Prepare
Have the right skills and knowledge
You need to have well-developed skills for backcountry adventure. Know about where you are going. Find out about the types and severity of natural hazards you might encounter and how to deal with them.
River crossing
Make well-informed decisions about risks to yourself and others in your care.
- Develop bushcraft and outdoor first aid skills, and learn how to recognise and cope with survival situations. The NZMSC offers training courses.
- Read outdoor safety and survival publications.
- Be aware of the causes and symptoms of hypothermia and know how to treat it.
- Travel with and learn from skilled and experienced people, or go with a licensed tour operator.
- Treat rivers with respect. Attend river safety training if your trip involves river crossings.
- Join a tramping or mountaineering club trip.
- Special skills and equipment are needed for New Zealand's unique alpine conditions. Seek expert local guidance and information before an alpine trip.
- Consider hiring a NZ Mountain Guide Association guide.