Evolution of hiking over three decades
In 1992, a significant milestone was marked in New Zealand's tourism industry. The Department of Conservation (DOC) introduced the concept of the Great Walks, a network of hiking trails that showcase the country's breathtaking landscapes. At the time, Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) were non-existent, and hikers relied on traditional methods for navigation and safety.
The Great Walks, which include the Milford, Routeburn, Heaphy, Kepler, Abel Tasman, Tongariro Northern Circuit, and Lake Waikaremoana, quickly became popular among locals and tourists alike. However, mountain biking was banned on all these trails from the outset, preserving their natural beauty for hikers.
As the years passed, outdoor gear evolved. Synthetic materials like polypropylene started to replace chequered woollen Swandris, making equipment lighter and more durable. Internal frame packs became more common, although they were usually made of heavy canvas. Thermarests, while expensive, began to appear, offering a more comfortable alternative to thin foam roll mats.
Tunnel tents, capable of handling New Zealand's tempests, were the norm in 1992, but they were heavy, with a two-person tent weighing 3-4kg. Today, with the advent of GPS-enabled PLBs, an injured hiker can be located more quickly, ensuring a faster response in case of emergencies.
In 2022, the Great Walk hut booking systems have become sophisticated, eliminating the need for carrying tents for most hikers. The 'Plan My Walk' app, accessible on the website planmywalk.nz, allows hikers to check for any alerts, read other people's track reviews, check the weather, and get help from a suggested gear list.
Tourism New Zealand (TourismNZ) is celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Great Walks with various stories. The 'Unmissable Highlights on NZ's Great Walks', the 'Alternative 'Off-The-Beaten-Track' walks', and the '9 Day Walks to Challenge Yourself' are just a few examples. The celebration also includes the '5 Short Walks to Stretch Your Legs While Road Tripping Around the South Island'.
However, the ongoing concerns related to COVID-19 have impacted the availability of overnight accommodations on the Great Walks. Detailed changes specifically about accommodation availability on the Great Walks themselves are not explicitly documented, but logistical challenges in transport and seating arrangements on overnight cruises suggest broader impacts on accommodation policies during that period.
Regardless, the free 'Plan My Walk' app remains an invaluable tool for planning and preparing for a New Zealand walk, ensuring that hikers can safely and enjoyably explore the country's Great Walks.
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