Climbers are advised to hire a commercial guide or contact a local alpine club before setting out. The Waitomo Caves , whose 'Lost World' cave can be abseiled into through shafts of sunlight, are the most visited. Cycle helmets are compulsory and most buses, if not all trains, allow bicycles on board. New Zealand has over 400 golf courses. Green fees are relatively low compared to other countries.
Most clubs welcome visitors, but it is best to telephone in advance, particularly at weekends.
Many of the country's footpaths pass through national parks or protected forest areas . These tracks generally take from one to several days, with accommodation provided en route, either in the form of basic camping and huts or comfortable lodges. A network of remote tramping tracks also exists, but walkers attempting these should be well prepared and able to read maps and use a compass. In most cases a Great Walks Pass must be obtained from the Department of Conservation, who have local offices throughout the country. Brown and rainbow trout are particularly popular.