A new video series of 16 popular tracks, including the Roys Peak Track, have been launched by NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) to help make planning safe tramping adventures easier.

The free Virtual Track Guides feature tracks across New Zealand, from Cape Brett Track and Te Whara Track in Northland to Roys Peak Track, and other Otago tracks including the Greenstone and the Caples.

“We’ve selected a mix of day trips, overnight hikes and multi-day tramps across the range of track categories, from easy through to advanced,” MSC chief executive Mike Daisley said. 

“Each trip has its own unique safety considerations, and requires quality planning and preparation.”

The videos bring the trips to life using animated fly-overs enhanced with graphics and expert commentary from the MSC team. 

Each video provides an overview of the route, highlighting the terrain and track conditions, potential hazards and seasonal factors, along with the necessary gear and safety information unique to each one.

“The videos are packed with essential details and really show what each track is like, and the skills, gear and planning needed to tackle them safely,” Mike said.

The series is available free on Plan My Walk, YouTube and the Department of Conservation website, as well as through other organisations in the outdoors sector.

“We want to make these guides as accessible as possible, so more people can plan safe outdoor adventures,” Mike said.

MSC, alongside other agencies, also launched a safety video for the Brewster Track recently, following a significant increase in rescues and two deaths in the last five years.

Read more: Hazardous popular track subject of video

The Virtual Track Guides complement MSC’s existing NZ Hiking and Tramping Video Series, also available for free on Plan My Walk and YouTube.

PHOTO: Supplied