What do I need to bring?
It is important that you are prepared for any weather conditions whilst on the track, and if you stick to the equipment list below your pack shouldn't weigh more than 5-7 kgs.
The following is a list of essential equipment that you are required to bring and carry on your walk.
Many items can be purchased from the Ultimate Hikes Centre in Queenstown to reduce the need for you to carry them throughout your holiday.
Items that can be supplied free of charge by Ultimate Hikes can be collected at the pre-track briefing. There are plenty of backpacks for use so they do not need to be reserved. You can provide your own if preferred.
It is important that you are prepared for any weather conditions whilst on the track, and if you stick to the equipment list below your pack shouldn't weigh more than 5-7 kgs.
To walk in
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
We suggest you wear fabrics that are lightweight but warm and quick drying such as merino wool, polypropylene, thermal, micro fleece and polar fleece. Most items on the recommended clothing list are available to purchase at the Ultimate Hikes Centre. Cotton is not recommended for physical activity as when it gets wet, the fabric retains the moisture next to your skin and can make you feel cold.
- 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.
- 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
- Long-sleeved top: lightweight, warm and quick drying, this is an ideal layer to be worn on top of thermal base layer
- T-shirt: ideal for fine weather, please avoid cotton
- Sunhat, warm hat, gloves (be prepared for sun and cold)
- Shorts/walking trousers: fast drying shorts, trousers or zip-off trousers (NOT JEANS)
- Three pairs of merino wool or thermal socks: the main consideration is warmth and comfort
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Water bottle or bladder (1 litre capacity)
- Credit card & some cash
- Reusable lunchbox
In the Lodge
A change of clothes is recommended for the lodges and for sleeping in. Remember the more that is taken, the heavier the pack is to carry. The nights may be cold so a warm change of clothing is recommended.
- Shirt or long sleeved top
- Sweater/jersey
- Lightweight trousers
- Lightweight shoes
- Nightwear
- Personal toiletries (soap, shampoo and conditioner are provided)
- Change of underwear
Optional
The optional list is still highly recommended to include - particularly walking poles which can be hired from the Ultimate Hikes Centre. Other items such as gaiters and rain pants are personal choice items that can be useful.
- Walking poles. We strongly advise all walkers use two walking poles, especially if you have difficulty walking up or down gradients. Leki poles are available for hire ($25 a pair) or purchase from the Ultimate Hikes Centre.
- Waterproof over trousers. We strongly advise walkers to carry lightweight over trousers for rain and wind protection.
- Gaiters, for extra foot protection in wet weather
- Swim suit
- Spare laces
- Sealable plastic bags
Extras/useful items
- Foot fleece/second skin
- Strapping tape
- Lip balm
- Ear plugs
- Small torch
- Reusable face mask/covering
We can supply:
The following items can be borrowed and collected from the Ultimate Hikes Centre at no extra charge - though you may wish to bring your own. We have plenty in stock so there's no need to reserve them.
- Backpack and liner (weighs approximately 2kgs empty)
- PVC waterproof raincoat with hood, no pockets. (weighs approximately 1kg)
- Cotton sleep sheet (weighs approximately 500gms). Required for multi share rooms - these are supplied at the lodges and must be carried on the Greenstone section of the Grand Traverse only
Watch the video to see what we suggest you pack to walk in on track.
