8. Cost
The best time to walk Te Araroa | Choosing a direction | How long it takes | Fitness and experience | Permits and fees | Accommodation | Clothing and equipment | Cost | Visas | Safety precautions | Fishing | Resupplying and food parcels | Getting to and from Cape Reinga | Getting to and from Bluff | Stewart Island Rakiura | Taking my dog, bike, horse | Navigating
Plan to start with enough money to safely enjoy the entire journey.This means, before you start, you have enough money to buy equipment and transport along the way. You will also need money for living expenses along the way. Many trampers will also have home-related expenses while they are away.
There is a lot to consider with clothing and equipment. First think about function and safety. Then consider weight. This will help with choosing gear. Previous walkers suggest you will need NZD$13,500 for a 5-month through-walk, which will cover all accommodation, food, transfers and some indulgence when visiting trail towns. It is recommended to allow a generous contingency for unforeseen expenses like replacing equipment replacement or staying longer in a town due to weather or injury.
Don't scrimp on essential equipment like personal locator beacons. These are critical in the case of injury or emergency. It's better to delay your trip until you have enough money to cover all expenses.
People who try to walk Te Araroa on a very small budget do create unease for locals along the route. We strongly advise against freedom camping in unauthorised areas, and where we ask that you are mindful of supporting local businesses, many of which pay a concession to DOC for the right to operate on the DOC estate. Collectively, all walkers are tarnished with the same brush from the behaviours of a few. Please respect the trail, land owners requests and the businesses that are there to support you.
If you wish to walk Te Araroa on a budget of less than NZD$10,000 then this walk may not be appropriate.
