Date:  30 October 2024

DOC’s seasonal experiences (including Milford, Kepler, Routeburn, Tongariro Northern Circuit and Whanganui Journey Great Walks) open across October and November for the peak summer season that runs from now until the end of April.

DOC Heritage and Visitor Director Catherine Wilson, shares her top advice for all those planning to get into nature over the next few months, whether on a Great Walk, a day hike or somewhere further off the beaten track.

“Spring is a beautiful but unsettled time in the outdoors. Rivers can rise quickly from rain or snowmelt and avalanche danger can continue through spring and early summer.

“We’re keen to ensure outdoor adventures are truly memorable experiences for all the right reasons. We also want people to be mindful that, as it gets busier, their behaviour can make all the difference for our species and places.

“DOC’s website and visitor centres hold important safety information for anyone preparing to head out. Those planning tramping trips should check the latest weather and safety information, pack the right gear with extra layers and plenty of food and water, and let others know where they are going and when they expect to return.

“We ask people to help protect the land, water and wildlife in the natural areas they visit – give wildlife space, never feed the birds, use toilets provided and take litter away with them or put it in a bin.”

“We’re also reminding people of the importance of paying their hut and campsite fees to make a fair contribution and help keep these facilities available in future. Visitors paying the New Zealand rate on the Great Walks will need to carry proof of ‘ordinary residency’ to show rangers and visitor centres.

Catherine Wilson says bookings are looking promising for the coming season with Great Walks bookings up 19% on the same time last year.

“Milford, Routeburn and Kepler are close to or at capacity, but there is still plenty of space available across the network of 11 walks.

“International bookings are similar to last year accounting for approximately 25% of all bednights.

And it’s not just Great Walks people should plan ahead and book for this season, says Catherine Wilson.

“DOC will be continuing with a free booking system for Tongariro Alpine Crossing as we work to manage visitor pressures and safety on this popular day hike.

“Bookings for huts and campsites outside of the Great Walks, are very strong this year, up 40% on the same time last year as weather-damaged facilities re-open and additional popular facilities become bookable.”

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