Hiking Clothes

When it comes to hiking in New Zealand, choosing the right clothing is essential. Clothing that is appropriate for the weather conditions to keep you dry, warm or cool when needed and comfortable is important. Weather in NZ is really changeable making the decisions around what to wear more challenging as you can experience all seasons in one day.

Merino wool is a great option for its breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and ability to regulate body temperature. Merino is itch-free and odor resistant so you can reduce your packing by wearing merino day after day without smelling. Winning!

New Zealand is home to some of the best quality Merino brands in the world, Ice Breaker and Mons Royale, that will last for years and make you look like a legit outdoor adventurer on the mountain.

Clothing Essentials

Clothes

New Zealand's weather is 'predictably unpredictable' and the weather can change abruptly. Ideally you will need only two sets of clothes, one for hiking in and another dry & warm set for evenings.

1. Base Layer - Base layers are worn directly against the skin to remove moisture and resist odor. Base layers consist of underwear and thermal tops and bottoms.

2. First Layer - The next layer will consist of your t-shirts or long-sleeved tees. Including bottoms of choice either pants, shorts, or leggings.

3. Mid-Layer - The mid-layer is designed to keep you warm and trap in heat (Merino Hoodie, Down or Fleece Jacket).

4. Outer Layer - Finally, the outer layer will protect you from the elements (Rain Jacket and Pants).

Extras

1. Beanie and Gloves - If you are hiking the alpine trails, it can get cold at night and early morning, so consider taking a beanie and gloves.

2. Sun Hat & Sunglasses - Is a must to protect you from New Zealand's harsh sun. The burn time in NZ is very short so don't forget sunscreen.

3. Gaiters - Many of the crew hike only in shorts and will add long gaiters if encountering rain, mud (Hump Ridge /Rakiura Tracks) or snow (some alpine tracks). Gaiters also help keep the debris out of your shoes/boots.

4. Swimming Gear - there are lots of amazing places to swim on most tracks which is great as the huts don't have showers. Don't forget a towel.

Rain Gear

Great Walks in Fiordland (Milford, Routeburn, Kepler, Hump Ridge) receive a high amount of rainfall. No matter which Great Walk you choose always pack good quality rain gear to keep you dry even if the weather forecast looks ok.

Look for rain gear that is:

waterproof, packable, lightweight,

and breathable. If the jacket is too heavy or insulated you could get really hot hiking and sweat inside your jacket, also politely known as 'body rain'. Look for a jacket with good vents to help manage your temperature.

Many hikers forego rain pants to avoid overheating in the warmer months and are happy to hike in shorts, a jacket, & gaiters if needed.

Check Out Clothing Options

TIPS

1. It is really easy to over pack so keep it simple. Have a set of hiking clothes and one set of warm and dry evening clothes. Feel free to pack extra undies though...

2. Merino gear is great and you can wear it day after day without washing and it will not stink, so it's perfect for all the layers against your skin. And yep that includes underwear! Once you start wearing Merino underwear you will never go back.

3. Money is well spent on a quality rain jacket. You are probably going to get wet. Some jackets can be quite fitted so consider getting a jacket big enough so you can layer underneath to manage your temperature. Many of us get really hot when hiking so prefer a light jacket shell (i.e no insulation) and just layer when we need more warmth.

4. Ponchos - some hikers use rain ponchos to prevent rain going down their back and getting the contents of their pack wet. We tried Ponchos on The Milford Track but found them to be a pain and very noisy in the windy weather, so have not used them again. Put all your gear in dry bags, use a pack cover, and carry a good waterproof rain jacket and you can't go wrong.