Be aware of daylight saving when enjoying the outdoors

Be aware of daylight saving when enjoying the outdoors this Easter

Easter weekend is a popular time for New Zealanders to get out and enjoy everything our great outdoors has to offer. As part of preparation for outdoor adventures, the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (MSC) recommends planning for reduced daylight and changeable autumn weather.

MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley says while Easter is a great chance to venture out with friends and family, it is easy to forget about the time difference when enjoying yourself in the outdoors.

“Clocks fall back by an hour on Easter Sunday, which means the sun will set around 6pm on Monday, rather than7pm. You need to be prepared and plan your trip around these times so you don’t get stuck in the dark.

“Every year we hear stories where people have been caught out with the change of clocks and they find themselves still on the track as the sun sets. This is very common on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.”

Although MetService is currently anticipating spells of fine weather over the weekend, Mr Daisley says anyone heading into the outdoors should prepare for changeable autumn conditions by having the right gear on hand and checking the weather forecast again before departure.

“If the weekend starts off sunny, it may not stay that way. A lot of people get caught out without sufficient gear at this time of year, especially on the longer day walks like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

“It’s best to be prepared for all situations. Make sure you have the right equipment like head torches on hand, as well as clothing for a range of conditions.”

He said there are several tools online that can streamline the planning process for people looking to head outdoors. He recommended the Outdoors Intentions form on www.adventuresmart.org.nz as an easy way to record and communicate your intended route and return time to a trusted contact, and www.metservice.com for checking your local weather report before you leave.

Mr Daisley suggested people visit the MSC website www.mountainsafety.org.nz for free safety tips and other resources to help plan their journey, and encouraged people to remember the five simple rules of the Outdoor Safety Code – plan your trip, tell someone, be aware of the weather, know your limits and take sufficient supplies – before heading out over Easter Weekend.

--ENDS—

© Scoop Media