New Zealand
Australia
AS2156.1:2001, Walking tracks – Design, construction and maintenance, provides a comprehensive framework for creating and maintaining walking tracks. It covers everything from track alignment and gradient to surface materials, drainage, signage, and even accessibility considerations. It also sets out guidelines for information signs. The objective of this standard is to provide consistency of information to users, with the intention to minimise risk.
The AS2156.1 standard also classifies walking tracks into six main types, which helps ensure the right design is used for the intended purpose. This classification system is all about matching the track to the user’s abilities and expectations:
- Class 1: Easy Access for All: Imagine a smooth, well-defined path, perfect for a gentle stroll. These tracks are designed for high visitor numbers, including those with reduced mobility, and often feature ample interpretation and facilities. Think of it as an accessible gateway to nature, ideal for families and casual walkers.
- Class 2: Enjoying Nature with Ease: These tracks offer a comfortable walk in natural environments. Gentle hills and occasional steps might feature, requiring some basic bushwalking skills.
- Class 3: Stepping into the Bush: Now we’re venturing into slightly modified natural environments. Expect some obstacles and short steep sections, requiring a moderate level of fitness and bushwalking experience. Signages and facilities are less common, offering a more authentic natural experience.
- Class 4: Exploring Undisturbed Landscapes: Rough terrain, steep sections, and minimal signage demand significant bushwalking experience. Expect defined tracks with limited facilities, offering solitude and the chance to discover relatively undisturbed natural environments.
- Class 5: Navigating Remote Terrains: For the serious adventurer. These tracks involve very challenging terrain, requiring advanced outdoor knowledge, navigation abilities, and the capacity to find your own way along often indistinct trails in remote locations.
- Class 6: Tackling Extreme Environments: This is for highly experienced walkers who seek to explore remote and challenging natural areas without reliance on managed tracks. Expect significant hazards and demanding conditions, requiring advanced climbing or technical skills. With few encounters with others, users can expect extended periods of solitude.
Prioritising user safety by mitigating hazards like slips and falls through proper drainage and surface materials is essential, which is why standards like AS2156.1 are present – to provide proper guidance when it comes to developments where walking trails are accessed. Furthermore, compliance guarantees long-term durability, ensuring tracks withstand the elements and heavy use, ultimately saving money on maintenance.