June 14, 2022
New Zealand is prime territory for adventures in the wild, with vast landscapes, beautiful waterways, and picturesque hiking trails. But the ‘wild’ in Aotearoa’s wilderness can be slightly intimidating for those curious about outdoor activities for beginners.
We’re here to tell you that Aotearoa has something for everyone. But if you need a little convincing before dipping your toe into New Zealand’s adventurous waters, just think about the crisp fresh air, warm sun, and natural highs the outdoors can give you!
There’s nothing like a day in nature’s bounty to invigorate the senses, soak up essential vitamin D, and lower your cortisol levels. Get the heart pumping with a rock-climbing adventure, or a paddle around the bays, or calm the nerves with a gentle hike in birdsong-laden native bush.
You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy the fruits of an outdoor wilderness adventure, you just need to know a few tips and tricks!
Reach new heights and crush your goals with an introductory rock climbing course! Rock Climbing is a great outdoor activity for beginners climbing onto the adventure ladder. It has so many levels to choose from, so you can start your journey feeling safe and secure.
Leave it to the professionals to find you a rock to face with utter confidence. Learn the basics and put them into practice under the guidance of a seasoned climber. You’ll build confidence and get stronger by pushing your physical and mental boundaries!
It’s hard to find a more peaceful way to spend your day than a paddle out on the water. While all the chat about oars, rudders and skirts might seem daunting, hopping in a kayak is a simple outdoor activity for beginners wanting a little tranquillity in their day. Here are some tips to get you started!
A sit-on kayak is a great way to wade into the world of kayaking—although if you have any luck, you’ll be staying in the boat rather than in the water! If you’re a nervous paddler, a sit-on kayak is best as it’s stable and easy to get in and out of. Sitting on top of the kayak is the best way to experience the awesome sense of freedom as you slice through the water!
You can still try your luck with a sit-in kayak, just don’t be intimidated by the foot pedals, and give it a miss if you’re a bit claustrophobic!
A good paddle stroke makes kayaking a breezy experience. Paddling efficiently means you control the kayak; the kayak doesn’t control you! It sounds strange, but the first thing to think about is how you’re sitting. Try to anchor your lower body for a stable base while you remain loose in your upper body. This technique means you have a greater range of movement for your paddle stroke, and a strong powerhouse to drive a strong stroke!
The right outfit for the outdoors is key. Trust us when we say that the right clothing and correctly packing your gear will make or break a good day in the wilderness.
Pack away your belongings in watertight canvas, or even a solid Ziplock bag will do the trick. Clothes-wise, togs are a good start, as are breathable and light fabrics. A top tip for not just kayaking, but any outdoor activities for beginners, is to avoid denim at all costs. You’ll thank us later.
It’s not just a kid’s sport, it’s just a fun sport. Boogie boarding is exciting, accessible, and relatively easy to get the hang of. All you need is a board, some waves, and a good sense of timing to gather speed alongside the white horses of the waves.
New Zealand has a bunch of awesome boogie boarding spots, including Bethell’s Beach, Kariotahe Beach, and even Piha for the brave among us. If you’re keen to board with a professional and get a little adventure on the side, why not try Social Nature Movement’s Bethells Boogie?
Tramping is a quintessential Kiwi pastime, otherwise known as hiking in the rest of the globe! It’s a good thing New Zealand has some of the world’s most beautiful walks, ranging from expert to easy. If you’re looking for outdoor activities for beginners wanting to get back to nature rather than summit Aoraki, trust Tāmaki Makaurau to give you options galore.
You could try a simple two-hour jaunt or go hard and fast with a full day out in the wild!
Getting into outdoor activities for beginners can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re keen to experience everything Aotearoa has to offer and delve into land, river, and sea, Social Nature Movement is a great place to start.
We have a range of kayaking courses, rock climbing classes, and hiking tours available to book. Put your trust in professional wilderness coaches and learn the ropes of the outdoors. Get in touch with us today to find your next adventure!
email support@snm.nz or call us on 0800 76 62 66
