We’re proud to partner with Earth Sea Sky, a locally owned, New Zealand based, family company renowned for designing and manufacturing high-quality technical outdoor clothing – all in made in New Zealand. Their support ensures our Tiaki Rangers are equipped to be out on Te Araroa in all conditions, rain or shine!
Who are the Tiaki Rangers?
Our Tiaki Rangers are the guardians of Te Araroa. They’re present on the trail to monitor the tracks and provide information or help to walkers. Their role is hands-on and often in remote, challenging conditions. Having the right gear isn’t a luxury – it’s essential for their safety and effectiveness.
Earth Sea Sky
Earth Sea Sky provides our rangers with technical walking gear built for durability, comfort, and protection. This includes base layers, mid-layers, and outer shell, each playing a vital role in keeping our team safe and effective on the trail
Power Wool T: the perfect blend of natural comfort and technical performance. Made with a merino–synthetic mix, the bicomponent polyester provides the wicking and fast drying and the merino odour control. Uses Power Wool®, a unique fabric from Polartec® . This will maximise hygiene, warmth, wicking and next-to-skin comfort. Works well off trail as a tidy street wear Tee.
Whipper Zip-through: an excellent mid-layer hoody for big days on the trail. Constructed from USA-made Polartec® Power Grid®. Very durable, tough enough for Te Araroa, but light enough to carry from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Can be worn as a technical next-to-skin base layer with exceptional moisture transfer properties or as a warm, low-bulk, durable, mid-layer and doubles as casual street wear.
Note: the Polartec® fabrics used in the base and mid layers are a specialised mechanical construction that lasts the long life of the garment. Cheaper options use a chemical process which will, in time, wear off. This system allows rangers to add or remove layers as conditions shift, maintaining comfort and reducing fatigue.
Layering is the Key
Layering isn’t just about staying comfortable, warm and dry – it’s about adaptability. Weather on Te Araroa can change quickly, and rangers often work in remote areas where comfort and safety are critical. Here’s how layering helps:
- Base Layer: Wicks moisture away from the skin, keeping you dry during strenuous work. Keeping dry means you retain heat in cold weather and in warm weather remain comfortable.
- Mid Layer: Provides insulation to retain body heat without restricting movement. Allows moisture to move through to the protection layer
- Outer Layer: Shields against wind and rain, ensuring protection in harsh conditions.
On the Trail
Thanks to Earth Sea Sky, our Tiaki Rangers can focus on what matters most – being present on trail and ensuring walkers have the best possible journey. Their Earth Sea Sky gear is a game-changer keeping them comfortable and protected in whatever weather Te Araroa throws their way.
Want to grab some Earth Sea Sky gear for yourself?
We love working with Earth Sea Sky. Their gear is designed for durability and comfort – perfect for the diverse terrain of Te Araroa. They created a range of special Te Araroa items – Shop the range now and support the trail with every purchase.
