Travel Passion

Cordoba Province and Bolivia Crossing

2011-05-21T10:46:00.000-07:00

After 300 Km hiking in New Zealand, 93 Km in Patagonia ....now...let's go to discover the Province of Cordoba and Bolivia. I'll cross Bolivia by Train to get the Cordillera Real.
Another exciting adventure sponsored by Giorgio's House.

Here (Here I am) you'll be able to check my position (when I can actualize it of course) and here I'll try to write about my trip . (My adventure in Cordoba province and Bolivia)

Ben Lomond + Arthur's Point - 8 hours hiking 23.7 km- 2.200 mt ascent

2011-02-13T00:22:00.000-08:00

Queenstown Trekking – Ben Lomond + Arthur’s point. 23.7 Km 2.200 mt ascent

Yesterday I went to the DOC to check the weather forecast for today….RAIN, RAIN, RAIN…..well…this morning I woke up and…no rain at all!!...Anyway I preferred to wait…but at 9.30 the weather looked even better so….I agree that the weather forecasts are CRAP in all the world and I decided to get out. 10.00 am I started this very nice hiking. You go uphill from the very beginning…I got the Bel Lomond Summit in 2 hours 20 minutes (7.3 Km and 1.450 mt ascent)

The panorama was great…I loved that place…after 30 minutes the weather became more cloudy so….I decided to get down quickly cause I wanted to attempt the Arthur’s point as well.

During my walk I met a very nice girl….oops…her name is a bit difficult…but I write as I pronounce – Brady :o) She didn’t know if going up to the summit of Ben Lomond or try to get the Arthur’s point

….I started for the Arthur’s point and after a while I saw that she was behind me so…I decided to wait for her and we’ll share this great walk together . At the beginning the path was clear but after some miles…all the indications disappeared!!!!...so…we walked and walked and walked…I don’t know if we got the Arthur’s Point but for sure we climbed all the peaks ;o)

23.7 Km and 2.200 mt ascent….it was a great day….the clouds were dark behind us but…not a drop of rain…wow….!!!...

When we got back we decide to have a super Indian Dinner together…YUMMY….I loved it :o)) Great hike, great company great food and….no rain….I couldn’t wish more!!! :o)

Finally I got back to the hostel to take a shower and……woooow….a Huge Rain arrived!!!! I couldn’t believe…. Destiny? :o)

Milford Sound Track - 54 Km of wonderful hiking

2011-02-10T12:56:00.000-08:00

Wow...I loved this track. 54 Km through the Rain Forest then going up to the mountains and then down again to the forest.

Wonderful lakes and waterfalls and a lot of nice hikers from all over the world...a very nice couple from Japan and 2 great hiker couples from New Zealand and Germany.

This hike is amazing. They take you by boat to the begining (the landscape is stunning) and then you start the trek to the first hut. Just 5.6 Km. The next days 16 Km per day in average.

It it's called Rain Forest there is a reason ;o) so...be ready for the rein...anyway I was lucky....I didn't get too much :o) Book well in advance during the peak season cause only 40 hikers per day are admitted

The "funny thing" is that at the same time another 45 people group came with the guides...they actually are not real hikers but people with money that travel very light and can spend 2.700 NZ$ during 4 days to have everything super organized ;o) This is another type of what they call.... "adventure" :o)

Here I diecovered a Bit of "Sicilianity" in New Zealand....yep...cause someone told me that about 30 years ago, a person who knew someone at the DOC got the permission to build 3 huts in the middle of a Public nature Ares (NO more possible) and he made this business...so..this organization cannot have anyu competitor now...I mean...the importance to know the right person in the right moment ;o)

This trekking is not very difficult but the rain can make it more difficult and cold. You'll see a lot of birds, plants...Something that you'll never forget.

Te Anau

2011-02-04T23:55:00.000-08:00

Te Anau

Te Anau is a small town (I mean almost a village) on the south of New Zealand. It’s nice and next to the lake. Very clean. Like almost all the towns in New Zealand there is nothing to do except drinking or shopping (anyway more expensive than in Europe – especially hiking shops)

I am staying here for2 days waiting for the next “wet hiking” in Millford Sound. Yep…the weather forecasts are bad for the next days.

I am spending 3 nights at Backpackers Front Lake Hostel. The staff is ok…not really friendly. The place is not bad but 1 bathroom for 3 rooms (about 12 persons) is not so good….They advertise WIFI internet…well…I purchased it…(Very expensive) 1 hour 5 NZ$!!!...I got 4 hours but after my log in I realized that it was the slowest internet connection I have had since I was in New Zealand!!!...

I got angry…..people (all very young kids (17/24) looked me like a strange person….cause they use to accept anything (they’ll learn with the age) and at the end the staff refunded me all the amount I aid for the internet “disconnection”!! They were not happy….yep cause usually the guys don’t use to protest even if they are not satisfied…so…I was considered the….”Black Sheep” ;o)

Anyway I got another WIFI connection that was much better and cheaper as well from another closer hotel and the signal was strong enough.

I went to the DOC to ask some information about my next trek to Millford Sound….wow…they showed me a small paper with the weather forecast (just a copy) and they even didn’t give me one…what a cheap people!!!...I mean…I paid almost 300 NZ$ to make this trek so…..They could give me at least a copy of the weather forecasts…at the DOC you can find some nice persons or sometimes some unfriendly ones…it depends on how they slept the night before I guess ;o)

Then I had a nice walk next to the lake and finally I went to buy a waterproof liquid for my clothes. Then I got a Pizza and an Omlette for less than 20 NZ$ (You can drink all the water you want for free) , not bad.

Routeburn Track - 32 Km 2 days

2011-02-04T16:07:00.000-08:00

Routeburn Track

It’s a very nice track. The weather can change very quickly. The DOC weather forecast were good…well…I got so much rain I have never got before ;o)

I started from Routeburn Shelter and my first target was mckenzie hut. Almost all trampers stop at Routeburn Falls Hut but I decided to stop after.

During the first hour the weather was not too bad but then….wow…a lot and a lot of rain. I stopped for a while at Routeburn Falls Hut. I ate something…all the trekkers looked me like a crazy cause I had to continue my hike…Rain and wind…I started again my hike. Wind and rain. The track was almost a river. Water anywhere!!

...2 hours later a got a small shelter. I had 10 minutes relax and then I started again…I made a mistake cause I got old….wow…so cold…I was totally wet…feet…everywhere…I started to run to feel less cold!!!....Rain everywhere… the walk was very difficult because o f the Next to the fire there were hundreds boots and clothes anyway with the hope they could get dry! :o)

The next day the weather was nice (finally) and I could also take some pictures…I started my walk to Divide (The end of the Routeburn) at 9.20 a.m. Actually you need 3 hours 30 minutes but if you want to enjoy the views, consider 4 h. 30 minutes

I loved this trek…you see lakes, waterfalls, woods….it’s mpressive…pity for the first day

About the Routeburn Trek: Total Km 32.4 – Moving Avg 4.3 Km/h – Total Ascent 1.500 mt (1.100 the first day) Highest point 1.260 mt

Arrived to Queenstown

2011-02-01T00:04:00.000-08:00

01 February 2011,

I arrived to Queenstown. The bus ticket was 55 NZ$ from Aoraki Mount Cook. Departure time at 10.00 a.m. and arrival at Queenstown at 01.40 p.m.

I didn’t book any hostel. I found a YHA in front of the lake. Price for a 6 beds dorm 32 NZ$ if you are not YHA member.

I had a small look at his town. It looks pretty. There is not too much to do except touristy tours of the lake, shopping, drinking or eating. I didn’t come to party so it’s just a place to relax before my next trekking.

It’s great how here in New Zealand were able to create a tourism industry from nothing. I mean…Mount Cook for example….they create a Village Residence in the middle of nowhere….over expensive where 1 liter of water costs 6 NZ$ 1 T shirt costs 130 NZ$ and tourists (mostly from Japan. There are hundreds tourists from Japan and China)….are happy to pay!!! :o))

Queenstown is nice…it looks like Lausanne and its lac Leman.

I met some roommates and it’s so fun to see these young guys that try to save money and spend the less possible to sleep or even to eat…falling in the TOURIST TRAPS like….the famous…. BUNGY JUMPING !!!!...Yep…all excited to do it…oops…not just excited…SUPER EXCITED!!! …. They have really no idea :o) How does it work? FIRST THING: GREAT MARKETING and FUNNY STAFF (this is the secret….they pick you up at the hostel 2 hours drive to get the X location ;o) then…adrenaline, adrenaline, adrenaline….talk, talk, talk and FINALLY…. 1 JUMP!!!!....yep… 1 !!!! Cost?...oops…the video of the 1 JUMP is included in the price of course ;o)…so…COST?... 350 NZ$ !!!!!!!!!!!!

WOW… all the money saved for sleeping and eating during weeks.….jumped with 1 Bungy!! :o))

Anyway it’s a great way to feel adults in a safely way ! :o) but like that one there is the: Canyoning “Adventure” the Skydive , the Jet Boating etc etc etc…everyting studied to feel hero who is far way to be a hero ;o)

Ball Pass Crossing with NO guides (In ITalian) - 35 Km 2 days 3.200 mt ascent

2011-01-30T16:02:00.000-08:00

Wow...che esperienza...Decisamente unica. Arrivo a Mount Cook il 28 gennaio alle 13.40 circa col bus ta Christchurch (62 NZ$) partito alle 7.40 a.m.

BALL PASS CROSSING MAP -

Il tempo è piovigginoso. Le previsioni danno discreto iper il giorno dopo. Il mio progetto è quello di fare la traversata del Ball Pass (Passo alpino) senza guide. Vado a chiedere informazioni all'uffico DOC (i rangers dei parchi) Una donna indispettita si rivolge a me in modo abbastanza rude dicendomi se avevo idea di cosa volessifare...un giovane sempre del DOC, per fortuna si intromette smorzando i toni e dicendomi che era un passaggio duro e pericoloso ecerca di darmi qualche informazione pur non avendo tanto. Le mappe sono senza sentieri quindi non facile districarsi!!!...Il problema è che il "Ball Pass Crossing" è monopolizzato dalle Guide che organizzano dei tours (partenza dal Lago Tasman , meno dura rispetto a quella che aevo intenzione difare io dal lago Hooker) e tengono le informazioni tutte per loro!! Questo per me è vergognosom è una cosa frequente tra gli "speculatori della montagna" come li chiamo io!!!
Mi fanno registrare in caso non fossi rientraro. Ho infatti dovuto dare i miei estremi giorno di entrata e uscita prevista. Io ho deciso difarlo in 2 giorni, normalmente servono 3 giorni.

29 Gennaio...partenza prevista alle 6 a.m. ma piove...rimando...alle 8 spunta il sole...alle 8.30 sono in marciae l'avventura comincia

Dall'Hostel mi dirigo all hooker Valley (a piedi) sono circa 2.5 Km.

Da la seguo il sentiero, passo il primo ponte...continuo..al secondo ponte non devo attraversarlo..devo aprire un cancello (di divieto pericolo) e oltrepassarlo...da quel punto...tutto e a mio rischio. Ci sono e fiumi brutti da superare...se si precipita si muore perchè si cade a picco sul fiume in piena. Passati continuo la marcia.

Dopo circa 2 ore di caammino mi fermo e incontro 2 altri "folli" neozelandesi che hanno deciso di tentare la mia impresa. decidiamo di affrontarla assieme.

L'avventurain 3 comincia. Camminiamo lungo il costone tra la montagna alla nostra destra e il ghiacciaio a sinistra...salendo e discendendo su sentiero pietroso impervio perchè spesso il cammino terminava su dirupi.

Finalmente arriviamo al "bivio"...mangiamoe ci riposiamo per circa 30 minuti e poi...ci aspetta una salita indimenticabile. Salita a picco su terreno pietroso e franoso con pendenza del 55%. Costeggiando un ruscello. Se si cade si precipita giù.

Si sale e si sale...finalmente si raggiunge un pianoro e la decidiamo di montare le tende...Studiamo la strada da fare per il secondo giorno e ci aspetta una salita ancora più forte su stesso tipo di terreno!!

Il tempo comunque è stato bellissimo...sole e cero limpido a parte un poco di pioggia all'inizio.

La mia cena sono 190g di pasta in busta...non male :o)

Alle 19.00 sono in tenda a massaggiarmi i muscoli e prepararmipsicologicamente al secondo giorno.

La notte passa tranquilla...non troppo freddo. verso mezzanotte mi affaccio dalla tenda e vedo un cielo spettacolare...mai viste tante stelle...!!!

Verso le 4 della mattina il vento cominciaa soffiare forte...qualcosa stava cambiando. Alle 6.30 sono operativo con zaino pronto...i 2 neozelandesi sono unpo' in ritardo.....Io preferisco muovermi presto in montagna a causa dei contrattempi che possono accadere (mai sottovalutare la forza della montagna)...il tempo infatti stava cambiando velocemente...nuvoloni correvano lungo le creste alpine e i raggi di sole si alternavano a giohi di ombre ch creavano effetti bellissimi ma al contempo terribili se si pensava alla strada che avevamo ancora da percorrere!

Il vento cominciava a soffiare molto forte. I 2 neozelandesi decidono di prendere una via ma ioli dissuado...il vento era troppo forte e se avessimo perso il controllo saremmo caduti a picco dal burrone per almeno 300 metri...li convinco...prendiamo dunque la mia via. Ci troviamo di fronte a 2 passaggi brutti a picco sul dirupo...uno di 2 mi guarda e mi dice...Giorgio..."se dovesse succederci qualcosa nella tasca superiode dello zaino abbiamo un trasmettitore...premi il tasto rosso e verrà mandato unsegnale di allarme con le nostre coordinate al centro soccorso alpino"...questa frase mi ha fatto venire i brividi,,,"non succederà nulla" replicai!!

Cominciamo a scalare....passiamoper questi 2 passaggi ripidi stando attenti alle raffiche di vento che ci spostavano (vista anche la mole dei nostri zaini)

Wow...finalmente di fronte a noi il ghiacciaio con il Ball Pass!!!....

Il tempo di scattare qualche foto e poi via in marciadi corsa!!...Strada nuovamente ripida e impervia...arriviamo sotto il ghiacciaio...I 2 Neozelandesi volevano attraversarlo tutto ma il li dissuado a causa dei crepacci...non mi piaceva quella via....anche questa volta mi ascoltano e prendiamo una seconda via tra roccia e ghiaccio. Ci arrampichiamo e tra freddo, neve, ghiaccio e vento raggiungiamo il Ball Pass :o)

Il tempo di 2 foto e giu in discesa sul ghiaccio alla ricerca del rifugio Caroline. Facendo qualche piccolo errore ogni tanto riusciamo a raggiungerlo...Siamofelici...Il rifugio è privato e ad uso delle "Guide Specultrici" ma c'è una iccola zona dove ci si può fermare...mangiamoqualche cosa e poi...cerchiamo di scendere...Ma...non troviamo la via...Nessun segno (quasi sicuramente cancellati dalle guide!...Ci giriamo attorno e ci sono solo burroni!!!

Io nel GPS avevo segnato dei punti di discesa "meno ripidi" in caso estremo...Raggiungimo i punti...i 2 neozelandesi sono perplessi perchè troppo ripidi e srucciolevoli...le pietre cadevano a picco...io comincio a scendere per circa 100 metri...loro provano ma poco dopo si fermano... "Giorgio, vai tu" mi gridano, "noi cerchiamo un'altra via meno ripida"...A quel punto visto che avevamo affrontato l'avventura assieme mi sembrava giusto terminarla assieme...quindi...risalgo quei 100 metrie li raggiungo...Cerchiamo un'altra via...troviamo qualcosa...un po' meno ripido...alla fine raggiungiamo la "mia pista" ma più in basso...continuiamo a scendere lentissimamente....scivolare significava arrivare a valle!!...Ormai vediamo la strada ma ecco che ci troviamo di fronte ad un salto...Io scendo per primo ma lascio lo zaino su. Lo faccio imbragare con una corda...e poi loro me lo passano assieme agli altri. Superato questo ultimo ostacolo dopo altri 50 minuti di cammino ripido e impervio, raggiungiamo la strada...felici!!!...Acc...ma io non sapevo che avevamo ancora circa 12 Km sotto la pioggia da percorrere finoall'area prcheggio...io ero davvero stanco perchè non avevo piui acqua e avevo mangiato poco...dopo circa 2 ore e 40 minuti raggiungiamo il parcheggio...li trovo (per fortuna) 8 giovanidi Panama che ci danno un passaggiofino all'Hostel...12 ore di camminata...è stata dura anche dormire!! :o))

About this trekking: Total distance from the YHA(hostel) Hooker Valley, Ball Pass to Car Park at Tasman Valley - 35 Km - Mov. Avg 2.7 Km/h - Total Ascent - 3.190 mt - Max elevation 2.150 mt -

Christchurch

2011-01-30T15:06:00.000-08:00

Christchurch – January 26,27

From Nelson I took the 8.30 a.m. bus and at 15.30 (Intercity bus – 35 NZ$ bought by internet well in advance) I got Christchurch. Christchurch is a nice small town (the second biggest in New Zealand). Some nice parks, a nice Cathedral. It’s relaxing town as most of the New Zealand towns. I didn’t book any hostel in advance but I found a place t stay close to the bus station very easily.

There is not too much to do in Christchurch but it’s a nice place to spend 1 or 2 relaxing days.

January 28 Intrcity bus for Mount Cook Aoraki (62 NZ$) at 7.40 a.m.

A nice thing is that inside the buses the drivers talk and talk and talk explaining about the places we see during the journey….sometimes it’s not that great when you want to sleep of course! ;o)

HEAPHY Track - 82 Km 4 days

2011-01-26T02:03:00.000-08:00

Heaphy Track - In: Jan 22 at 10.40 a.m. - OUT : Jan 25 at 10.55 a.m.

A wonderful trek in the middle of the nature. It was a bit complicate to organize the transportation. Originally at the hostel they told me there was a company that for 110 NZ$ took me at the first entrance (Brown Hut) and then picked me up at Kohaihai 3 days later. It’s right but it works ONLY if they get the right number of people. In my case they didn’t . Originally I booked a bus ticket from Westport to Nelson (where I lived my stuff during my trekking but it didn’t work cause from Kohaiahi (end of the Heaphy track) to Westport there are 3 hours and there is no regular transportation to and from there! No problem to get the entrance (Brown Hut) from Nelson but difficult to come back. If you have time you can try to hitch but I didn’t have time and it was not good to risk. I was lucky cause during my trek I met some guys that hired a bus to Nelson so I shared the cost with them (95 NZ$)

I was faster then the others and anyway I booked 3 huts – I started the hike at 10.40 a.m. The first I got was Gouland Downs (no gas facilities there) at about 4.10 p.m.. All the other stopped at the first one, 7 Km before…for this reason I was the only one at that hut. I didn’t know that I could drink the water so I had a heavy backpack (21 Kg) cause I carried all the water with me! It was great to have a hut just for me after 23 Km trekking. It was like at home :o)

The second day I started at 8 a.m. and after 4 hours 10 minutes I got the Mckay Hut were I met some persons. The third day a girl (Erika from Canada) wanted to join me for the hike

Yep :o) It was a nice hike…we got Heaphy Hut, next to the beach. This hut is the last one and for tis reason the most crowd. It’s in a great location - IMPORTANT: take a good Mosquito Repelent against the sandflies...I hadn't and I am still suffering!!!

This trek was really beautiful and I was lucky cause I didn’t get any rain!! 80 Km hiking about 1.600 mt ascent (gentle ascent) the path is very good. My avg walking speed was 4.9 Km/h

Abel Tasman Trekking - 26 Km 1 day

2011-01-20T11:08:00.000-08:00

Abel Tasman Trekking

Yesterday I did this wonderful trekking that traverses some fantastic beaches and woods. I booked the transportation at the Hostel in Nelson. 55 NZ$ to get the entrance of the park…then they take you to bark Bay by boat and from there you hike till the entrance. The girl (at the entrance) I asked told me that all this hike was 6 hours…I mean….I am sure she had no idea and maybe she has never hiked in her life :o) the trek is 25.8 Km and if you take some pictures and take e small rest to admire the landscape it’s really hard to do it in just 6 hours!!!....Yep…when I realized that, I had a “heart attack” :o) and I started to RUN!!!...

About the trekking: Total Km: 25.8 – Moving time 5 hours 14 min – Stopped time 1 hour 30 min – Moving Avg 4.9 km/h – Total Ascent 570 mt – Highest point 100 mt

My poor feet heart cause I went with the sandals…

Today relax day before the 4 days hiking from tomorrow!

From National Park to Nelson

2011-01-18T22:20:00.000-08:00

From National Park (Tongariro) to Nelson (South Island)

Long but nice trip. I took the Tranz Scenic Train. This train traverse all the country and you can see the beautiful landscape. The cost of the trip from National Park to Wellington by train was 82 NZ$. Train always a bit late. Departure time 14.00. The landscape is very green and it reminds me the Ireland.

Thousands sheeps . Weather was rainy but not all the time. After 5 hours 30 minutes I got Wellington. In front of the train station there is a Hostel. I decided to spend there the night. 28 NZ$ for a basic accommodation in a 4 bunk beds room. No towels no breakfast no free Internet (Free Internet doesn’t exist in New Zealand…only Mc Donalds and a very few places!. At the hostel I bought the ferry ticket to get the South Island (55 NZ$). January 19, wake up at 6 a.m. I went to the market inside the train station and I got some food for my breakfast. At 7.25 at the Platform 9 I got the shuttle bus for the ferry (2 NZ$)

I got the ferry . Departure time 8.22 a.m.

We arrived at 11.30 (3 hours) .

The day is very beautiful and sunny. I got my bag and I bought the bus ticket for Nelson (the office is just next to the bag claim), price 26 NZ$ . It took 2 hours 20 minutes to get Nelson. I arrived and there was a man from Tasman Bay Backpackers Hostel waiting. I went to this hostel. Nice Atmosphere, 25 NZ$ per night . The ownere is very friendly. Tomorrow at 7 a.m. I’ll go to visit the Abel Tasman Park

Tongariro Crossing - 25 Km 1 day

2011-01-16T22:50:00.000-08:00

Tongariro Crossing

Wow…what a great day!!! Wake up t 7 a.m. Breakfast and at 8 a.m. we took the bus shuttle for Tongariro Crossing. 30 NZ$ Return.

It took about 20 minutes to get the entrance. At 8.30 a.m. we started our hike. We, yes, cause Ben, a nice guy from Auckland decided to join me for this hike. …and he is a good hiker too.

The beginning of the landscape looks like Etna Volcano but then it changes. It’s a very beautiful hike.

Most of the people go straight to the end but we also took one side hike to the summit. Without this extra hike it takes about 5 hours considering the multi photos time but anywhere we were much more fit then the average.

If you are not very good consider between 6 and 7 hours. With the extra hike to the summit it took 6 hours 30 minutes – 23.4 Km and 1060 mt ascent

We met a lot of nice people from all over the world during our hike. This was really nice :o)

The volcanic lakes are wonderful

The color of the water is awsome

Something that you'll never forget

Pity we couldn't swim

I loved it

The trek was hard because it was very hot and dry and I didn't take enough water

Make sure to bring at least 3 liters of water if the day is sunny !!

Tongariro National Park - First day

2011-01-16T01:41:00.000-08:00

Today wake up at 7.20 a.m. departure at 09.00 by bus.

I walked 10 minutes from the hostel to the bus station with my 29 Kg backpacks

Ohakune (Bus) BUS from Auckland but I decided to stop to National Park (a very small village closer to the entrance of the Tongariro– 09.00 a.m. – 15.00 – 36 NZ$ https://reservations.coachbookings.co.nz/

I got National Park at 3 p.m. and immediately I went for a hiking to a small waterfall. A very nice hike through the wood.

All the roads looks desert. Almost nobody on the streets…you can play a football game in the middle :o)

National Park looks like a Ghost village but this is very nice to relax my mind :o)

The hostel I got is called Park. It’s nice but bit overpriced. 40 NZ$ per night in a 4 room bedrooms without breakfast and towel!!!...Anyway I’ll stay just 2 days – PROBLEM: NO Hostel, till now, offerd free Wifi Internect connection. I have always had to pay

About the small Trek:

Total Km: 14.5 – Avg speed 4.3Km/h – Walked time 3 hours 325 min . Time Stopped 57 minutes Tot Ascent: 622 mt

Second Day at Auckland

2011-01-15T03:13:00.000-08:00

Second day at Auckland

The day started well. Because the jet leg I woke up at 7 a.m. and then I went fitness to Albert Park. The day was beautiful and clear…not too hot (about 22 C°). Perfect for fitness.

The parks in Auckland are so nice with thousands flowers

Then I went to the Auckland Museum. Interesting and free entrance (anyway you can make an offer) and I also watched the Maori Show (20 NZ$)

More pictures about Auckland Museum.

After that we ate a Kebab on the street and then…to the Beach at Devonport by ferry (15 NZ$ return and 12 minutes the time to get there) – The ferry company is Fullers. Anyway close by there are several companies that offer some nice full day tours for about 30/40 NZ$

Tomorrow bus at 9 a.m. Tongariro National Park

Some more pictures :

At the Bus Office :o)

At Devonport :o)

Shark on the street :o)

Finally at AUCKLAND!

2011-01-14T01:28:00.000-08:00

Wow…what a long travel. Rome – Dubai / Dubai-Kuala Lampur / Kuala Lampur – Melbourne / Melbourne – Auckland. Departure from Rome at 15.00 (Italian Time) on Jan. 12, 2011 Arrival to Auckland on Jan 14, 2011 at 13.45 Auckland Time.

Flight Company – Emirates

It’s a good company to fly with. Seats are ok. Entertainment is good. A lot of movies in seeral languages. Funny things…you eat with some big forks and knives in METAL and we cannot bring any small scissors!!!!!... ;o)

I tried to change my “bio Watch” and sleep at a similar time of Auckland to better and faster adapt my ody to the new time but I’ll see if it works cause the difference time is 12 hours forward.

Anyway. Emirates is 60/90 minutes late all the times. Well…finally I got Auckland. I went to the passport control and a police woman said that my passport was not “regular” cause it was “broken”…I said that I travelled anywhere with it an I have never had any problems but….she told me to wait on the corner….15 minutes later a policeman came and he told the same things…ok…the passport is in paper so if you use it a lot its normal that it’s no more new…anyway…I had to wait 15 more minutes…finally another policeman came and he told me that I could pass!!!...

My "Broken" passport!!!!

I got the Bags claim and wow….my backpack was there waiting for me…oops…another policeman (bio control) wanted to check my tent to see if it was…”contamined”!!...20 more minutes…finally they gave me my tent back but I had to fit it inside the sac!

Good welcome I say :o) Now it’s time to discover. I took the bus shuttle – “airbus Express – www.airbus.co.nz There is a bus each 15 minutes 24 hours a day 7 days a week. It costs 16 NZ$ one way and 23 NZ$ Return. You get the center after 35 minutes drive. I stopped at the stop number 3 (city center) cause it’s close to the main bus station and 2 minutes walk away there is a Hostel (Base Hostel) not that great but ok for just 2 nights. 26 NZ$ per night only bed in a 4 beds room

...and then a nice walk in Auckland with a huge Pasta with Seafood! ;o)

The Adventure is going to start

2011-01-09T07:51:00.000-08:00

Official Adventure Sponsor

Giorgio's House sponsors the Adventure

GIORGIO'S HOUSE

Everything is packed. The big backpack is 21 Kg the small one (with all the electronic stuff) is 6 Kg

5 weeks next to the nature - Walking and walking and walking...I'll try to get all the information I can so if someday you deciide to make my same adventure, you'll be able to find most of the info here.

I hope I'll be able to update this blog all the time I'll have an nternet connection

Let's go to discover.

Packing!!!

2011-01-07T07:30:00.000-08:00

Really hard to pack all the stuff! I am bringing the minimum with me but the Mountain Sleeping bag + the mountain boots take 3/4 of my whole backpack... a lot of space.
My 85 liters Lowe Alpine Cerro Torre is overfull!!!

I'll take another 25 liters backpack for all the electronic stuff. I don't like too much to travel with 2 backpacks but there is nothing else to do this time!

I'll have 2 sleeping backs. A small one for most of my travel for +12C° - 1C° and the big one that I should use for the Ball Pass Crossing : Temperature Range +1C° - 20C° ... It's hard to think that I'll use the big one only once and it takes so much room inside my backpack but I'll need it on the glacier.

Another heavy adventure is going to start :o)

New Zealand Travel Itinerary - Itinerario di Viaggio

2011-01-02T04:02:00.000-08:00

ITINERARIO Nuova Zelanda

GENNAIO/FEBBRAIO 2011 - January/February 2011:

AUKLAND and Around: (Discovery)

TONGARIRO Crossing (Trekking):

ABEL Tasman (Trekking)

HEAPHY Track: (Trekking)

MOUNT COOK Solo Ball Pass Crossing ( Mountaineering)

ROUTEBURN Track:( Trekking)

MILFORD Track: (Trekking)

QUEENSTOWN: Discovery

AUCKLAND

MILFORD TRACK (4 Full Days)

2010-12-17T06:45:00.000-08:00

Milford Track

The Milford Track (53.5 kilometres) is in the heart of spectacular Fiordland National Park, part of the Te Wāhipounamu – South West New Zealand World Heritage Area and is administered by DOC on behalf of the New Zealand public.

You can walk the track independently or as part of a guided group. Ultimate Hikes hold the only DOC approved concession for overnight guided walks on the Milford Track during the peak walking season.

Located in the southwest of the South Island, the track starts at the head of Lake Te Anau and finishes at Milford Sound. Te Anau, the nearest township has a full range of accommodation, shopping and hire services.
FEES: This is the MOST Expensive in New Zealand!!

Fees must be paid before you start the track.
If you are considering walking the track during the off-peak season please read the winter walking information.

	Adults (18+ yrs)	Youth/child* (0-17 yrs)	Adults (18+ yrs)	Youth/child* (0-17 yrs)
	Peak season - booking required.		Off-peak - booking not required.
Huts (all three)	$153.30	Free (booking required)	$15.30 per hut	Free (booking required)

Getting there

The Milford Track (53.5 kilometres) is in the heart of spectacular Fiordland National Park, part of the Te Wāhipounamu - South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, situated in the South Island of New Zealand.
The Milford Track requires boat transport at both ends of the track. Bus or private transport is required to Te Anau Downs and also from Milford Sound.
During the summer there are regular transport services to and from the track.

Road distances and times

Te Anau to Te Anau Downs - (27km) 30 minutes
Milford Sound to Te Anau - (120km) 2 hours
Milford Sound to Divide - (35km) 30minutes
Queenstown to Te Anau - (197 km) 2 hours
Invercargill to Te Anau - 1 hour 45mins

Track description

The track is marked with “Mile Posts” and there are very good guide books giving detailed information on a mile by mile basis, available from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.
Times are approximate and will vary according to fitness, pace of the group and weather conditions. Each evening DOC staff at the huts will give a safety briefing talk.

Day one, Glade wharf - Clinton hut

Time: 1 - 1 hr 30 min
Distance: 5 km
After a launch cruise from Te Anau Downs (1¼ hours approx) there is a one kilometre walk to Glade House, the first overnight stop for guided walkers. Just past Glade House is the largest and the first of the nine suspension bridges you will encounter on your trip. On a fine day this is a pleasant lunch stop.
Independent walkers continue on the track for about one hour, through attractive beech forest along the banks of the Clinton River, to the Clinton Hut. There are good swimming holes near the hut and a side trip around the wetland board walk.
Guided interpretation trips may be available during the late afternoon, depending on the track staff’s commitments.
During the booked walking season the first night must be spent at Clinton Hut, as the previous day’s walkers will be at the next hut at Mintaro.

Day two, Clinton hut - Mintaro hut

Time: 6 hr
Distance: 16.5 km
It is a gradual climb from Clinton Hut as the track follows the Clinton River to its source, Lake Mintaro, at the base of Mackinnon Pass. It passes through sections of forest and crosses many streams, which may need to be forded during or after heavy rain.
The track passes through many avalanche paths. There are 56 such paths along the track which can cause delays or make the track impassable at any time, especially during the September to early November period. These are sign posted during the danger season. Use caution at other times as dictated by the weather.
An hour from Clinton Hut you reach the Clinton Forks. The toilet located there is all that remains of what was once the first night’s stop for Independent Walkers. The changing course of the river eroded the site.
About 40 minutes further on is a large slip, which occurred in 1982, forming a lake behind it. From here to Hirere Falls (about 20 minutes) the track is prone to flooding during heavy rain. There is a toilet at the Hirere Falls Guided-Walk Shelter. Not far from this point you will get your first view of the Mackinnon Pass and the Pompolona ice field.
It is about an hours walk from Hirere Falls to Marlenes Creek, which can cause problems during heavy rain. The Bus Stop Shelter is located just before the creek and a toilet is located just past the creek.
After passing the turnoff to the guided walks Pompolona Hut, there is a short climb before descending to cross a swingbridge. It is approximately 1½ hours from here to the Mintaro Hut. The vegetation starts to change, reflecting the higher altitude and rainfall. After re-entering the bush it is approximately 40 minutes to Mintaro Hut. Walkers must stay here the second night during the Great Walks Peak Season.

Day three, Mintaro hut - Dumpling hut

Time: 6 - 7 hr
Distance: 14 km From Mintaro Hut there is a well-graded, steady, zigzag climb of about two hours to the Mackinnon Memorial. On the way there are excellent views of Lake Mintaro and the Clinton Canyon. It is worth stopping for a few minutes at the memorial to take in the view from the 12 second drop, before commencing the final climb to the highest point of the track and The Pass Day Shelter (1069 metres).
It is about a twenty minute walk from the memorial to the shelter. The toilet with the best view in Fiordland is located near the shelter. The shelter is supplied with a gas-cooking ring during the summer season.
The 8 km walk from the pass to the Dumpling Hut drops 970 metres steadily over rocky, uneven terrain and provides spectacular views. For many walkers this is the most difficult part of the track. Take regular five minute rests on the down hill section, your knees and ankles will be very grateful!
The Moraine Creek Bridge, the first bridge crossed on the descent, is approximately a third of the way down to Quintin Hut turnoff. Shortly after, the track follows the river, on which there are several waterfalls. This section of the track has wooden boardwalk and staircases in a number of places until it crosses the Roaring Burn swing bridge.
The track then continues to follow the river, with the Dudleigh Falls located about two thirds of the way down. A set of rocky and uneven zigzags leads to the bottom of the hill. From here you can turn left and cross the bridge to the public shelter, toilet and Sutherland Falls or turn right to Dumpling Hut.
The side trip to the Sutherland Falls is well worth the effort. Leave your pack at the Quintin Public Shelter and take the track on the left to the Sutherland Falls - about 1½ hours return. From the shelter it is about an hours walk to Dumpling Hut. There is an excellent view behind you of the Sutherland Falls, about 20 minutes along the track to the Dumpling Hut.
Just before reaching Dumpling Hut there is a raised boardwalk. After dark this is a good place to spot glow worms. A good swimming hole can be found just opposite the turnoff to the huts.

Day four, Dumpling hut - Sandfly point

Time: 5 hr 30 min - 6 hr
Distance: 18 km Most walkers will be feeling the effects of the previous day’s walk. In the main hut there is an excellent track time/place guide that is well worth noting. The track gently descends, following the Arthur River for about 1½ hours to the historic Boatshed. A toilet is located here.
After crossing the swingbridge, the second largest on the track and a good place to spot trout and eels, it is about 20 minutes to MacKay Falls and Bell Rock. Bell Rock is an intriguing rock, which has been worn by water and grinding stones and then tipped over in a rock fall. An hour further on the track crosses two suspension bridges at Poseidon Creek.
The rock cuttings alongside the Arthur River and around Lake Ada were blasted out by prison gangs and contracted work parties in the late 19th century. About an hour later are the Giant Gate Falls. There is a shelter and toilet located beside the river and falls, making it an ideal lunch stop.
From here it is about 1½ hours to Sandfly Point. Flooding can cause delays through this section of track. If the track is closed Department of Conservation Staff will notify walkers during the peak season.
During the Great Walks peak season you will need to leave Dumpling Hut between 8.00 am and 9.00 am, to meet with the boats departing at either 2.00 pm or 3.15 pm from Sandfly Point to Milford Sound. The boat crossing takes approximately 20 minutes.

Closest Towns:

Te Anau - Milford Sound

Routeburn Track (3/4 Full days)

2010-12-16T00:52:00.000-08:00

Routeburn Track

The Routeburn Track traverses 32 kilometres of Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks, part of Te Wāhipounamu – South West New Zealand World Heritage Area and is administered by the Department of Conservation on behalf of the New Zealand public.

Located in the southwest of the South Island the track extends between the head of Lake Wakatipu and S.H. 94, the Te Anau – Milford Road. The nearest townships of Queenstown, Te Anau and Glenorchy have a full range of accommodation. Shops in Queenstown and Te Anau can cater for all your tramping needs, including equipment hire.
You can walk the track independently or as part of a guided group. Ultimate Hikes hold the only DOC approved concession for overnight guided walks on the Routeburn Track during the peak walking season.

ENTRANCE FEEES (A bit expensive!!)

Peak season - booking required.		Off-peak - booking not required.
Adults (18+ yrs)	Youth/child* (0-17 yrs)	Adults (18+ yrs)	Youth/child* (0-17 yrs)
Hut	$51.10	Free (booking required)	$15.30	Free
Campsite	$15.30	Free (booking required)

Getting there

The Routeburn Track is located in the southwest of the South Island. It extends between the head of Lake Wakatipu and S.H. 94, the Te Anau - Milford Road. The nearest townships of Queenstown, Te Anau and Glenorchy have a full range of accommodation. Shops in Queenstown and Te Anau can cater for all your tramping needs, including equipment hire. The Routeburn Track can be accessed by road at either the Routeburn Shelter (the starting or finishing point at the Mount Aspiring National Park end of the track), or at the Divide (the starting or finishing point at the Fiordland National Park end of the track).

Road distances and times:

Queenstown to Glenorchy - 48km, 40 mins
Glenorchy to Routeburn Shelter - 25km,
30 mins (unsealed road)

Track description

The Routeburn Track can be walked in either direction (the following description is from east to west). Times are approximate and will vary according to fitness, weather and direction of travel. Overnight use of the Harris Saddle day shelter and other track shelters is not permitted.
The Routeburn Track can be linked with the Greenstone or Caples Tracks. These tracks are rough and uneven in places and delays can be caused due to flooding. There is no guarantee of obtaining a bunk in these huts as there is no booking system for these backcountry tracks. Hut tickets must be purchased in advanced and gas cookers are required. View the Greenstone and Caples Tracks guide for more information.

Routeburn Shelter to Routeburn Flats Hut

Time: 1.5 – 2 hr
Distance: 6.5 km From the car park at the Routeburn shelter (458 metres) cross the swing bridge to the well formed, easy graded track. Take care crossing the Serpentine Slip five minutes from the start of the track, especially after heavy rain. Past Sugarloaf Stream the track is a remnant of the old bridle path built in the 1870s and climbs directly to Bridal Veil Stream. It then sidles above the Routeburn Gorge.

Routeburn Flats Hut to Routeburn Falls Hut

Time: 1 – 1.5 hr
Distance: 2.3 km

Routeburn Falls Hut to Mackenzie Hut

Time: 4.5 – 6 hr
Distance: 11.3 km

Mackenzie Hut to Howden Hut

Time: 3 -– 4 hr
Distance: 8.6 km

Howden Hut to The Divide

Time: 1 – 1.5 hr
Distance: 3.4 km

MOUNT COOK (4 full days)

2010-12-15T11:05:00.000-08:00

Activities in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Ball Pass Crossing

My MAP Project Clich Here

Ball Pass Crossing is a demanding two to three-day alpine route, crossing the Mount Cook Range between the Hooker and Tasman Valleys. The route provides spectacular views of Aoraki/Mt Cook, Mt Sefton, the Copland Pass and the Hooker and Tasman Glaciers.

The trip can be started from either valley but, for safety reasons and in order to gain the best views, the recommended route is to start at the White Horse Hill camping area and travel up the East Hooker, over Ball Pass (sidling around under Mounts Rosa and Mabel) and down the Ball Ridge to the Tasman Valley and Ball Shelter.

Track description

Whitehorse Hill carpark to East Hooker valley camping site

Time: 3 – 4 hr From the carpark follow the Hooker Valley Track to the second swingbridge. Don’t cross this; instead, sidle around on the true left of the Hooker River across the scree slope. Once across the shingle follow the cairned route up the East Hooker valley to the large shingle fan opposite the Hooker Hut and Copland Gut (both in the West Hooker valley). There is good camping available at this shingle fan.

East Hooker valley camping site to the "playing field"

Time: 1.5 hr
From the shingle fan, follow the distinct gully to the north-east. This is snow-filled in Spring. The gully leads to a large shoulder or flat area below Mt Mabel known as the "playing field". This is an ideal camping site. Water or snow melt is often available near the top of the gully. Poo pots are essential for this site.

"Playing field" to Ball Pass

Time: 4 hr
From the "playing fields" ascend the shingle slopes to the east. These slopes form a large Z between bluffs. Once on top of the Z, follow an exposed ledge to the north, to a small shoulder on the ridge north-west of Mt Mabel. There is often a cairn to mark this spot, but be mindful that cairns can be destroyed in winter by avalanches and are not always in place. This is one of the few routes through the bluffs and it is important to gain this point sufficiently high enough.
Traverse from this point in a northerly direction across rock slabs and then descend around the spur, west of Mt Rosa. Once past Mt Rosa ascend the shingle slope (this may be a snow field at certain times of the year) in a north-easterly direction to Ball Pass.

Ball Pass to Caroline Hut

Time: 2 hr After crossing Ball Pass and taking time to enjoy the views, descend Ball Glacier for approximately 60–70 m (200 feet) before turning south to gain Ball Ridge. Descend Ball Ridge to Caroline Hut.

Caroline Hut to Ball Flat

Time: 2 hr
A good camping site is available 750 m north-east of Caroline Hut at the end of the flat section of Ball Ridge. From this point descend several rock steps, more or less following the ridge crest. Two difficult sections can be avoided by turning around to the eastern side. Follow the track marks and cairns to the level part of the track on the narrow ridge line. Do not follow the historic track further along, as slips have made it impassable. At the last cairn descend the boulder scree to the east and pick up the route through alpine scrub. Follow the road and cut track to slips and boulder scree that lead to the old Ball Hut site and over to Ball Flat.

Ball Flat to Blue Lakes carpark

Time: 2 – 3 hr From Ball Flat head down the Tasman valley following the old Ball Hut road. The road has slumped in several places and climbers need to scramble up and down the moraine to regain the track.
Keep to the track and do not be tempted to go down the moraine wall to the glacier. Loose rock makes this particularly dangerous. Once on flat simply wander down grassy terrace to Ball Flat. Leaving Ball Flat, follow the obvious track to Husky Flat, which changes to a 4WD track down to Blue Lakes carpark. It is an eight-kilometre road drive from the carpark back to Aoraki/Mt Cook village.

CLOSEST CITY: AORAKI

Mueller Hut Route

Mueller Hut makes a mountain experience possible for anybody with moderate tramping ability, so long as care is taken.
At 1800 metres on the Sealy Range (nearly half as high as Aoraki/Mount Cook’s summit), the hut provides a 360-degree panorama encompassing glaciers, ice cliffs, vertical rock faces and New Zealand’s highest peaks. It’s a great site for hearing and viewing ice falls, alpine sunrises and equally unforgettable sunsets.
Climbing to the hut through alpine scrub, herb fields and scree slopes can be an achievement in itself, or the start of further opportunities for the more experienced. Whatever the aim, careful adherence to these instructions will help make your trip safe and memorable.
Distance 5.2 Km

Heaphy Track (5 full days)

2010-12-14T08:09:00.000-08:00

The 82 kilometre track through Kahurangi National Park, connecting the Aorere Valley in Golden Bay with Karamea on the West Coast of the South Island, is a fantastic adventure for moderately fit people of all ages. It is usually covered in around five to six days.

Scenically, every day on the Heaphy Track is wonderfully different. You'll pass through ancient beech forests, expansive alpine tussock country, see giant rata trees, limestone caves and cliffs, cross broad rivers (all with sturdy bridges) and look out over rugged, densely forested mountains as far as the eye can see.

The huts are spaced evenly along the track. The longest distance between huts, excluding shelters is 17 kilometres between Brown Hut and Perry Saddle Hut. All huts except two have gas cooking facilities.

Bus Transport

Heaphy Track to Karamea (End of the Track)

Between Kohaihai at the western end of the track and Karamea, Brian from Karamea Transport operates a pick up/drop off service for $14 per head on scheduled daily trips at 9.30 and 1.30, but is happy to pick up trampers outside these times (minimum charge $40)
For more information or to make a booking, call (03) 7826 667.
Brian is based at Rongo Backpackers and Gallery (guests here receive a $2 discount) but is happy to transport trampers to other accommodation businesses in Karamea.

The TRACK:

Brown Hut to Perry Saddle Hut

Time: 5 hr
Distance: 17.5 km

Perry Saddle to Gouland Downs Hut

Time: 2 hr
Distance: 7 km

Gouland Downs Hut to Saxon Hut

Time: 1 hr 30 min
Distance: 5.4 km

Saxon Hut to James Mackay Hut

Time: 3 hr
Distance: 11.8 km

James Mackay Hut to Lewis Hut

Time: 3 hr 30 min
Distance: 12.5 km

Lewis Hut to Heaphy Hut

Time: 2 hr 30 min
Distance: 8 km

Heaphy Hut to Kohaihai River Mouth

Time: 5 hr
Distance: 16.2 km

FEES per person per day: BOOK Online
Booking required all year for
adults, children and youth
Adults Hut Ticket $30.60 Campsite Ticket $12.20

MORE INFO OFFICIAL SITE

New Zealand Hikings...The Organization DOESN'T look good!

2010-12-13T23:55:00.000-08:00

Yep....I hope I am wrong but I sent and Several e.mails to the Information Offices of the Parks and: Westland Park and Arthur's Pass replied with just some links!!!...I guess they have a lot of work...;o)

Then I wrote to the GREAT WALKS Office Information...ok...On Summer we should Book in advance to visit the parks (and that's really bad) but anyway I live 20.000 Km away from New Zealand so how can I know when I'll be next to Fiordland or Abel Tasman or anywhere else so in advance?....Some of them are also VERY Expensive (Fiordland for example costs 115€ !!!) so I would like some better information and answers.

I asked that and that's what they replied!!! (No comment!!!)

Hello
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the Milford, Kepler or Routeburn Track.
Bookings for these tracks are required between late October and the end of April each year. (I knew that and for this reason I sent them an e.mail!!) Outside these times (winter season) Backcountry Hut tickets or a Backcountry Hut Pass are required as payment to stay in the Huts and walkers must be totally self sufficient (So we pay 115€ and you don't provide anything and we also must book in advance and if the bus is late and we arrive later what happen?...Do we lose our money??) .

Full information on the tracks, including what to take, track guide, availability of Huts and Campsites and costs can be found on our website(Again an answear using some links!!!)
Milford Track - www.doc.govt.nz/milfordtrack
Kepler Track - www.doc.govt.nz/keplertrack
Routeburn Track - www.doc.govt.nz/routeburntrack
Bookings for the 2010/11 season are currently open. Bookings for the 2011/12 season will open on Tuesday 13th of July 2010
Bookings can be made and paid for online from the above track information webpages or by sending the following details to this office
Name and address of contact person
Email address of contact person
Names, ages, gender and Nationality of all walkers
The date and the names of the huts or campsites you wish to stay. Please give an alternative date in case your first choice is fully booked. (Yes but as I asked I cannot know in advance when I'll be able to get each park so...what happens if I book 1 date and because of the buses or any other reason I arrive later or before?)
Payment - we accept Visa or Mastercard. For your own security we do not recommend sending credit card numbers and expiry dates via email. (Yes...the Payment is the only srute thing and it looks also the most important one ;o)!)
If you require more information please get back to me. (I have already done it right now ...so...we'll see what other answer you'll give me, dear Denise ;o)

Regards
Denise

GREAT WALKS New Zealand and Tickets

2010-12-13T05:28:00.000-08:00

OFFICIAL PDF - 2010/2011 Season

Seasons
Peak season is from 1 October to 30 April (summer) but
these dates may vary in some places, or be delayed by
snow or avalanche conditions.
Off-peak season is from 1 May to 30 September (winter)
Fees
٭ Fees are charged per person per night.
٭ Great Walk Tickets are required for the use of all huts and campsites. Tickets must be purchased
before you set out on a walk. You may need to make a booking for the huts and campsites on some
Great Walk tracks. You can do this via www.doc.govt.nz or at DOC visitor centres. Penalty fees of up
to double the standard fee apply if pre-purchases of Tickets are not made. Note that while there are
no fees for youth, children and infants, bookings are still required.
٭ From 1 July 2008 youth and children may stay at huts and campsites free of charge. Note that
bookings are still required.
٭ Off-peak season the Backcountry Hut Pass and Backcountry Hut Tickets can be used in many huts.
The fee Backcountry Hut Pass (valid for up to 12-months) is Adults $90.00.
٭ Please observe maximum stay periods. Peak, 2 nights at huts or campsites; off-peak 3 nights at
huts, 5 at campsites (except Milford, Abel Tasman and Heaphy Tracks). Camp only where permitted.
٭ The provision of hut and campsite facilities and services are heavily subsidised. Fees levied for the
use of huts and campsites make a small but valuable contribution towards their maintenance.
Limited discounts are available for members of approved ‘Recreation Associate’ organisations.
Bookings
• Required peak season only for Milford huts, Routeburn and Kepler track huts and campsites.
Bookings open mid July each year.
• Required all year for Lake Waikaremoana, Abel Tasman and Heaphy Track huts and campsites.
• Not required for Whanganui Journey, Tongariro Northern Circuit and Rakiura Track huts and
campsites.
Book via www.doc.govt.nz , greatwalksbookings@doc.govt.nz or DOC visitor centres. Note booking fees apply

The best-known NZ hiking trails are known as New Zealand’s Great Walks and they give visitors access to some of New Zealand’s most pristine corners.

Administered by the Department of Conservation (DOC), these trails lead through New Zealand’s national parks and UNESCO World Heritage areas and are maintained to a high standard. Many require advance bookings.
1. Abel Tasman Coast Track
Perhaps the most gentle of the Great Walks, this 51-kilometre coastal track introduces walkers to an intriguing blend of forest and sandy beaches. View map
2. Heaphy Track
This popular track passes through a range of landscapes in Kahurangi National Park, from tussock land to West Coast rainforest. View map
3. Kepler Track
Located in Fiordland National Park, this 60-kilometre track offers a varied landscape of forest, alpine areas and a glacial valleys, and can be walked in three to four days. View map
4. Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk
Discover the varied beauty of Te Urewera National Park on a three- to four-day walk through dense rainforest along the lake edge. View map
5. Milford Track
New Zealand’s most widely known walk, located in Fiordland National Park where forested valleys abound. View map
6. Rakiura Track
Located on Stewart Island, in New Zealand’s newest national park, this coastal track can be walked in three days. View map
7. Routeburn Track
This popular track links Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks, passing waterfalls, forest and lakes along the way. View map
8. Tongariro Northern Circuit
Passes through an unforgettable range of volcanic landscapes. View map
9. Whanganui Journey
Travelled by canoe rather than by foot, the Whanganui Journey is grouped with the Great Walks due to its significance as a national treasure. View map

LINK

Abel Tasman National Park

2010-12-13T05:24:00.000-08:00

This one should be the second trek in my list.

Location

At 22,530 hectares Abel Tasman is New Zealand's smallest national park. It is located at the top of the South Island; the nearest towns are Motueka, Takaka and Kaiteriteri

About

The most noticeable features of this park are the golden sandy beaches, the fascinating rocky outcrops (mainly granite but with a scattering of limestone and marble) and the rich, unmodified estuaries. The landscape has been modified, perhaps more than in our other national parks. The vegetation cover varies and reflects a history of fires and land clearance, but the forests are regenerating well especially in damp gullies where a rich variety of plants can be found. Black beech dominates the drier ridges.

ACTIVITIES:

Tracks and walks

There are two options for those with a few days to spare and the desire to explore: the Coast Track and the Inland Track through the hilly centre of the park. The Coast Track is the easier and is one of New Zealand's Great Walks.

I'll have a lot to hike in New Zealand so I think I'll take 2 days rest to visit in day trips the Abel Tasman so I won't get the Coast track. Anyway here some information I found about this track
There is no charge for day walks.
(Abel Tasman Coast Track)

Getting there

Private transport

The Inland Track has road access at several points:
Marahau, the southern gateway, is 67 km from Nelson.
To reach the northern end or Pigeon Saddle (on the Totaranui Road), follow State Highway 60 over Takaka Hill to Takaka (107 km from Nelson). Turn right upon entering Takaka; from there it is 23 km to Wainui car park, 24 km to Pigeon Saddle and 32 km to Totaranui.

Public transport

Regular high season bus services provide access to Marahau, Totaranui, Pigeon Saddle and Wainui.
On-demand taxi services are available at Motueka and Takaka.
Boat services from Kaiteriteri and Marahau provide access to Totaranui

A Back Country Hut Pass or Backcountry Hut Tickets are required to stay in the huts along or near the track. These must be purchased before you begin your trip and are available from DOC offices, visitor centres and some sports shops throughout New Zealand. Heating is provided in the huts, but there are no cooking facilities. Please use only dead firewood and carry your own cooking equipment.

Plan and prepare

Safety: Weather in Abel Tasman National Park is generally mild but you should be prepared for high winds and heavy rain and carry spare warm clothes all year. Snow falls occasionally around Moa Park and upper Evans Ridge. Please use the visitor books in the huts. Always tell someone where you are going. Remember your safety is your responsibility.
Rubbish: No rubbish facilities are provided; all rubbish must be carried out of the park.
Giardia: Giardia has been found in some park waters. It can be removed from drinking water by boiling, chemical treatment or filtering.
Water: There are few reliable water sources along the Inland Track, particularly along Evans Ridge and between Tinline Bay and Holyoake’s Clearing. Carry your own water supply.

PLACES to STAY

Note: Campsite Ticket can be upgraded to a Hut Ticket after 6pm if space is available and a hut
fee is paid.
Booking required all year
Adults,
Hut Ticket $35.70 - Campsite Ticket (max 2 nights
except Totaranui which is 1) $12.20

1 New Zealand dollar = 0.558 Euros

Fees

٭ Fees are charged per person per night.
٭ Great Walk Tickets are required for the use of all huts and campsites. Tickets must be purchased
before you set out on a walk. You may need to make a booking for the huts and campsites on some
Great Walk tracks. You can do this via www.doc.govt.nz or at DOC visitor centres. Penalty fees of up
to double the standard fee apply if pre-purchases of Tickets are not made.

Sto studiando i trekking - Still studying the trekkings

2010-12-10T10:37:00.000-08:00

The First Trek should be the:

Tongariro National Park

Location

Tongariro National Park is located in the central North Island of New Zealand. It is the closest national park to Auckland, New Zealands largest city, and is very accessible from State Highway 1. The nearest towns are Turangi, National Park and Ohakune.

I think I'll do the TONGARIRO Alpine CROSSING - About 19 Km

In this way I don't have to book in advance the Great Walk Ticket cause I really don't know yet when I'll be there.

The weather in the Tongariro National Park can change very quickly, it is essential that you are prepared for all conditions.

Food and plenty of fluid, especially on hot days and if you are going to do any of the summit’s you will need extra water.
Rainproof coat and over trousers
Strong sturdy boots (You will be trekking on uneven volcanic terrain)
Warm woolen or polypropylene clothing
Sun protection
Personal first aid kit
Map and compass

It is recommended that you take transport to the beginning of the track so operators know when to expect you off the mountain.. STARTING POINT: Mangatepopo - ARRIVAL POINT: Ketetahi

Campsites:

Fees

$4.00 adult/night, $2.00 child/night (5-17 years), under 5 free

The Whakapapa Visitor Centre is situated at the main gateway to Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s first national park and presently attracting in excess of one million visitors per annum.

The opening hours for the Centre are:

Summer: 8.00 am to 6.00 pm in the summer (November – March)
Winter: 8.00 am to 5.00 pm in the winter (April – October)

A 24 hour emergency helpline can be accessed from a phone in the foyer.
TONGARIRO Crossing spans

The crossing spans the length of Mt Tongariro (18.5 Kilometres) and takes about 7-9 hours. You start from the Mangatepopo Valley and walk over towards the Ketetahi road end as this will minimise the climbing involved. You need to arrange transport to the begining of the trek and pick from the end of the day with your accommodation provider in National Park Village.

Summit Side Trips on the Tongariro Crossing

Mt Ngauruhoe 2287m
allow 1-2 hours up and 30 minutes down(from the saddle)
If you want to climb Mt Ngauruhoe and complete the Crossing in one day - ensure you allow plenty of times as this is a strenuous side trip.

From South Crater a poled route leads over to the base of Ngauruhoe. Look for the old lava flow or the rocky ridge to the left of the scree slopes.Then pick your own route up. The summit area can be dangerous and should be avoided if there are any signs of volcanic activity. The descent can be made relatively quickly but it is easy to lose control on the free-flowing scree.

Mt Tongariro 1967m

From Red Crater follow the poled route to the summit of Mt Tongariro. It follows a ridge that can be cold and exposed in poor conditions, so ensure you have plenty of time and a beautiful day to really enjoy this side trip.
Allow 1and 1/2 -2 hours return

TRACK Description:

This description details the trek from Mangatepopo through to Ketetahi. A full day is required (7-8 hours including rest stops). The track can be walked in the reverse direction but this requires more climbing so allow an extra hour. As this is not a round trip visitors will have to arrange transport to Mangatepopo roadend and back from Ketetahi roadend. Several local operators provide this service.
From the carpark at Mangatepopo Roadend, 6km off State Highway 47, the track makes its way up the Mangatepopo Valley. Thirty minutes from the carpark a side track on the left leads to Mangatepopo Hut. Continuing at a gentle gradient the main track climbs alongside a stream and around the edges of old lava flows.
The porous surface of new lava, its blacker colour absorbing much of the sun’s heat, is a harsh environment for plants. Simple colonising mosses and lichens are the first to establish followed years later by successively larger plants each taking advantage of the slow build up of precious soil. This succession of plant communities is evident on the lava flows of varying ages that have flowed from the crater of Ngauruhoe.

Mt Ruapehu Crater climb

Time:

5 - 7 hr

Distance:

7 - 10 km

On Mt Ruapehu amazing volcanic terrain is combined with permanent snow and glaciers to provide for a rare and beautiful climb. One of the highlights is a climb to the Ruapehu crater from where you can gaze down into the geothermal waters of the crater lake. On your way up and down take time to enjoy the truly spectacular views.

Alert/Important notice

The mountain has had its first heavy snowfall of the winter. Snow and ice now on Ruapehu to low levels – crampons and ice axe essential for climbing and backcountry travel on the mountain.

Mount Ruapehu

Mount Ruapehu is an active volcano.
An eruption occurred on September 25th 2007.
Climbers are advised that the area within 700 metres radius of the crater is a High Risk Zone. Mt Ruapehu Crater Hazard Map (PDF, 556K)
The volcanic Alert is at Level 1. To view the latest information on the alert level, visit the website of GNS Science.
Climbers approach this area at their own risk.
Ice axe and crampons are essential.
Check the avalanche report on avalanche.net.nz.
Climbers must be well prepared with warm and windproof clothing and boots.
Do not climb in poor visibility or high winds.

Why New Zealand ?

2010-10-18T11:50:00.000-07:00

...Yes...why New Zealand? At the begining I wanted to visit India (Himalaya side) but January/February is not the best period to get there....so....New Zealand was my choice for Hiking during January and February!

Nature and Landscapes make this place really great and all people from New Zealand I met during my life looked very nice so...That's why New Zealand... I'll try to make all the trekkings I'll be able to do considering I'll have just 35 days...

This is the Interactive maps I made: New Zealand Interactive Planning Map