Kepler

Walking Te Araroa alone

Te Araroa, New Zealand’s Trail is a walk of a lifetime to see and experience some of the most remote, diverse and stunning locations around Aotearoa. If you’re new to long distance-hiking or have some questions around safety and walking alone – we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to help.

Also, don’t forget to visit the Te Araroa website before you go.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes it is, however we encourage people to walk in pairs or small groups – it is important that all walkers carry a Personal Locator beacon, and ensure its called on your person – not at the bottom of your pack!

Can I trust a trail angel?

Yes you can, we are fortunate that we have many 100’s of trail angels across Aotearoa who are keen to help and support the walkers. We are currently working on a Trail Angel Policy that will further ensure trail angels can be trusted.

Am I safe to sleep outside alone?

Yes, however we encourage walkers to walk the trail with someone else or in small groups.

What happens if I get lost?

We ask that you try and relax, often when people get lost, they are not that far off the trail. We suggest that walkers use our Trail app that can be used for navigation. We also suggest walkers carry a compass. If you are unable to find your way back to the track we suggest you stay put, if you have cell phone coverage - call 111 and or activate your PLB.

What’s a PLB?

A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is a small emergency device that when activated, transmits a distress signal which is detected world-wide and relayed to the appropriate emergency services.

What happens if I fear for my safety?

Call 111 if you have cell phone coverage, (there are large sections of the trail that don’t have cell phone coverage) if you don’t have coverage, we suggest you activate your PLB.

What happens in an emergency?

We encourage all walkers to carry a PLB and Cell phone with battery pack, it is important that in the case of an emergency, the PLB is carried on your body so you can activate it. It’s no good in your pack if you happen to become separated from that pack. When you activate the PLB, a rescue helicopter will be sent to your location.

Am I fit enough to walk the trail?

You need at least a moderate level of fitness to attempt any thru tramp. The fitter you are the better chance you have of finishing.

 

Visit Te Araroa for more information.