Hi, thanks for the comments. I am now on the map (in the middle of the ocean) but I seem to be the only one. This is not surprising based on the number of news reports we get of hikers going out with no supplies and climbers regularly getting trapped on the mountains. Even a cursory glance at this site makes it clear to me that being prepared really doesn't take much effort, nor much money. In the first instance it's all about thinking about possible danger or problems- some of which you can avoid by taking gear you already have. After that it's about having extra stuff just in case, and having some idea what to do with it.

Aside from floods and earthquakes the biggest hazard is the weather. It can change from bright summer's day to icy winter chill in less than an hour. We have no land masses to protect us from incoming weather systems, so it can be hot and humid with a breeze from the NW (from Australia) and then bitter cold with a southerly all the way in from Antarctica.

Yes, the people are friendly, and it's a great place to visit. In Australia there are many things that would like to eat you (or at least give you a nasty nip). Here in NZ it's the elements that want to do you in, although I think readers of this site would have no worries.

A