What we’re about
Welcome to Feet First - Auckland Hiking Group & Urban Walking!
We are a popular hiking group and the longest established active hiking group on Meet Up.
The group was started by Stephen French, aka Big Stephen in 2010.
Along with Co- Organiser Mike K. And other leaders from time time, we mainly do bush, coastal and city walks we occasionally do caving, kayaking and social activities.
Our aim on our hikes out in nature is to get some exercise, learn a little about plants & history but also to create an atmosphere for you to make new connections and friendships. We do try to socialise after our hikes with some refreshments or a meal where possible after a hike for those that wish.
IS THIS GROUP FOR ME?
We are sure to have some Guided Hikes or Urban Walks to suit your level and interests & reasons for you come out into the wilderness with Feet First.
Our huge variety of hikes in winter and summer range from easy to moderate difficulty.
Members range from those in their 20's up to their 70's from all around the world.
Our Hikes and Urban Walks may be slower where there is an interest in plants, history or garden walks for those interested in gardens and photography.
Then we have hikes of medium pace but stopping at scenic spots and to take photo's.
We don't do the hikes going as fast as we can from A to B, we leave that to others.
WHO ARE OUR LEADERS:
Our group leaders are founder Stephen. J. French, Mike K and David Boyd. They are born and raised in Auckland, both Stephen and Mike have been hiking or tramping as we called it then since they were 10 years old.
So we have decades of experience of knowing Auckland well and the surrounding places to take you hiking.
SAFETY:
Safety is a top priority and it is important you read all the details before signing up to a hike or urban walk.
If you are unsure if a hike is suitable for you ring the person leading the hike who's number will be at the bottom of the details. We hike together as one group - if you are struggling we won't leave you behind and have a tail end charlie (an experienced FF regular) at the rear.
BASIC RULES FOR FEET FIRST MEMBERS.
* You must be at least 20 years old.
* When joining answer all the questions. These are there for outdoor safety purposes and our group record in case of emergencies.
* When joining provide a portrait photo so we can identify you up close without sunglasses on.
* When adding your name an alias or initials like JK are not okay, the minimum is first name and first letter of surname is essential.
* FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE 4 RULES ABOVE YOU WILL BE REJECTED BUT YOU CAN REAPPLY BY DOING AS ASKED.
* Bring $2 or more to give to the Feet First Event Leader on the day to cover their associated costs with putting these events on for you.
* No children, animals, smoking/vaping or Guests - get them to join its free!
* No wearing denim. These make you cold when wet.
* If you are on the list to go and find you can't come please remove yourself before 4 p.m. the day before.
In fairness to others on the wait list if you don't or don't bother turning up you will be marked 'No Show', 3 'No Shows' and you will not be able to join a hike with us for 6 months.
* By attending our Feet First Events, you consent to being photographed or filmed.
* Remember to look after your belongings, and your own well-being.
Details of what to bring, transport snd car sharing etc will be in the event details, announced online, generally within a week or two, so you can properly prepare if you RSVP, Yes.
If you haven't joined a Meetup Group before and are unsure take the plunge we are a friendly group combining lots of regular members and new friends such as yourselves from many different countries.
You will be looked after and if you are struggling with what to wear, bring, or have questions about on the day there will be someone there to help you.
Thanks for stopping by.
Cheers,
Feet First Leadership Team.
Big Stephen, Mike K & David Boyd.