As part of the Women’s Issue of Adventure this August, we took a deep dive into the world of women’s tramping and hiking. We reached out to an inspiring and diverse group of women adventurers, from seasoned trekkers to weekend wanderers, to uncover the heart and soul of their journeys. We asked them the questions that matter: Why do they hike? Where do they go to find their solace? And with whom do they choose to share these moments of wilderness?
Their answers revealed not just the physical landscapes they traverse, but the emotional and spiritual ones as well. These stories capture the essence of connection. Each tale is a testament to the enduring power of the trail, where every step taken leads to new discoveries, both outside and within. These are their stories:
Tramping Profile: Louise, Age 30
Region: Northland (formerly Dunedin, South Island)
Tramping Experience: 5 years
Why do you tramp, and what does it give you?
Tramping strips away the stress of everyday life, especially during overnight hikes. It reduces your responsibilities to the basics—water, food, shelter, and getting safely from A to B. All those endless to-do lists, emails, and other daily tasks just melt away. Plus, it gives you access to breathtaking places you might never see otherwise. The Department of Conservation and other organizations do an incredible job maintaining an extensive network of tracks and huts, making it a privilege to explore these hidden gems. There’s a thrill in knowing you could spend your life hiking every weekend and still not see it all—it’s exciting and sometimes overwhelming.
Most Memorable Tramp:
- First Solo Overnight in Silverpeaks: This wasn’t the hardest hike, but it was my first solo overnight, and that made it special. As soon as the sun set, I realized being alone in the dark still scares me, but the sense of accomplishment outweighed any fear.
- Dingleburn Track: This hike pushed me to my limits—long days, freezing nights, and numerous river crossings. But the sense of achievement was unmatched. I learned some tough lessons the hard way, like the importance of a good head torch and waterproofing your gear. It’s the mistakes that teach you the most.
Challenges as a Woman Tramper:
I’ve always felt safe, but I know that’s not the case for everyone. Simple precautions like having an emergency contact and carrying a PLB are a must. The biggest challenge I face isn’t physical—it’s the assumptions people make. More than once, people (especially when I’m hiking alone or with other women) have assumed I’m inexperienced or out of my depth. One time, an older woman lectured my friend and me on how “irresponsible” we were for hiking in shorts and t-shirts, even though we were perfectly prepared. It’s frustrating when people act as gatekeepers instead of being supportive.
Advice for New Trampers:
Don’t wait for someone to take you—if you want to do it, go for it! Start small and familiar, push your boundaries safely, and have a Plan B. Be open to advice, but also trust yourself. Too often, we let fear hold us back from amazing experiences. And remember, making mistakes is part of the journey. Learn from them and keep moving forward.
Hiking Communities:
I haven’t joined any in-person groups, but online communities like the ‘Wāhine Tramping and Hiking NZ’ group on Facebook are great. It’s a safe, supportive space for women to ask questions and find local hiking buddies. The ‘Tramping in New Zealand’ Facebook page is another option, though it can be a bit more intimidating and judgmental at times.
Louise’s tramping journey is a testament to the power of self-reliance and the joy of exploring New Zealand’s wild places. From overcoming fears on solo hikes to pushing her limits on challenging tracks, she’s a reminder that the adventure is out there—you just have to go and find it.
