- Overview
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Outdoor rock climbing in New Zealand is stunningly diverse
From grottos to sea cliffs and city crags to bouldering walls, we know the best walls to go near you, whatever your comfort level. So, whether you’re a newcomer climbing for the first time or the five hundredth time, chalk up your hands on the perfect outdoor rock climbing classes for beginners and for every style and comfort level.
This beginner guide to outdoor rock climbing is designed for amateurs who have limited rock climbing experience, or have never climbed a precipice before, who wish to debut their safe modern climbing practices in Outdoor Rock Climbing 101. You will be the apprentice learning fundamentals of rock climbing and take away introductory skills to independently enjoy this highly rewarding sport.
Flexible beginner climbing options to suit you
The Social Nature Movement team offers you the choice and flexibility to choose your duration of beginner rock climbing.
We have options for a days outdoor climbing, two days/overnight, four days and seven days of rock climbing.
Our beginner rock climbing options are for anyone wanting to start outdoor climbing, get guided around, learn more about skills and knowledge or simply spend time in nature and climb as much as possible with a guide on your side.
New to rock climbing outside?
Have you just started at clip n climb and want to get better faster? We can kickoff with this basic climbing school by taking your climbing to new heights. This rock climbing inception for keen learners is a valuable first step for anyone who is keen to learn good basic techniques for climbing and top rope belaying indoors.
Perhaps you are an indoor climbing gym rookie that wants to connect deeper with oneself and transcend natures intricacies without following the green holds and obsessive grades? Then take this induction to good climbs and good times. The perfect admission for any fitness level and getting started, our ‘good climbs, good times’ sessions teach enthusiasts the tips and tricks for beginning rock climbing in a fun and safe environment. Perfect for anyone wanting to get into beginner climbing outdoors.
Real rock climbing outdoors
Experience real climbing in a fun safe environment and learn the basics of this exciting sport.
The focus of this initiation programme is learning skills to safely enjoy climbing on outdoor cliffs. On this course you will learn the most current climbing techniques and protocols. Never belayed with anything other than a Petzl GriGri? Let us show you, the cadet, an air traffic controller (ATC) and other belay devices...
To see us in action, click here 
Outdoor rock climbing lessons
For anyone wanting to learn how to climb outdoor crags; we have designed a 101 course to teach students foundational rock climbing skills. No previous climbing experience is necessary, but preferred along with curiosity if we explore the promontories.
We base our trainee outdoor rock climbing class at local and scenic climbing bluffs in New Zealand for a great place for teaching rock climbing skills.
Make the most of climbing with a short, intensive training day with our experienced and qualified guides. Brush up on your existing skills, learn new techniques or start from scratch! We tailor the day to suit your current skill level and objectives.
Our outdoor rock climbing school for beginners is designed as an introduction to bouldering for new climbers with the focus on developing technique, confidence and learning the foundations of the sport. No matter if you have never climbed before or just a couple of times at clip n climb, we take you to discover the tricks and tips toward more ways of climbing! Make your commencement in a newfound sport. This is a great opportunity to introduce you to the love of climbing. All levels are welcome and qualified instruction is given.
Ranging from a basic 101 introduction to modern climbing techniques to more advanced and technical rock climbing. Classes will be designed for novices wanting to advance or brush up their skills or gain more competence and experience on the rock.
As an introduction to Rock Climbing in New Zealand, fundamental principles and techniques of beginner rock climbing movement and footwork are introduced. You will gain confidence in your skills, exposure to heights and trusting the rope. You will get more comfortable handling the ropes in the principles of movement and belaying.
This is a popular inauguration course for people who would like to give outside rock climbing a go. This course focuses on getting started with a range of outdoor climbing styles, including bouldering and top-rope climbing on real rock walls. At the end of this class, you will be able to belay, tie knots, climb better, be braver, asses risk and communicate the climbing lingo. How rad is that?
Check out our booking tab, click the book now button or fill an enquiry here.
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Itineraries
Contents
The ability to tie climbing knots and an understanding of when/where to use them
Abseiling independently utilising self-protection systems
Knowledge of equipment, use and properties
Identify and minimising risks and hazards
Safe and effective belay techniques
Climbing techniques and styles
Anchor building principles
Climbing
Climbing technique – slab climbing, face climbing, crack climbing
Introduction to climbing equipment: use, care, selection
Introduction to climbing knots
Techniques for belaying
Techniques for abseiling/rappelling
Climbing communication
Introduction to natural protection
Anchor construction
Setting climbs with a top rope
Hazard assessment & safety at climbing areas
To start rock climbing outdoors as a beginner, you should enrol in a beginner rock climbing course.
Rock climbing is not hard for beginners; if you can climb a ladder, you can definitely go rock climbing. Climbing routes and bouldering problems come in different difficulty levels ranging from easy to very hard. Start with something easy in your comfort zone, and then work to improve.
It does not take long to learn how to rock climb. A professional rock climbing course like the ones SNM does can have someone rock climbing in as little as one day.
Skills, like belaying, rappelling, and setting anchors, mean that you and your climbing partner can have a safe experience.
Is 30 Too Old to Start Rock Climbing? 30 is a great age to start rock climbing! With some life experience beneath your belt you won't be as fearless as you were as a teenager, which is probably a good thing. Lots of people in their 30's climb frequently in the gym and outside.
Beginner climbers should rock climb at least twice a week.
Many people get their start with experienced friends, or you can seek out a certified instructor to teach you the ropes. SNM offers a range of rock climbing classes to get you started.
You do not need to be strong to rock climb. Only if you want to climb longer and harder routes will strength become a factor.
The easiest way to get started is to find a course with a qualified instructor. It's possible to start rock climbing indoors or outdoor. You'll want to start off seconding or top roping, gradually building up to leading routes.
We select the best staff for the job based on their skills, knolwedge and experiences. They will be an SNM staff member or we will bring in support from equally competent contractors. Sometimes we also bring in (semi)celebrity guests!
This changes depending on what we do and where we go, but generic items are:
Clothing
- Thermal bottom leggings,
- Shorts
- Pants
- Swimwear
- Socks
- Thin merino shirt / thermal shirt x 2
- Fleece jumper x1
- Woolen jumper x1
- Wind and Rain-proof Jacket
- Sunhat
- Warm beanie
- Neck warmer / scarf
- Warm gloves
Equipment
- Jandals
- Closed-toe footwear
- Sunglasses
- Personal medication
- Water bottle,
- Head torch,
- Toiletries.
- Waterproof pack liner
- Backpack to put all of the above in
If we are staying overnight, should you choose not to be accommodated and fed by us, here is what you will need:
Sleeping
- Sleeping bag
- Pillow
- Inflatable mattress
- Tent
Cooking
- Cooker
- Fuel / gas
- Lighter / matches
- Pot / frying pan
- Cutlery
- Crockery
All of the above is available to rent / hire / buy
Includes:
One staff
Activity specific items:
Rope
Harness
Helmet
Shoes
Staff carry:
First Aid Kit
Emergency shelter
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