What it's all about

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 12, Issue 564, 29 November 1994, Page 8 (Supplement)

What it's all about

The Department of Conservation' s Tongariro/Taupo summer programme is the most successful in the country, with a wide range of activities for the very fit to the young ones and the not-so-fit. It is a chance to discover the fascinating underground life in a cave, feel the aura of our forests, share the excitement of scaling a volcanic peak and learn about how they formed, try helicopter hiking, mountain biking, or seek out hidden hints of our past. Some people take a trip every day of their holidays - making the most of the programme and their time off. But many of the trips are very popular so bookings are often essential. Check with one of the local DoC offices: OHAKUNE: Mountain Road, Box 10 Ohakune, Ph 06-385-8578, Fax 06-385-8128. WHAKAPAPA: Whakapapa Village, Private Bag Mt Ruapehu, Ph 07-892 3729, Fax 07-892 3814. TURANGI: TurangaPlace,PrivateBag, Turangi, Ph 07-386 8607, Fax 07-386 7086. TAUPO: Centennial Drive, Box 528 Taupo, Ph 07-378 3885, Fax 07-378 3886. Many of the summer programme trips are at high altitude. The Tongariro Crossing rises to an altitude of 1 886m above sea level, Mt Urchin in the Kaimanawas rises to 1392m. Being prepared is the key. Weather on the 'Central Plateau' is no-

toriously changeable, so be prepared for the worst conditions. Even on the most glorious day in the park, with not a cloud in sight, it can end up a blizzard. And viceversa, a cool grey day can turn hot, bright and burning. • Always carry a raincoat and warm clothing. • Sturdy footwear is necessary for most tracks. • Boots are essential above the snowline. • If you are adequately equipped, activities will be enjoyable and satisfying, otherwise they can be unpleasant and risky. Cotton is useless protection in wet & wind. Essential gear is: sun hat and sunscreen, sunglasses, day pack, warm hat and gloves, stout footwear, warm clothing top and bottom (polypropylene or wool next to the skin is best), waterproof parka and overtrousers. Lunch, a drink and nibbles. DoC staff would like you to let them know if you have any medical condition you feel may cause you concem during the trip eg. asthma, allirgies, angina. This way we can be prepared in the eVent of anything happening. The Department of Conservation (DoC) reserves the right to exclude from any activity any person not adequately prepared or equipped for conditions that may be encountered. Turn to Page 9

What it's all about,

Each walk is graded to its level of difficulty (see trip descriptions). This is meant as a guide only. If in doubt, check with your trip leader prior to dejparture. Grade 1 Easiest. All ages, no difficulty Grade 2 Easy. All ages, except toddlers Grade 3 Moderate. Average fitness and reasoriable health. Grade 4 Extending. Will be tiring, need average fitness/health. Grade 5 Strenuous. Need above average fitness/health. Codes used with trip descriptions: M Morning trip. A Afternoon trip F Full day trip E Evening talk or activity LD Lunch & drink needed S Snack B Booking essential.

Transport In most cases you will require your own vehicle for transport from the meeting point to the activity start point. Distances indicated (kilometres) in the trip descriptions are ONE WAY. Where buses or other transport is used, a transport charge is made. How fit are you .... really? A range of acti vities is offered and different levels fitness are required. Some acti vities are very strenuous and require above average fitness and health. Some activities are over rough terrain, while others involve a long walk. Check the activity descriptions and difficulty grades for guidance. DoC staff are happy to advise you. There is a fee for most activities in the programme. DoC says the fee pays for knowledgeable and experienced staff to accompany you on the activities. Refunds will be issued if the trip is cancelled by the Department of Conservation. Cancellations on booked trips must be made 24 hours prior to trip departure or a cancellation fee of 20% of the total trip cost (including transport) will be imposed. DoC reserves the right to cancel or provide alternative activities due to bad weather, insufficient patronage, fire or other emergencies. In most cases an alternative trip will be run or refunds issued.