Where do you live? Sounds like you need to sit down with someone who has experience and have a good yarn. If you live anywhere near Palmerston North or Wellington I would be happy to show you my gear and chew the fat with you. I've done the odd trip before. I would even loan you some stuff.
I'm sure others near where ever you live will do the same.
Also, like it or hate, there is a bit of dodgy shit talked on forums, and if you don't have experience, get someone who you trust to evaluate the well meaning advice before you go rushing off to buy stuff.
Lastly, by all means take a beer, but don't sacrifice what you should be taking for the sake of our piss up in the bush culture. It's bull shit.
Cheers
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