ACC data shows the Otago region recorded New Zealand’s second-highest number of tramping-related injury claims in 2025, with 1299 injuries which cost the taxpayer $1.7 million to help people recover. Auckland recorded the highest number of tramping-related injuries with 1562 claims, followed by Otago, Canterbury (1277) and Waikato (819). Nationwide, ACC accepted more than 9000 claims for tramping-related injuries, costing $12.4m — the highest number of injuries and the highest cost over the past five years. MSC chief executive Mike Daisley said the steady rise in tramping injuries reflected how popular the outdoors had become. At a glanceACC tramping-related injury claims and costs in 2025.—Injuries Cost Otago 1299 $1.7m Southland 438 $440,000 Nationwide 9000 $12.4mjohn.lewis@odt.co.nz

Source: Otago Daily Times April 10, 2026 20:08 UTC