Hiking clothes
We suggest taking one set of clothing to walk in, the more that is taken, the more that must be carried. All of our lodges have hand washing and drying facilities so clothing can be washed and dried overnight.
Fabrics
For your safety and comfort while hiking, you must wear fabrics that are warm and quick drying such as merino wool, polypropylene, thermal, micro fleece and polar fleece. Cotton, silk and denim is not recommended for physical activity as when it gets wet, the fabric retains the moisture next to your skin which will make you cold and expose you to the risk of hypothermia.
Walking gear list
- Walking boots or sturdy shoes.
Broken in, preferably with ankle support. Please check your boot condition prior to coming to the pre-track briefing. Look especially at how well your sole is attached to the boot, to see if the glue is not drying out. Please also ensure that they are clean when coming through customs in New Zealand and adhere to all biosecurity notices at the airport. We do not sell walking boots/shoes in our retail outlet.
- Wool, polypropylene, or thermal base layer (top and bottom).
Fundamental clothing that can be worn either as a base layer or as a single layer.
- Fleece or merino wool jacket.
An ideal outer layer in cold weather.
- Waterproof raincoat
We can provide, see below.
- Long-sleeve wool, polypropylene, or thermal top.
Lightweight, warm and quick drying, this is an ideal layer to be worn on top of thermal base layer.
- T-shirt - wool, polypropylene or thermal.
Ideal for fine weather. Avoid cotton.
- Sunhat (with peak or brim) and wool/fleece hat.
Be prepared for sun and cold.
- Warm gloves
wool, polypropylene.
- Shorts/walking trousers.
Fast drying shorts, trousers or zip-off trousers (NOT JEANS or lycra/cotton leggings)
- Three pairs of hiking socks - merino wool or thermal.
Main consideration is warmth and comfort.
- Sunscreen, insect repellent
- Water bottle or bladder (1 litre capacity)
