Expect a difficult tramp
The Richmond Ranges Te Araroa route is widely considered one of the hardest parts of Te Araroa. It has very challenging terrain, including extreme alpine weather, many unbridged river crossings and steep drop-offs. Even in summer there can be snow, freezing temperatures and flooded rivers.
Read about the trip carefully and decide if it is right for you.
Understand if you are ready for the Richmond Ranges Alpine Route
Watch the NZ Mountain Safety Council’s walk-through video which takes you through how to prepare for this track. Including facilities, key decision points, hazards and typical conditions for the area.
Take your time and pack well
Some people pack light and try to walk the Richmond Ranges route very quickly – we strongly recommend that you do not do this, as it leaves no backup for if things go wrong.
Bad weather and high rivers are common, so you need to have spare food so you can wait for conditions to improve. Sometimes you might need to wait for several extra days. Carry enough food for at least 10 days.
There is nowhere to buy extra supplies along the way. You must be completely self-sufficient, including packing a distress beacon and an emergency shelter. You can hire or buy distress beacons (see locations).
Wear good shoes and go slowly near steep drops
Some sections need to be walked slowly as the track is rough and very close to cliff edges. Wear boots with good grip and take your time, as a fall can be fatal.
Be especially careful between Old Man Hut and Rintoul Hut, and between Mid Wairoa and Top Wairoa Huts.
Be cautious with rivers – if in doubt, don’t cross
There are many unbridged river crossings on the trip. After rain, even small side creeks can turn deadly. People have died crossing Richmond Ranges rivers.
It’s important to carry a tent or other emergency shelter, so you can wait if the river levels are up.
Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.
Skills you need
To do this trip, you should
- be fit enough to walk 6-8 hours a day for 10 days in rough, steep terrain
- have experience in backcountry alpine tramping, including in untracked areas and in bad weather – you need to be able to judge when the conditions are safe to proceed and when to wait at a hut, camp where you are, or turn back
- have navigation skills, eg are able to use GPS or a map and compass
- have good river crossing skills
- tramp with a companion – this is not recommended for solo tramping.
What to take
Weather changes quickly in the Richmond ranges, so pack for all conditions
Image: DOC
- warm and waterproof clothing is essential for the alpine environment
- sturdy boots and walking poles will help you avoid twisted ankles
- pack a tent and bedroll even if you plan to stay in huts – in case you don't get a bunk and for emergency shelter
- pack a distress beacon and leave your intentions in the hut books of all huts you pass (not just where you stay)
- water is scarce in summer – carry at least 3 litres per person and stay hydrated
- wasps are common between January and April, so pack antihistamines and consider carrying an EpiPen
- delays are likely, so pack extra food.