Growing up in the rugged beauty of Mount Richmond Forest Park, I was fortunate to spend my formative years in what is now one of the most challenging sections of the Te Araroa Trail. As a teenager, my weekends were often spent summiting peaks like Mount Rintoul, exploring the park’s pristine wilderness long before the Te Araroa Trail was even conceived. Living on the park’s edge meant that adventure was always at my doorstep.
These early experiences not only nurtured my love for the outdoors but also laid the foundation for my career in international adventure racing. Over the years, I’ve traversed every section of the trail within the Mount Richmond Forest Park, stayed in every hut numerous times, and developed a lifelong connection to this incredible place.
It’s here that I’ve also raised my three children, sharing with them the same epic adventures I enjoyed growing up. Together, we’ve explored the park in every season, from lush summers to snow-covered winters, creating a deep bond with the wilderness. Even after 35 years, the park continues to inspire and bring joy to my family.
As an outdoor enthusiast and advocate, I’m passionate about helping others enjoy these landscapes responsibly. That drive also led to founding Real Meals, which aims to provide adventurers with nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-prepare food. If you’re considering taking on the Te Araroa Trail, here are some tips and insights to help make your journey memorable.
Essential Gear for the Te Araroa
Your gear can make or break your experience on the trail. Here’s my recommended packing list:
Clothing (Preferred Brand: RAB Gear)
- Socks (2 pairs): Bridgedale Hike Mid Merino Com-Fit (1 for walking, 1 for camping)
- Shorts: Nike running shorts (lined, with pockets)
- Thermal Tights: RAB Syncrino Leggings
- Tee Shirt: RAB Sonic Tee (quick-drying fabric)
- Thermal Long Sleeve Top: RAB Syncrino Base LS Tee
- Mid-Weight Fleece: RAB Alpha Flash Jacket
- Puffer Jacket: RAB Infinity Microlight Down Jacket
- Rain Jacket: RAB Namche GORE-TEX Jacket
- Rain Pants: RAB Downpour Eco Waterproof Pants
- Buff
- Gloves: RAB Power Stretch Pro Gloves
Footwear & Accessories
- Boots: Salewa Men’s Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX
- Trekking Poles: Black Diamond Z-poles
- Gaiters: RAB Kangri GORE-TEX
Personal Essentials
- Sunglasses
- First Aid Kit (including painkillers, injury strapping, a PLB, fire-starting tools, emergency blanket, and repair tape)
- Mobile Phone and Battery Bank
- Toothbrush and paste
Navigation
Map and Compass
Cooking Gear
MSR Windburner Duo Stove System (1.8L with fuel and flint)
Spoon, cup, and knife
Lighting
Headlamp: Fenix HM65R-T (with charger)
Hydration
Hydration Bladder: Platypus 3.0L
Backpack
Lowe Alpine Cerro Torre 80:100L Trekking Pack
Sleeping System
Sleeping Bag: RAB Mythic 400 Down (-6°C)
Sleeping Mat: NeoAir® XTherm™ NXT
Pillow: Air Head™ Pillow
Dry Bag / Pack Liner
Shelter
Tent: MSR Access™ 2 (Four-Season)
Food and Nutrition for the Te Araroa
Food is your fuel, and eating well is key to staying strong on the trail.
My Food Choices:
Breakfast: Real Meals Bircher Muesli, paired with coffee brewed using my lightweight HARIO V60 Drip Filter.
Lunch: Crackers with cheese, sardines, or salami. Occasionally, I’ll have a Real Meal like the Cheesy Mash.
Dinner: My go-to is Real Meals Sri Lankan Curry or Mac ’n’ Cheese from the Youth Range (I love adding extra melted cheese for texture).
Snacks: Salted nuts, chocolate, dried fruit, energy bars, and Fruit Hitz pouches.
Emergency Rations: Extra Real Meals, such as Basmati Rice, for unforeseen delays.
Fuel Your Te Araroa Adventure with Real Meals
Embarking on the Te Araroa Trail is a journey of endurance and discovery, and having the right fuel is essential to keep you energized and thriving every step of the way. Real Meals offers a variety of lightweight, nutritious, and easy-to-prepare options that are perfect for the trail.
Convenient Ways to Stock Up on Real Meals
Local Retailers
We’re proud to have an extensive network of retailers across New Zealand who stock Real Meals. From outdoor shops to specialty stores, our products are easy to find, and the list of stockists is growing all the time. Check out the retailer map on our website to locate the nearest store along your trail route.
Online Ordering with Trail Delivery
Planning your resupply stops? Order Real Meals online and have them shipped to addresses along the Te Araroa Trail for convenient pickup. Whether it’s a friend’s place, a trail angel, or a hostel, we make it simple to keep your backpack stocked without carrying everything from day one.
Highlights of the Te Araroa Trail
Every section of the trail offers something unique, but here are a few must-visit highlights:
- Richmond Ranges: A challenging yet rewarding stretch with breathtaking alpine views.
- Whanganui River Journey: A serene paddling experience through lush river landscapes.
- Canterbury High Country: Sweeping tussock plains and dramatic mountain vistas.
- Bluff: The iconic southern terminus—a triumphant finish to the journey.
Tips for a Successful Journey
- Pace Yourself: Enjoy the trail without rushing.
- Plan Ahead: Study trail notes and check weather forecasts regularly.
- Build Trail Fitness: Train with multi-day hikes carrying a loaded pack.
- Embrace Flexibility: Be prepared for detours and delays—they’re part of the adventure.
Navigation and Environmental Responsibility
Navigation Tips:
- Always carry a paper map and compass.
- Use GPS sparingly; batteries can fail.
- Pay close attention to markers, which can be sparse in certain areas.
Environmental Care:
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all rubbish, including food scraps.
- Respect Huts: Keep them clean and follow DOC hut etiquette.
- Stick to the Trail: Avoid damaging vegetation by creating new paths.
The Te Araroa is more than just a trail—it’s a journey through Aotearoa’s diverse landscapes and rich culture. With proper preparation, a sense of adventure, and respect for the environment, it’s an experience that will stay with you forever.
Safe travels and happy hiking!
– Nathan Fa’avae
