In the “Exploring nature with children booklet

All trips go better with a bit of planning – whether it’s a walk down the road or in a forest. If you’re planning a walk in the back country, choose your walk carefully. Don’t try and do too much. Think about it from your child’s perspective.

Ensure you and your family/friends have a safe and enjoyable expedition by planning ahead of time and taking the necessary supplies.

A Kiwi Ranger. Photo: DOC/Sarah Mankelow.
A child ready for adventure

Be prepared

  • Wear practical clothes and footwear.
  • Know the weather forecast and be prepared for it to change – have raincoats and warm clothes.
  • Have some spare clothes to change into just in case.
  • Always make sure you keep your kids well fed and watered and have a steady supply of snacks no matter how long you’re going to be. Pack wholesome and filling food to sustain energy levels. A few surprise treats can help lift flagging spirits. 
  • Pack a first-aid kit. Make sure you have plasters for cuts and scrapes; antiseptic for minor cuts and antihistamine for stings and bites and of course, sun block.

Prepare your own adventure kit

  • Magnifying glasses and binoculars
  • Bug boxes – these have magnifying lids to closely inspect what you find
  • Sieves or nets for catching insects or looking at stream-life
  • Identification or field guides - (NZ author Andrew Crowe has an excellent series of guides available from most book stores)
  • Scarves for playing blind-fold games
  • Paper and pens and pencils
  • Camera
  • Whistle
  • Compass and a map
  • A tiny trowel and toilet paper
  • A plastic bag for rubbish
Back to top