River Crossing Training

 New Zealand has dangerous rivers. You need to know what to do to cross them safely.

So, a little training goes a long way.

Karl and I spent a full Saturday with Outdoor Training NZ in the Karangahake Gorge learning the basics.

Ask yourself these 4 questions...

1. Do I need to cross?  

There may be a suitable bridge not too far away (check your topographical map).

2. Is it safe to cross?

Identify hazards, such as trees downstream that might trap you and other debris.

Throw a stick into the flow of the stream. If it is moving faster than you can walk and is above your knee in depth .

3. Where can we cross?

Slow moving part of the stream, safe depth and a suitable 'out point' on the opposite side.

4. How will we cross?

Linked position between pack and each others backs. Use of a pole to make a third leg upstream. (see photos).

There is plenty more that could be written here. We are much wiser thanks to this training day.