Tararua Fever is back! And today we're diving straight into an episode that's all about one of the few things every tramper hopes they'll never need — search and rescue.
We begin by catching up with Graeme from TrailOff, who joins us to share the story of a day trip in the Tararua Ranges that ended with a broken ankle, a helicopter rescue, and a whole new perspective on being prepared in the hills. It's an honest conversation about how quickly things can change, even on a straightforward trip, and the lessons he's taken away from the experience.
Following on from that, we catch up with Alex Waterworth from New Zealand Land Search and Rescue. We lift the curtain on what actually happens when someone needs help in the backcountry, from the first emergency call through to the volunteers heading into the bush. Alex also shares practical advice on preparation, common mistakes, personal locator beacons, and what makes the Tararua Ranges such a uniquely challenging place to carry out rescues.
To round things out, Al returns with another tramping question in another instalment of What's it Al About? This time we're talking trip preparation — how to decide where you're going, what to take with you, and some of the simple planning that can make all the difference before you even leave home.
Whether you're new to tramping or you've been exploring the Tararuas for decades, we hope this episode leaves you a little better prepared for your next adventure and a taste of the Fever!
Remember, you can get in touch with your tramp stories, suggestions, complaints, or lavish praise via our DMs on Instagram and Facebook. You can also email us on tararua.fever@gmail.com.
We'd love to hear from you!
If you'd like to watch the TrailOff video that inspired our conversation with Graeme, you can find it here:
TrailOff – Broken ankle in the Tararua Ranges: https://youtu.be/_zGjS-hH9M0?si=Cu-xP8dMPxVxxdiP
Useful Resources:
Mountain Safety Council: www.mountainsafety.org.nz
New Zealand Land Search & Rescue – Prevention: www.landsar.org.nz/prevent/
Volunteer with New Zealand Land Search & Rescue: www.landsar.org.nz/volunteer/
Key Safety Reminders from LandSAR:
Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return.
Check the weather forecast and track conditions before heading out.
Carry warm clothing, food, and emergency equipment.
Take a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite communicator (such as an InReach).
Know how to use your equipment before you need it.
If you're injured or lost, don't wait too long to activate your PLB.
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