Tech out of place outdoors
BLAYNE SLABBERT
The hike to one of New Zealand’s most beautiful beaches is so amazing I stop often to take in the view or listen to native birds.
But on a recent walk, two other hikers missed these treats.
One was engaged in a video chat as she walked past breathtaking views. Another couldn’t hear the birds as his stereo was overpowering their chirping.
I accept that technology is everywhere in our lives but that’s not always a good thing, especially outdoors.
Just because you can video chat from the depths of our native bush doesn’t mean you should. However, at least it’s not too imposing on others.
But using a speaker in the bush or pristine beach is not OK. If you really want to drown out the sounds of the crashing waves or rustling trees, then get a set of headphones.
Just because you can video chat from the depths of our native bush doesn't mean you should.
However, gadgets do have their place in the wild. Locator beacons, mapping apps, and smartphones can save lives.
I’m also a big fan of cameras, as taking pictures helps you remember the rewards of your efforts, and those images will hopefully also provide motivation for the next adventure.
But be careful. There have been several incidents where people have been hurt or killed while taking selfies in the wild.
Technology is set to make an even bigger impact in the outdoors. In the United States, there is talk of installing an internet cable through Yellowstone National Park so people can constantly be connected.
But in Britain, the New Forest National Park encourages you to leave your smartphone or tablet behind.
The aim is for families to reconnect while outdoors.
It’s not a bad idea, but forcing people to forgo technology will not solve the problem. It should be up to the individual to decide where to draw the line when it comes to the intrusion of tech outdoors.
I hope New Zealand develops a tech culture where all Kiwis put nature above gadgets, and only pull out their smartphones when taking a picture or in an emergency.