New Zealand Mountaineering - Climbing To Glory
New Zealand is adorned by beautiful mountains with varying levels of difficulty in ascension, suitable to climbers of various skill and fitness levels.
New Zealand's claim to mountaineering fame was through Sir Edmund Hillary, the first man to conquer Mt. Everest in 1953. His conquest put the world spotlight on New Zealand. Sir Hillary's training ground was the Southern Alps of New Zealand.
Mountains are graded depending on their level of difficulty in ascension. A brief description of various grades is as follows:
Grade 1: Easy ascent - involves using a rope only for glacier travel
Grade 2: Steep and tricky sections - definitely demand use of rope
Grade 3: Climbs with longer steeper sections - Necessitates use of technical equipment. Ice climbs may involve 2 or more tools
Grade 4: Technical climbing - Ability to place rock and ice gear quickly and efficiently a must.
Grade 5: Continued Technical climbing - Can have vertical sections on ice
Grade 6: Multiple Crux sections - Vertical ice may not have enough protection. A solid climbing technique coupled with great mental attitude is essential. The climb may need a bivvy (protects your sleeping bag from moisture). You will be in isolated environment.
Some of New Zealand's highest and most magnificent peaks are in the Westland, Mt Cook, Fiordland and Mt Aspiring. A wide variety of guided tours are available to help you experience the thrill of this fantastic adventure sport.
The ultimate New Zealand mountaineering experience can be found in the South Island which boasts of the spectacular Southern Alps. This provides an array of challenging ascents of 19 peaks towering over 3000 metres, the highest being Mt Cook (Aoraki) at 3763 metres. The other well known peaks are Mt Aspiring and Mt Tasman. So are the Darran Mountains in Fiordland.
Although these peaks are not very high by international standards, the challenge and excitement arises from the fact that they lie in the path of roaring winds. The unpredictable weather and heavy snowfall makes these peaks dangerous and difficult.
Some of the famous peaks in North Island include Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Taranaki (Mt Egmont). The highest and most challenging mountains though are Mt Ruapehu and Mt Taranaki.
The best time for mountaineering is from November to March. The winter season can afford long extended spells of fine weather to experienced climbers. Be prepared for delays in mountaineering trips due to bad weather.
Points to Note:
- New Zealand's mountains can be a huge challenge as the weather changes at short notice without warning. Even though you may plan for a short trek, getting injured, lost or weather problems can disrupt your schedule.
- Always ensure you are accompanied by an experienced climber. If you cannot find one, then the wisest thing to do is to join a guided mountain trek.
- You must plan, prepare and equip yourself fully in advance before you start your trip as the weather in New Zealand is not strictly "stable" as in some other countries in the world.
- If your intended trip involves overnight camping, make sure you inform the nearest office of Department of Conservation before you go. Notify them on your safe return.
- Carry gear that consists of warm and water proof clothing though the weather may seem nice and bright. A bright day in the mountains can turn to freezing white in a matter of hours. Low altitude ascents can leave you soaked with rain and possible hypothermia.
- Check the latest weather information and the track and hut conditions as well before you set out.
- Carry plenty of water to avoid dehydration
- Caryy high energy foods
- Carry a light and sturdy backpack
- Footwear is very vital and wear good quality shoes
- In summer the New Zealand sun is very strong. Cover yourself with suitable clothing, a
