Coordinating shared plans
In the heart of the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a group of trampers are gearing up for an exciting summer adventure on the old section of the new Paparoa Track, known as The Croesus Track. The trampers, who come from different backgrounds and locations across the country, are beginners embarking on their first major hiking expedition.
To ensure a smooth and safe journey, the trampers are making meticulous preparations. They have turned to an interactive eLearning Lesson called "Plan a Trip Like a Pro" to help them with trip planning. The group is also utilising tools such as the Plan My Walk app, online documents, and adding URLs in the notes section to keep their plan accessible to all group members.
Given their geographical dispersal, the trampers have had to get creative with their planning. Compiling thoughts in one place, such as a chat group or video chats, has been instrumental in developing a cohesive plan and ensuring nothing is forgotten.
The trampers are considering the difficulty of the trip by looking at photos, elevation plots, TOPO maps, and reading track reviews. They are also discussing skills that might be required, such as crossing rivers and navigating. To ensure everyone is satisfied with the pace, pitstops, and snack breaks during the trip, the group is having open discussions about these aspects.
Recognising the importance of safety, the trampers are discussing the emergency equipment each member is carrying, such as a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) and First Aid Kit. The group has also agreed on an emergency plan, referred to as 'Plan B'.
Sharing personal experiences, such as who has been to the destination before, can be helpful. This shared knowledge has been invaluable in preparing for potentially cold, wet, and windy weather. Starting discussions about the trip plan early is particularly important for beginners or those who have not walked together before. It's crucial to dive into the plan details that will ensure the safety of all trampers.
The University of Canterbury Tramping Club has organised this summer hike on The Croesus Track. The trampers are downloading the Plan My Walk app to build and share their plans, making the journey even more collaborative and efficient. As the date of the adventure approaches, the trampers are feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation, ready to embark on this unforgettable journey.
