Outdoor safety
New Zealand is a beautiful country with large and diverse areas of wilderness including mountains, forests (bush), islands, beaches and even a desert, to explore during your time here.
Yes, it’s great to get out and experience what New Zealand has to offer, however it is very important to know how to stay safe and correctly prepare for outdoor activities.
“Weather in New Zealand can change alarmingly quickly, so it’s important to always be prepared.”
Rosemary Sobrinski — US Study Abroad student
What you need to know
New Zealand is made up of a number of islands set in the vast Pacific Ocean. It has 10.1 million hectares of forests, covering 38% of the land. Across the entire country, weather conditions can change very quickly.
Whatever activity you plan on doing, check the weather forecast(external link that opens in a new tab) before you go.
Before you go on a trip, the New Zealand Outdoor Safety Code(external link that opens in a new tab) must be followed closely.
If you’re planning something more adventurous like an overnight hike, check out Safety when hiking/tramping in NZ (link to section).
TOP TIP: When going into the bush do not go alone. Take a buddy or join a group.
Water sports and activities, such as kayaking, water rafting, and fishing, are a big part of Kiwi life and there are lots of different activities to enjoy.
It is very important however to keep yourself safe when enjoying rivers, lakes and beaches – remember to always wear a lifejacket if you’re out on the water.
TOP TIP: Check out Staying safe around the water for more safety tips.
There are wonderful locations to ski and snowboard in New Zealand but remember, you are responsible for your own safety. Check out Ski New Zealand(external link that opens in a new tab) for more information about safety on the snow.
TOP TIP: Never skied before? Take some lessons and learn how to stay in control.
New Zealand sunlight can have high levels of ultraviolet radiation which causes skin and eye damage. It’s therefore important to take extra care to protect yourself from the sun, particularly between 10am and 4pm.
TOP TIP: Check out the New Zealand climate for more information on staying safe in the sun.
Safety when hiking/tramping in NZ
New Zealand is famous for its great walks, some being just for the day and others for much longer. Hiking can be risky so it is very important you follow guidelines to stay safe. Note that hiking is often called tramping in New Zealand.
Some top tips to help you stay safe while hiking in New Zealand:
Choose the right trip for you – learn about the route and consider if you have the required physical fitness and experience.
Tell people about your plans and when you will be back.
Always check the weather forecast(external link that opens in a new tab).
Pack warm clothes and extra food(external link that opens in a new tab) – prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out. Check out these tips(external link that opens in a new tab) from international student, Rosemary Sobrinski.
Share your plans and take ways to get help – you might not have mobile coverage so take a distress beacon(external link that opens in a new tab) as a precaution.
Rivers(external link that opens in a new tab) can be very dangerous – always be prepared to change your plans to avoid crossing a river.
Know your limits, and take care of yourself and each other – eat, drink, and rest, stay with your group and make decisions together.
Check out AdventureSmart New Zealand(external link that opens in a new tab) for more information on how to stay safe and enjoy the outdoors.
For more information check out these useful sites:
New Zealand Mountain Safety Council – Day walks(external link that opens in a new tab)
New Zealand Mountain Safety Council – Tramping video series(external link that opens in a new tab)
TOP TIP: Download the app and create an account with Plan My Walk(external link that opens in a new tab), where you can plan your walk, share plans with others, and receive notifications about weather warnings and forecasts.
Mahinga kai/Mahika kai, and hunting and fishing in New Zealand
Mahinga kai/mahika kai are Māori terms that relate to the traditional value of food resources and their ecosystems, as well as producing, gathering, and protecting these resources. Everyone, locals and visitors alike, has a part to play in protecting Mahinga kai/mahika kai(external link that opens in a new tab).
Some top tips if you are going fishing or hunting:
- If you want to fish in New Zealand, you’re legally required to follow fishing rules(external link that opens in a new tab).
- Fishing rules change and are different around the country(external link that opens in a new tab).
- Everyone who wants to go freshwater fishing or hunting in New Zealand must first buy a licence(external link that opens in a new tab).
- When hunting, you must follow hunter safety rules(external link that opens in a new tab).
- Always check or find out from locals what you can and cannot hunt or fish. This can vary from region to region.
Firearms
Before you go hunting, you’ll need to get a visitor firearms licence(external link that opens in a new tab). If you don’t have one, you can only use a firearm under the immediate supervision of a New Zealand licence firearms holder. Make sure you understand the New Zealand firearm laws(external link that opens in a new tab).
TOP TIP: Safety is very important when storing, handling or using a firearm. Consider a Firearms Safety Course(external link that opens in a new tab).
Earthquakes and tsunamis
New Zealand is an earthquake-prone country. Although they are frequent, only very few can be felt. If you do feel a large earthquake you should: drop, cover, hold.(external link that opens in a new tab)
An earthquake may trigger a tsunami – if the earthquake is big enough to knock you over and you’re near the coast make sure you get to high ground as quickly as possible.
Here are some useful sites to find out more about preparing for an earthquake:
Tip: If you are inside do not run outside because you may risk getting hit by falling bricks, concrete and glass. If you are outside, move away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines.