Hikers reminded to weigh consequences due to New Zealand's harsh weather conditions
In the heart of New Zealand lies the Tararua Ranges, a popular destination for trampers seeking adventure. However, the region has seen its share of challenges, with over 180 trampers involved in search and rescues between 2010 and 2017, making it the third-highest conservation area in the country for SAR incidents. Sadly, five fatalities were reported in the decade ending 2017.
One such tragedy occurred on May 30, 2019, when 49-year-old Darren John Myers from Wellington lost his life while attempting the Northern Crossing, an 'expert level' tramp known for its extreme weather conditions. An investigation revealed that Myers' death was partially due to his failure to adequately check the weather forecast, understand its effects, and adjust his trip plans to minimize safety risks.
This unfortunate incident underscores the importance of careful trip planning and weather awareness for trampers. The latest weather forecast for a tramping area should be sourced and its impact on the trip considered, with plans adjusted according to the conditions.
In response to such incidents, the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (MSC) has taken significant steps towards enhancing tramping safety in the Tararua Ranges. The MSC formed an Issue Specific Advisory Group with the Department of Conservation (DOC) and New Zealand Police to develop prevention solutions. One of these solutions is the MSC's new trip planning app, Plan My Walk, which helps trampers select an appropriate trip, presents the MetService weather forecast relevant to that track, and provides a section for detailed notes and sharing plans with emergency contacts.
The app is not the only initiative proposed for the Tararuas. A new app and better communication are being considered, as stated in a Stuff Article. Meanwhile, the report from 2020 proposed eight solutions for the Tararua Ranges, including providing clarity on expected journey times, a public interface for reporting track issues, encouraging longer journey times during planning, and accurate information on conditions for trampers to set realistic expectations.
Safety measures extend beyond technology. Appropriate footwear suitable for the terrain is essential, especially boots on expert routes, off-track tramping, and multi-day tramps with heavier packs. In steep terrain, the likelihood and severity of a fall should be constantly evaluated. Off-track descents should preferably follow ridgelines and spurs rather than gullies and streams, which are more dangerous due to their steepness and wetness.
Trampers should also be well-versed in the evidence-based Land Safety Code. Coroner Tracey Fitzgibbon endorsed the NZ Mountain Safety Council's recommendations, which include carefully considering the risks of tramping alone, especially for inexperienced trampers, above the bush line, or in winter conditions.
Alternate routes should be considered during trip planning, and a backup plan should always be prepared, along with the ability to stay longer at safe points such as huts. Myers stayed at Arete Hut, located at 1357m, on May 30 before his tragic incident.
The MetService forecast on the day of Myers' departure predicted northwesterly gales, severe gales at night, and heavy rain, followed by snow down to 1000m on May 31. It is crucial for trampers to be mindful of such forecasts and adjust their plans accordingly.
As we remember Myers and other trampers who have lost their lives in the Tararua Ranges, let us strive to learn from these tragedies and work together to make our beautiful wilderness safer for all.
