Mangawhai Walking Weekend - Walking Grades

Walking Grades

Grade 1
Components of walks listed at this level:

They will be flat
They will have lots of stops for information and viewing
They will last at least 3hrs so the walker needs to be able to stand for that length of time
They will be about 5kms or less
Prepare by walking round the neighbourhood for at least a couple of weeks beforehand.

Grade 2
Components of this walks listed at this level:

They will be mainly flat
There may be a little climb
There will be time to stop, listen and enjoy the information or views
They may last 3-4hrs or longer. Take the E-scape walk for example. It is flat but it can take the 5hrs so the walker needs to able to keep upright for that length of time
Prepare by going for several 3hr walks before arriving for the weekend

Grade 3
Components of walks listed at this level:

These walks are longer up to 10ks
There will be some small hill climbs
On cross country where the walk is over farms there will be some uneven terrain where the cows hoofs have left dips and holes
Ankles need to be watched
The walker will experience farm gates and electric fences
The time is generally up to the 5hrs
Prepare by going for several 5hr walks before the event

Grade 4
Components of the walk listed at this level

Grade 5
Components of the walk at this level:

The Brynderwyn Walkway is the only one at this level
Extreme fitness is required for this walk.
Long track walking experience is also required
The terrain is steep in parts, but it is the length that can claim the bodies and footwear of walkers
It is a solid hard 7 hrs of tramping
3L of water needed
Walkers have to choose their own stops for water and snacks
All meet for lunch
Prior training incorporating the distance and time involved needed