Stay Clear of Summer FailuresThis Season
This summer in Aotearoa, New Zealand, the popularity of outdoor recreation activities such as tramping, hiking, bush walking, mountain biking, mountaineering, and trail running has seen a significant surge. According to recent statistics, nearly 13% more adults are expected to participate in these activities compared to the pre-pandemic year of 2019.
With this increased participation comes a potential rise in injuries. It is estimated that approximately 3,000 people will be injured tramping this summer, with the injuries categorised into three categories: minor, moderate, and severe.
The majority of the anticipated injuries are expected to be minor, with around 1,800 cases likely due to soft tissue damage, such as rolling the feet or twisting the knees, caused by increased physical activity and possibly competitive sports conditions that strain joints and muscles.
About 1,200 moderate injuries are expected, often due to trips and falls resulting in minor fractures or head knocks. It's worth noting that these injuries, while more serious than minor ones, are not typically life-threatening.
The most concerning category is severe injuries, with around 160 cases expected this summer. These injuries are primarily due to slips, trips, and falls on rough and uneven terrain.
In terms of Search and Rescue (SAR) callouts, it's estimated that there will be approximately 170 callouts involving about 270 trampers, hunters, mountain bikers, mountaineers, or trail runners. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is expected to have the most SAR callouts this summer, with around 30 people needing SAR support over the three summer months.
The popularity of tramping in Aotearoa is such that it surpasses many traditional sports and most other recreational outdoor activities. In 2021, over 1.14 million NZ adults went tramping, making it one of the most popular recreation activities in the country.
As the summer season approaches, it's essential for participants to prioritise safety, be well-prepared, and adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace to minimise the risk of injuries and ensure the preservation of our beautiful landscapes for future generations to enjoy.
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