mountain climbing in New Zealand

[simonette87]

hey guys,

We'd like to enjoy a bit of mountain climbing in New Zealand during our trip but we're that experienced to be frank. Are the climbs here easy and suited to newbies?

[Danny]

hello Simonette,

If you want to go mountain climbing in New Zealand, you can head to either the North Island or the South Island, however, there aren't too many easy climbs to choose from, if any, so if you aren't an experienced climber, you might stick to hiking.

Having said this, in Mount Cook village, you'll find guides and tour companies that can help you arrange your climb to suit your needs.

[BlackEyes]

Actually, there are several climbs on the North islands suited for newbies like you. These are very easy and less rugged.

[brclarke]

On the North Island try Wharepapa South (pronounced farepapa) just south east of Hamilton, about 2 hours drive south of the Auckland air-port. Contact Bryce and Wendy Martin, owners of the climber's hostel called Wharepapa Outdoor Center:

The rock is an excellent quality ignimbrite laid down from one of the Taupo eruptions. It climbs like limestone. Most climbs are high quality sport routes, well bolted. Gear and ropes are available at the Martin's shop. Bryce put up many of the climbs and guides. Froggat (a for-profit crag) has some fine routes including Terror Incognito (18) with a really great arete at the top. Mr. and Mrs. American Forks was my favorite climb.

I'm not as familiar with the South Island except for bouldering at Castle Hill, a truly world class limestone bouldering area