New Zealand is renowned for its diverse landscapes, making it a hotspot for adventure sports such as climbing. For both beginners and experienced climbers, the opportunity to take part in climbing courses and camps in some of the country’s most stunning locations is a rewarding experience. Two prime destinations for climbing camps in New Zealand are Wharepapa South, famous for its rope climbing, and Waitomo Airstrip, a haven for bouldering. These camps, typically spanning 3-5 days, offer a unique chance to improve climbing skills while being immersed in the beauty of New Zealand’s natural landscape.
Wharepapa South is a hidden gem in the Waikato region of the North Island, just a couple of hours from Auckland. It is known as one of New Zealand’s premier rope climbing destinations, attracting climbers from all over the world. The unique volcanic rock formations, combined with well-bolted sport climbing routes, make it an ideal setting for those looking to improve their rope climbing skills.
During a 3-5 day climbing camp in Wharepapa South, climbers are introduced to a variety of rock faces, each offering different challenges depending on skill levels. The courses are tailored to suit both beginners and more experienced climbers, ensuring everyone gets a chance to push their limits. The routes vary in difficulty, with some being relatively easy, making them perfect for those new to rope climbing, while others are more technical and challenging, demanding precise technique and strength.
What You’ll Learn
In these climbing camps, participants learn essential rope climbing techniques, including lead climbing, belaying, and rappelling. The focus is often on both safety and technique, ensuring climbers are comfortable with gear management, knot-tying, and rope handling. Instructors guide participants through the intricacies of outdoor climbing, as opposed to the controlled environment of indoor gyms, highlighting the differences in grip, movement, and navigation of natural rock faces.
The Wharepapa South camps also emphasize mental preparation, with climbers learning how to stay focused and calm when faced with difficult routes. This mental aspect is key in improving overall climbing ability and is particularly useful for those who want to take their rope climbing to the next level.
Climbing Spots in Wharepapa South
Some of the popular climbing areas include Froggatt Edge, Sheridan Hills, and CastleRock. Froggatt Edge, with over 100 bolted routes, is one of the most frequented spots, offering both beginner-friendly climbs and more advanced challenges. The volcanic tuff found in these areas provides excellent friction, making it ideal for rope climbing. Participants can expect to spend hours tackling these outdoor routes, practicing their skills in an environment that is both exhilarating and scenic.
Just a short drive from Wharepapa South, the Waitomo region is another climbing haven, but with a focus on bouldering. The Waitomo Airstrip, in particular, is a renowned bouldering location, offering climbers a chance to tackle shorter, yet no less challenging rock formations.
Bouldering differs from rope climbing in that it involves shorter climbs without the use of ropes or harnesses. The climbs typically do not exceed 4-5 meters in height, and climbers rely on mats or crash pads to protect them from falls. Despite the shorter height, bouldering is incredibly demanding, requiring a high level of strength, technique, and problem-solving skills.
What You’ll Learn
During the 3-5 day bouldering courses at Waitomo Airstrip, participants learn fundamental bouldering techniques such as body positioning, dynamic movement, and how to read routes effectively. Bouldering places a strong emphasis on using the entire body, with climbers required to engage both their upper and lower body muscles to complete climbs.
One of the most valuable lessons taught in bouldering camps is how to solve the “problems” or sequences of moves required to reach the top. These problems often involve figuring out the most efficient way to move from one hold to the next, with many different approaches possible. The camps also focus on footwork, balance, and flexibility, all critical components of successful bouldering.
Climbing Spots in Waitomo
The limestone boulders of the Waitomo Airstrip provide a wide range of problems for climbers to solve, from easy warm-up routes to more technical and challenging ones. The location is also visually stunning, with the boulders set against the backdrop of rolling green hills and farmland, making it a peaceful yet exhilarating environment for climbers to hone their skills.
For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the climbing world, doing a camp in both Wharepapa South and Waitomo Airstrip offers a comprehensive experience. Participants not only gain valuable skills in both rope climbing and bouldering but also get to experience two of New Zealand’s most picturesque climbing areas. The combination of rope climbing’s endurance and technique with bouldering’s power and problem-solving creates a well-rounded climber.
New Zealand’s climbing course camps in Wharepapa South and Waitomo Airstrip offer a unique, exhilarating, and educational experience for climbers of all levels. Whether you are looking to master the art of rope climbing or tackle the technical challenges of bouldering, these camps provide the perfect opportunity to enhance your skills while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes of the Waikato region. From learning essential climbing techniques to building mental resilience, participants leave these camps with newfound confidence and a deeper appreciation for the sport of climbing.
