Alpine trips, rock meets and bouldering, all year round.
Photo by Nye Williams-Renouf
Upcoming Activities
Trip Categories
Our rock meets generally run during summer, and alpine trips over winter. Social climbing and bouldering happens all year round in Wellington, Aotearoa.
ALP 1
Generally suitable for those who have completed Snowcraft 1 (or equivalent experience).
Grade 1 terrain - route requires proficient use of ice axe and crampons, but does not require ropes or pitched climbing.
ALP 2
Generally suitable for those who have completed Snowcraft 2 (or equivalent experience).
Grade 2+ terrain - route may also require two axes, ropes, pitched climbing, and placing natural protection in rock, snow and ice.
A plus sign (+) indicates additional difficulty or specific skills required.
Upcoming Climbs & Meets
ALP 1 - Mt Tongariro
One of the central plateau's most recognisable summits, taking in the Red Crater, on terrain that is straightforward in good winter conditions. The outing involves sustained time on snow with crampons and ice axe, and the full day covers some elevation gain. A great objective for those who have completed Snowcraft 1 and want to spend some time consolidating their skills.
ALP 2+ Ringatoto North Buttress
The North Buttress of Ringatoto (Mitre) is one of Ruapehu's more committing routes, with sustained mixed terrain, good exposure and a long day from the Karioi Forest approach. Route finding on the buttress requires sound judgement and the ability to move confidently on steep snow and rock. Suited to those with solid alpine experience including established Snowcraft 2, ideally with previous South Island or multi-pitch alpine experience. Full alpine and climbing kit needed.
ALP 1 Full Moon Tongariro Alpine Crossing
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing by moonlight is a memorable way to experience one of Aotearoa New Zealand's great routes, with the Red Crater and Emerald Lakes taking on a different character after dark. Winter conditions mean crampons and ice axe are required, and the group moves together as a team rather than at individual pace. A good objective for those who have completed Snowcraft 1 and 2, and want to put their night navigation and cold-weather skills to use.
ALP 2 Whakapapa Pinnacles Gullies
The Pinnacles gullies on the western side of Whakapapa offer some of the best accessible ice and mixed climbing on Ruapehu, with route options ranging from straightforward snow gullies to steeper mixed lines. This trip requires Snowcraft 2 and experience with snow, ice and rock anchors and two-tool technique.
ALP 1 & 2 Temple Basin Alpine Meet
The annual Wellington Section meet at Temple Basin is based out of the lodge at Arthurs Pass, with ice and mixed climbing on routes of all grades accessible directly from the door. It is the section's main South Island winter event and a chance to climb with more experienced members in serious alpine terrain. Open to all levels from those fresh off Snowcraft 1 through to members after more technical objectives.
ALP 1 - Turoa - Whakapapa Traverse
The Turoa to Whakapapa traverse crosses Ruapehu from south to north, taking in the Summit Plateau and passing close to the Crater Lake on one of the mountain's most rewarding routes. It is a committing day with sustained time on snow and no easy bail-out once committed, so solid fitness and confidence with crampons and ice axe are important. A natural step up for those who have established Alpine Level 1 experience and want a bigger day on the mountain.
ALP 1 - Tahurangi via Skyline Ridge
The Skyline Ridge is Tahurangi's classic winter route, following the ridge line from the Whakapapa ski area to Ruapehu's highest summit at 2797m. It is a straightforward alpine route in good conditions and a natural objective for anyone who has completed Snowcraft 1. Crampons and ice axe required; expect a full day on the hill.
Learn from those who have gone before
We have been capturing trip reports for almost two decades. Have a browse through our Trip Archives to find inspiration, information and insights.
Share your passion with others.
We’re always looking to train members who would like to lead trips and meets, as well as become instructors for Snowcraft and Summer Rock courses. Let us know if you’re keen as.