Trip Grades

Am I suitable for this tramp?

We host a full range of trips from newbie-friendly, to full-on multi-day tramps that require a good level of fitness and navigation skills.

If you are unsure of your level of fitness, either because it has been a while since you tramped or this is your first tramp, then it is better not to sign up for Grade 4 and 5 Trips.

Tramping fitness is different to general fitness so don’t assume you are good simply because you can strut about in a gym environment. The best way to become tramping fit is to tramp more.

Please be aware that signing up for trips beyond your capability is not fair on other members of the group. We are all here to have fun and share the experience and your decisions can have an impact upon others.

Have a quick read of this Blog post for a better understanding about what your grade should be…

Fitness Grades – What to Expect

5 = Hard

  • Walk well over 8 hours 
  • Who needs a rest? 
  • Pace is quick 
  • Multiple 1000m+ hills 
  • Tramping is life!

Hut Examples: Maungahuka, Dundas, Tarn ridge, Dorset & Carkeek.

4 = Challenging

  • Walk 7 hours per day 
  • Occasional rests 
  • Moderate quick pace 
  • Rests are short 
  • 2 hills over 1000m 
  • Have tramped lots 
  • Want to get places 
  • Bushcraft skills 
  • You love tramping!

Hut Examples: Alpha Hut, McGregor Bivvy.

3 = Medium

  • Walk 6 hours per day 
  • Have rests every 1.5 to 2 hours 
  • Pace is reasonable 
  • Rests are short 
  • Hills over 1000m 
  • Have adequate gear 
  • Want to get places 
  • Bushcraft skills

Hut Examples: South Ohau, Herepai, Roaring Stag, Rangiwahia, Neill forks, Waitewaewae, Mid Waiohine, Kime, Waiopehu, Mangahao flats & Cattle ridge.

2 = Easy to Medium

  • Walk 5 hours per day 
  • Rests every hour 
  • Easy pace, long stops 
  • Can climb a big hill 
  • Relaxed and social 
  • Photo stops 
  • Tramped before

Hut Examples: Powell, Jumbo, Totara Flats, Mitre Flats, Cone, Sayers & Tutuwai.

1 = Easy

  • Walk 4 hours per day 
  • Rests every half hour 
  • Easy pace, long stops 
  • Relaxed and social 
  • Photo stops 
  • New to tramping

Huts Examples: Paua, Haurangi, Turere lodge & Atiwhakatu.

Note: Weather conditions can make a trip far more challenging. You should be prepared for all conditions.

Zero = Not Fit For Tramping

  • Sedentary Lifestyle  

Example: Holdsworth Lodge!

Tramping involves being physically active

Day walk or Overnight?

Generally these grades are for trips with an over-night pack. If you are just doing a day walk then drop your grade down by at least one!

Confuzzled?

Have a chat with your event host to make sure the trip you sign up for is suitable for you and your abilities.