Gear for Te Araroa

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Walking the length of New Zealand is an epic journey — and the gear you carry can make or break the experience. Whether you’re going ultralight or comfort-focused, having the right gear for Te Araroa’s wildly varied terrain and weather is essential.

This guide covers everything you need, from footwear to first aid.

Included On This Page:

Backpack
Tent
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Stove
Cooking pots (coming soon)
Shoes (coming soon)

Clothes (coming soon)
Essential Gear (coming soon)
Extras You’ll Probably Want (coming soon)
Optional: Bounce Box Gear (coming soon)
Final Tips

Backpack

Your backpack is one of the top three most important items you will carry. It will carry all your gear and keep it dry, while not breaking your back in the process.

Read how to choose a lightweight hiking backpack.

Our recommended packs for women Te Araroa:

Our recommended packs for men on Te Araroa:

Tent

Your tent is one of the top three most important items you will carry. It will keep you warm, dry, and able to withstand windy nights.

Read how to choose a lightweight backpacking tent.

Our recommended tents for Te Araroa:

Sleeping Bag

Of course, you want the best ultralight sleeping bag so you can stay warm and cozy, while also not carrying around heaps of weight

Read how to choose a lightweight sleeping bag.

Our recommended sleeping bags for Te Araroa:

Sleeping Pad

Of course, you want the best ultralight sleeping bag so you can stay warm and cozy, while also not carrying around heaps of weight

Read how to choose a lightweight sleeping pad.

Our recommended sleeping pads for Te Araroa:

Stove

Lightweight camping stoves are one of the most important items you will carry. It will ensure you are well fed and energised for the next day’s journey.

Read how to choose a lightweight camping stove.

Our recommended camping stoves for Te Araroa:

Final Tips

Te Araroa throws every kind of weather and terrain at you: muddy forests, alpine passes, road walks, river crossings, and beach sections. Your gear must be lightweight but reliable.

Test your gear before the trail. Hike in the rain. Camp in the wind. Get familiar with your shelter and stove.

Dial in your system, carry only what you need, and you’ll be far more comfortable and confident on the trail.