Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Work smarter with a Pro licence Learn More

Gordon Campbell | Parliament TV | Parliament Today | News Video | Crime | Employers | Housing | Immigration | Legal | Local Govt. | Maori | Welfare | Unions | Youth | Search

 

Plan to stay safe in the outdoors this Waitangi weekend

Plan to stay safe in the outdoors this Waitangi weekend

04 February 2015 - The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is encouraging people to consider what they need to know before they head out this Waitangi weekend.

MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley said Waitangi weekend was an ideal time for families to go on a day or overnight trip.

“We love hearing stories of families having a great time exploring the New Zealand outdoors, but it’s important they consider some important details before setting off – an adventure with children doesn’t have to be hard but it does require a bit more thought.

“Kids will always want more snacks and water than adults - and they need it to boost their energy. Just like adults, ensure they are wearing layers and sturdy footwear suitable to the terrain.”

Making sure someone outside your group knows your destination and when to expect you back should also be a routine part of your trip preparation, Mr Daisley said.

“Leaving your intentions with somebody is critical, and it doesn’t have to be time consuming. Simply writing down your intended route and when you plan on returning, then passing this to a trusted contact is all that is needed. The Outdoors Intentions form on the Adventuresmart website can help with this.”

Even during a run of golden weather like we've had this summer, New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, with high temperatures just as much of an issue as strong winds or sudden downpours. It’s best to plan for these situations rather than being caught off guard by a change in the weather, Mr Daisley said.

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading

Are you getting our free newsletter?

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.

“Even if you’re planning for an easy day walk, you never know what might change so consider some extra snacks, water and a head torch, just in case. Wind and water proof layers are also essential, regardless of how good the weather might look.”

Mr Daisley said it was important to make sure the whole family knew what to do in an emergency, and to have the right equipment on hand in case there was a problem. He suggested people check out the MSC website www.mountainsafety.org.nz for safety tips and resources to help plan for their journey.

“Whether you’re taking the family on a day walk, heading a little further afield for a few nights tramping, clocking up some kilometres on your mountain bike or in your trail running shoes this Waitangi weekend, remember the five simple rules of the Outdoor Safety Code – plan your trip, tell someone your plans, be aware of the weather, know your limits and take sufficient supplies.”

ends

© Scoop Media

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading
 
 
 
Parliament Headlines | Politics Headlines | Regional Headlines


Gordon Campbell: On The US Opposition To Mortgage Interest Deductibility For Landlords


Should landlords be able to deduct the interest on the loans they take out to bankroll their property speculation? The US Senate Budget Committee and Bloomberg News don't think this is a good idea, for reasons set out below. Regardless, our coalition government has been burning through a ton of political capital by giving landlords a huge $2.9 billion tax break via interest deductibility, while still preaching the need for austerity to the disabled, and to everyone else...
More


 
 

Government: Concerns Conveyed To China Over Cyber Activity
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has confirmed New Zealand’s concerns about cyber activity have been conveyed directly to the Chinese Government. “The Prime Minister and Minister Collins have expressed concerns today about malicious cyber activity... More

ALSO:


Government: GDP Decline Reinforces Government’s Fiscal Plan

Declining GDP for the December quarter reinforces the importance of restoring fiscal discipline to public spending and driving more economic growth, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says... More

ALSO:


Government: Humanitarian Support For Gaza & West Bank

Winston Peters has announced NZ is providing a further $5M to respond to the extreme humanitarian need in Gaza and the West Bank. “The impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict on civilians is absolutely appalling," he said... More


Government: New High Court Judge Appointed

Judith Collins has announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister Jason Scott McHerron as a High Court Judge. Justice McHerron graduated from the University of Otago with a BA in English Literature in 1994 and an LLB in 1996... More

 
 
 
 
 
 

LATEST HEADLINES

  • PARLIAMENT
  • POLITICS
  • REGIONAL
 
 

InfoPages News Channels


 
 
 
 

Join Our Free Newsletter

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.