What we’re about
Gone Bush is about spending quality time together outdoors in Auckland and Beyond for anyone aged 40 plus.
We will have something for everyone to enjoy, on our Events , if you're a Hiking and Nature Walking Enthusiast , or simply want to become one, in the company of other people with similar interests.
We offer regular Guided Outdoors Activities, and Occasionally some Indoor Events you may want to get away into the Backcountry of Auckland and Beyond to the Waikato and Northland Regions.
Generally I like to help you learn something about the things that we see along the way, that many other walking and hiking groups, rush pass. We will identify trees, and plants and birds, slowing down and looking around, practicing mindfulness sometimes together, helps to make a deeper emotional connection with the land, and the other members who want to know what's special about New Zealand's native trees within our forests ..the historical sites, and other fascinating things you'll soon discover that makes hiking with us uniquely different, from others, it's that quality time that is our main focus .. and hopefully yours too.
We leave the other faster paced groups to knocking off lots of miles, and climbing big mountains quickly..so please let go into the mystery as my favourite singer Van Morrison sings..
As well, as these weekend events, we will have some mid week Urban Walks, which are a good way, to get some fresh air, and mix with others , away from the home or office, or other responsibilities you may have.
Membership is Free to Join . You Must Have a Clear Easily Recognizable Face Picture of Yourself without Wearing Sunglasses or a Hat. This helps to keep the group honest and safe , and also assists with Transportation to our Events, as Members use their own Cars, and Carry Members as Passengers . If you join us, you'll quickly understand the importance of this Membership Rule, and others you must Answer to be a Member of Gone Bush.
As your Organiser - Guide, I've been successfully bringing people together on Meet Up, for many years, as I'm the Founder of Feet First, and Intrepid Walking Groups, now at the helm of Gone Bush, for members 40 plus ..I have the Knowledge + Skills + Extensive Practice, combined with 20 plus years of Experience Guiding Hiking Groups in Aucklands Wilderness, Waitakere Ranges and other places you will visit with us on Gone Bush.
The Important Parts .
Clothing Essentials & Hiking Gear
If you're playing rugby, gumboots aren't recommended. NZ weather conditions in New Zealand, including Auckland and Beyond, change several times throughout the day and year. Synthetic or Wool will Maintain Body Warmth. Ensure you are either wearing polypropylene or fleece, and preferably merino wool Base layers , or have these in your backpack on our Events.
Plus - Waterproof Jacket or Coat & Optional Windproof Overtrousers or Wool Leggings.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes or preferably Boots.
Hiking Poles, one or two, help with downhill walking on slippery tracks, and support the back and feet.
Use Waterproof Pack Liner or a Simple Plastic Bag to carry dry clothes to keep warm, cool , depending on the weather conditions.
Wool Hat and Gloves, are helpful in Winter Walking..Yes it happens sometimes.
Be sure you have a Hiking/Tramping Backpack that ideally has a waist belt, and is durable and waterproof for NZ Weather.
Food & Water -
Should be nutritious and include protein and fats, and carbs . Carry extra snacks for energy and eat regularly. Water - Drink plenty of fluids.
First Aid - Small Cuts happen. Carry Sticking Plasters, and any personal meds. An emergency silver blanket is small, and could help keep you warm.
Carry additional items such as a small torch and spare batteries, a whistle, and a thermos of hot tea or soup is ideal for winter walking.
On the Day at Carpark - Before we Hike , We have an Introduction Circle and Collection for Website etc. We do Random Gear Checks for all of the Above, particularly Rain Jacket and Wool Base Layers for June and July and August.. and if you're not prepared, we don't carry extra for you.
Accidents Happen Mostly in Winter because Members aren't prepared for NZ Weather Conditions. Tune in, now, and consider why you want to hike or walk with us , and what you are able to invest in, perhaps new boots , or a new day hiking pack, at least 15 to 30 litres, to carry your personal equipment, dry clothes, extra food etc.
Having a casual attitude, and not coming prepared , affects the Group, as a whole, Stop and Think before you leave home, Check your backpack contents and be safe for everyone, and let's make our Meet Up Group, Gone Bush, about safety in the mountains, in the bush , and in our own suburbs.
Like many people that join us, you may be involved with other Meet Up Groups too, or brand new to Meet Up.
Recently this long standing American based company, that was founded in early 2006, changed hands, and is now in Europe, Italy, to be exact. As such , Fees for the Website Hosting Meet Up Groups in New Zealand, and in other countries around the world, for Organizers, has tripled in costs, so participating in our Gone Bush Events, everyone must pay on the Hiking Events you attend, more details about this on the Events you wish to Attend.
We will help with tips on how to make the most of your quality time outdoors together with us and others on Gone Bush Events.
You may want to bring friends along too, so please get them to join us, as we do not allow guests to attend, unless they too are Gone Bush Members, this helps keep everyone informed and happy , well prepared and safe, to enjoy getting outdoors in Aucklands wilderness.
We trust you join us, for our guided Gone Bush Members Events soon.
A new Meet Up Walking Group , for anyone who is Over 40, dedicated to Quality Time and the Enjoyment of the Outdoors.