The WTMC bushcraft course is an introduction to tramping in Aotearoa. Our course is run on an ad-hoc basis for the benefit our members only. We are not a commercial provider for the general public.
WTMC Bushcraft 2023
The bushcraft course for 2023 will be lead by Kevin Cole over two theory sessions and one practical weekend:
Wednesday 22 November, 5:30 – 7pm, TTC Club Rooms
Wednesday 29 November, 5:30 – 9pm, TTC Club Rooms
Friday 1 December – Sunday 3 December, Paua Hut
Spaces: maximum 10 — members only
Cost: $90
Sign-up closes: 1 November 2023
Audience
The course is aimed at club members wishing to expand their skill-set/competencies toward more advanced trips and/or trip leading.
Delivery
The course is split between two theory nights, plus a weekend based at Paua hut in the Rimutaka Forest Park.
You’ll be participating in lots of practical activities, staying overnight in the bush, with the choice of sleeping in the hut or under a tarp. Each day will involve 2-3 hours of tramping.
The course is run by experienced Club members.
Course Structure
The course content covers
- Trip planning
- Map reading
- Navigation (map & compass)
- Navigation aids
- Weather
- Knots
- Gear, including emergency kids
- River ready & safety
- Stoves
- Hazards / risks / decision making traps
- Emergency procedures
- Emergency shelters
- Hypothermia
- Fire lighting
- Hygiene & water
Equipment
Participants will require a tramping compass for the navigation class and weekend. We would suggest a ‘Silva Ranger’ for more serious navigators (approximately $60-80 Bivouac/Gearshop/Dwights), but for those not yet certain, a ‘Campmaster compass’ from Burnsco/Mitre 10 is perfectly Adequate ($12-17). Try to avoid additional dials and unnecessary features. NB: We would not recommend the short/squat baseplate versions or anything with mirrors.
Enrolment and Enquiries
Any enquiries can be emailed to chiefguide@wtmc.org.nz.