Catch Them All - Hunting Pokemon In The Great Outdoors

Catch Them All - Hunting Pokemon In The Great Outdoors

With the rise of augmented reality app 'Pokemon GO', outdoor safety advocates the Mountain Safety Council are concerned that gamers may head into increasingly remote regions unprepared. CEO Mike Daisley is keen to remind players to stay safe.

"If you're serious about 'catching them all' says Daisley, then you need to be in for the long haul."

"You're not going to win this game overnight, and if you get caught out unprepared overnight in winter the consequences are very real."

Asked if he had any tips for finding rare items, Daisley was tight-lipped about his strategy.

"I've got a few spots in mind in the hills around Wellington that would be great places for a Pikachu. We'll see what happens."

Amused that a game has taken over the hearts and minds of the public, Daisley said he'd be signing up soon.

"Honestly, I never expected to be talking about outdoor safety in a gaming context yet here we are."

"I think its great people are out exploring, and I might have a go myself with the kids this weekend."

Concerned that the consequences of decisions made in a virtual world could be felt in the real world, Daisley has a simple message for games.

"I guess just don't loose sight of the real world consequences of cars, cliffs and exposure."

"Some of these may be hidden in mountains and in caves and lakes so you need to prepare for the real world consequences."

"There is no reset button on real life, especially if you're phone battery dies. Follow the outdoor safety code so you make it back."

ENDS

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