Now that it’s the summer time and the weather is fine (mostly), you may find yourself wondering, ‘What shall I do today?’.
Well, wonder no longer; answer a few simple yes/no questions, follow the arrows, and the chart will tell you what you should be doing. When you’ve got your answer, read about the opportunities for that activity below!
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Great Walks
The Great Walks are DOC’s premier walking tracks—the best of the best. They take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, and the huts and tracks are of a higher standard that other huts and tracks. There are nine Great Walks in total, all of different lengths and difficulty levels. Choose one that suits your style, or tick them off your list one by one. These are great to do in the summer months, with plenty of swimming opportunities to make the most of, and visitors from all around the world to get to know. Go with friends, family or as a couple, and relish the achievement of completing one of the most stunning walks in the world!
Tracks and walks
Trialling and trekking DOC tracks is an ideal activity for you this summer. Burn off the sneaky icecreams and second helpings of your aunty’s famous potato salad with a bit of up-hill huffing and puffing. There’s a heap of tracks (in whichever region you’re in) with various lengths and difficulty levels. If you’ve got two days or two hours, there’s something to fill in your time while keeping you fit and exposing you to some different areas. If you need to get away from the in-laws, walking a quick loop through native bush is a great way to regain your inner peace. Find a walking buddy, create your perfect scroggin recipe, and plan your tracks for this summer!
Adventure recreation
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie with four bungy jumps under your belt, or a self-confessed timid Tim, you’ve landed on ‘Adventure recreation’ for your perfect summer activity. Take a step to the left outside of your comfort zone and choose from the many outdoor activities available throughout the country. Adventure recreation is a great rush, and there are plenty of DOC approved concessionaires who will guide you throughout your experience if you’re after something tried and tested. There are also activities where no guide is needed (if you’ve got the skills and the resources) such as sand boarding in Northland, motor boating at Cable Bay, or abseiling in the Wairarapa. With the huge selection available, there’s bound to be something up your alley!
Snorkelling
Exploring the world under the sea is the top pick for you this summer. Marine Reserves around the country are off the hook, bubbling with the activity of fascinating creatures who are safe from the hungry eyes of fishers. Try snorkelling or diving lessons if you’ve never been out before. In the words of Sebastian the crab, “Just look at the world around you, right here on the ocean floor. Such wonderful things surround you, what more is you lookin’ for?” Whether you’re going on holiday, or looking for something to do in the weekends, snorkelling is a fun (and educational) way to get active in the sea this summer. See some fun places to go snorkelling here.
Camping
Camping is your perfect summer activity—like many kiwis around the country, you’d enjoy setting up a base under the stars and spending time with good food, good weather and good company. DOC manages over 250 campsites in New Zealand (including on New Zealand’s islands) so there’s plenty of special spots to choose from—many at ridiculously cheap prices, if not free! They’re often located in areas that have heaps of conservation activities near by, so there’s lots to keep you entertained! Find out more at www.doc.govt.nz/camping.
