conditions can change quickly. Carry layers you can add or remove, plus a waterproof and windproof outer layer when the route and forecast require it.

Check actual garment measurements, zip and seam condition and any waterproofness claim recorded for the individual item. A brand or fabric label alone does not prove current waterproof performance.

Pack and essentials

Use a pack that holds the day's essentials securely without overloading you. Depending on the walk, season and group, that may include water, food, warm layers, rain gear, sun protection, a first-aid kit, navigation, a head torch, emergency shelter and a suitable way to call for help.

DOC's official walking and tramping gear lists and the Plan My Walk gear-list tool should guide planning for the specific trip. Check whether water is available and safe, and carry more when resupply is uncertain.

Browse current camping and hiking gear.

Before leaving

Recheck weather, alerts and daylight
Inspect the actual gear you will carry
Charge devices and pack spare power where suitable
Keep critical items easy to reach and dry
Share the plan and know the turnaround point
Leave the trip for another day if conditions, equipment or experience do not line up

Second-hand gear does not change the planning standard. Buy early enough to check fit, condition and compatibility before the trip, and arrange a qualified assessment where safety-critical equipment is involved.