New Zealand Rock Climbing - All The Way To The Top
Rock climbing is a demanding adventure sport and is all about climbing steep rock formations. Climbers use gear and safety equipment that are specially designed for such climbs.
A climber must display strength, courage, agility and both physical and mental control to master a tough adventure sport like rock climbing. Good knowledge of climbing techniques and use of equipment is of vital importance to overcome daunting climbs.
Rock climbing differs from alpine climbing from a climber's perspective in that the climber is not interested in conquering summits. Rather, he/she is more focussed on technique and style.
This penchance for gauging their climbing skills enables rock climebrs to grade their climbs more accurately and effectively than their alpine climber counterparts.
New Zealand uses the Australian Ewbank numerical grading system where each climb is graded with a number to help climbers gauge their performance. The higher the number, the tougher is the diffuclty of the climb.
Rock climbing can be classified broadly into two categories, free climbing and aid climbing.
Free climbing has the climber using only the natural features of the rock formation.
Aid climbing involves using artificial devices placed on the rock face to help the climber place his/her body weight on them. It is used in situations where free climbing is not possible.
New Zealand rock climbing has experienced phenomenal growth due to a variety of reasons. It is due to increased number of indoor rock climbing clubs providing quality artificial cliffs. They provide a good training ground to gain valuable climbing experience in a safe environment.
Being an extreme adventure sport, there is an increasing awareness amongst the public about the impact of modern safety gear and the expert instruction centres that reduces the risk factors significantly.
Last but not the least is the presence of fantastic international quality rock climbing locations that makes New Zealand rock climbing stand out in the world.
The main bodies involved in developing the sport of rock climbing in New Zealand are the Outdoor Recreation Advisory Group, the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association, New Zealand Mountain Safety Council and New Zealand Mountain Guides Association.
On the North Island of New Zealand, some of the best rock climbing locations include the Mt Eden Quarry in Auckland, Motuapa and Whanganui Bay bordering Lake Taupo and Piarere in Cambridge.
The ultimate spot for rock climbing in New Zealand is Wharepapa, situated between Te Awamutu and Managkino. Do not give this place a miss if you are an avid rock climber.
The South Island of New Zealand boasts of some interesting rock climbing areas. The Port Hills above Christchurch is a typical example. Castle Hill, about 100 km away from Arthur's Pass, has an interesting collection of climbs.
The Golden Bay and Takaka Hill situated west of Nelson have a generous smattering of marble and limestone mountains which are prime rock climbing delights. Long Beach, located north of Dunedin is a great place for rock climbing.
Points to note:
- Rock climbing is an extreme adventure sport with its share of thrills and dangers. A climber is encouraged to always adopt safe practices.
- Access to a climbing spot in New Zealand should not be taken for granted. You are advised to visit the land owner before the climb and get permission.
- In New Zealand, the restrictions arising from cultural and religious beliefs must be respected especially in the case of Maori lands with burial grounds.
- When camping overnight, ensure that permission is obtained from the camp site's land owner.
- Preserve the ecology of the climbing location by respecting the wildlife and the native flora and fauna.
- One of the downsides of rock climbing is the damage to t
