Looking for a more affordable way to purchase gear? Uncle Jacko discusses the versatility of retired poly-cotton office shirts, the best sources for weather prediction and PLB features that can save the life of an incapacitated, solo tramper.
Freezing temperatures bring unexpected challenges to a group of Duke of Edinburgh Silver qualifiers on the Ruahines. But through it all, they embrace the magic of a winter wonderland tramp surrounded by snow and icicles and demonstrate what is to be a good hut steward.
While competing in her first ever GODZONE race, Crystal Brindle asks herself, “How much is too much?” Pushing further past her comfort zone than ever before, she reflects on the different ways we experience connection in the natural world during adventure racing and what makes these endeavors not only possible, but worthwhile.
In this historical news article from 1927, an Evening Post journalist examines the recent rise in mountaineering and river-work accidents and the personal stories behind them.
A young, solo tramper attempts to cross the Cascade Saddle during heavy rainfall and tragically drowns. Johnny Mulheron reminds us of the dangers posed by crossing flooded streams and how best to make an informed decision when crossing.
Gale force winds strong enough to carry a pack, a crossing of the largest unbridged river on the Trail, and the chance to use a nursing degree? It's just another week in the life of these two Te Araroa trampers.
The allure of an unchartered climb is enough to entice climbers Jamie Macalister and Martin Johnson. As recipients of the FMC Youth Expedition Scholarship, they venture to scale the expansive, 300-metre-high face on Douglas Spur above the Paringa River.
When it comes to winter tramping, it is especially important to remain flexible when planning dates and routes. Myrthe and her mates find a window of good weather and set out on a weekend mission to Top Hut in Oteake Conservation Park.
On day 3 of an 8 day trip, an unexpected weather bomb forces four mountaineers to make the critical decision to abandon camp in horrendous conditions.
During a climbing trip in Fiordland, Tarsh and her mates attempt to tackle two peaks in one go, which leaves her 'wondering why she had to fall in love with such a precipitous corner of the world.'
Craving a backcountry adventure during lockdown, Penzy reminisces through photography and storytelling about a time when 'the mountains said no' -- in what became a trip that demanded creativity and perseverance in wild Fiordland.
What exactly is wind chill and how does it relate to hypothermia? Bob McDavitt reveals how hypothermia is responsible for more deaths than avalanches and skiing in New Zealand, as well as explains its warning signs and what actions to take if someone is experiencing symptoms.
Is it rain or showers? (Hint: the answer lies in the buoyancy). Former MetService Ambassador, Bob McDavitt, discusses cloud identification, thunderstorms, and rain in the ranges.
With trusty Wellington commuter e-bike turned tough, off-road vehicle, Gunilla Jensen embarks on her first bikepacking adventure. Rather than starting small, she undertakes quite the feat -- cycling once round New Zealand's South Island.
'When Highs gets over 1030: it’s going to get dirty.’ Bob McDavitt discusses wind and explains the five rules for deciphering a weather map.
Where in New Zealand lies 'God's Own Wet Zone?' Former MetService Ambassador, Bob McDavitt, explains in layman terms how to understand orographic precipitation, freezing level, and the best recipe for snow.
What are anticyclones? Former MetService Ambassador, Bob McDavitt, notes their more undesirable attributes and the ten reasons why he hates a 'High.'
After becoming good friends 10 years ago while training for the Kathmandu Coast to Coast Race, Stefan and Dennis embark on their own wilderness traverse -- a 10-day, 250 km west-east crossing of the South Island. In Part I of their epic, they trek through difficult conditions and reassess the future of their trip.
How strong does the wind have to be to knock over a tree ... or even a person? MetService Weather Ambassador Bob McDavitt provides a guide to measuring wind speed both in the mountains and on land.
What is 'El Nino?' A weather pattern first labelled by the Peruvians, learn how it has impacted climate not only globally, but here in New Zealand.
Uncle Jacko emphasises the importance of a good pair of knickers in the backcountry and how winter tramping often seems more alluring whilst in the comforts of an armchair.
Have you ever wondered what causes those UFO-shaped clouds high above the mountains? Or why some areas are lashed by strong winds while others remain protected? MetService Forecaster, Leigh Matheson, offers insight into the role wind plays in the mountains.
How do storms get their names and who chooses them? Former MetService Ambassador, Bob McDavitt, explains the history behind naming storms, how they are categorised, and his insight into the 2011 tropical cyclone season that caused widespread damage.
Former MetService Ambassador, Bob McDavitt, shares his expertise in the art and science of reading weather maps and clouds.
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