Editorial: Forest a risk to unwary

Pukenui forest.

As Jill Heenan from Kamo notes in today's letters column, Pukenui Forest is a magical place.

But as an experienced multisport athlete found last week, it is also potentially dangerous and demands respect.

The man spent the night in the forest after heading off for what he estimated to be a three-hour run.

He became disorientated and decided to stay put and make his way out at daylight. Police suggested he should at least have had a cellphone with him. It is a logical sentiment, but not always practical - a cellphone can be cumbersome if you are wearing light running gear. As far as this runner's experience goes, I have been there.

I too ventured into Pukenui Forest for the first time, and set off on a 10km loop.

There were two things the information signs did not tell me, as a runner.

Ten km in the Pukenui Forest does not equal 10km on the road - it takes longer.

Yes you run. But you walk and you climb.

Or stand, while you check your bearings and look for the reflectors tacked on trees that denote that you are on a track. I had allowed an hour, it took me close to two.

Search and rescue officials were right to suggest that people should carry cellphones when heading into the bush. And that they should be dressed more appropriately in the bush.

Sound advice but I can also see the other side, why the man was wearing only running gear and not carrying a phone. He went for a run - not a tramp ... but like me didn't realise what he was getting himself into. I have been back to the Pukenui Forest with my wife and children.

Yes, we had a phone, which gave us the added benefit of being able to take magical photos as we explored a stream.

It is truly a beautiful forest and a place that taught me a valuable lesson about respect for my environment - especially one that I am not familiar with.

Yep, even if you have a cellphone, if you don't know where you're going, take small steps first.