– History:
– Alpine climbing has been a recreational activity since early European settlement in New Zealand.
– Tracks, huts, and bridges were built in forested areas to support hunters culling introduced deer species.
– Tramping became popular among locals and foreign tourists over the years.
– Tramping clubs were established in various towns, cities, and universities.
– Some clubs own buses to transport members to tracks.
– Tramping tracks:
– New Zealand has a network of tramping tracks of varying lengths and difficulties.
– Some tracks cross private land, while major tracks are on public land managed by the Department of Conservation.
– Notable tracks include the ten Great Walks and the Te Araroa trail.
– Huts:
– New Zealand has over 950 backcountry huts operated by the Department of Conservation.
– Some huts on public land are privately owned for commercial tourism.
– Majority of the huts were built by the New Zealand Forest Service for deer culling.
– There is a strong culture of hut etiquette among experienced trampers.
– Huts are generally open to the public and their condition relies on user care.
– Environmental care code:
– The Department of Conservation promotes a 10-point checklist for minimizing environmental impact.
– Key points include protecting plants and animals, removing rubbish, and burying toilet waste.
– Keeping streams and lakes clean, using portable fuel stoves over fires, and camping carefully are emphasized.
– Respecting cultural heritage and enjoying the outdoor experience responsibly are part of the code.
– The code emphasizes leaving no trace and taking nothing but pictures.
– See also:
– New Zealand has a variety of protected areas including national parks, forest parks, and regional parks.
– The country values conservation efforts and offers opportunities for camping.
– The importance of respecting cultural heritage and enjoying outdoor experiences responsibly is highlighted.
Tramping, known elsewhere as backpacking, rambling, hill walking or bushwalking, is a popular activity in New Zealand.
Tramping is defined as a recreational activity involving walking over rough country. Trampers often carry a backpack and wet-weather gear, and may also carry equipment for cooking and sleeping.