Ice Climbing in New Zealand: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

The diverse flora and fauna are a bonus to the incredible terrain. The ice flows guaranteed in the southern reaches of the country are plentiful and unique, coming in every shape and size for all climbers. Week-long courses are available for comprehensive instruction, while day programs allow a more comfortable expedition.

Many places in New Zealand are in isolated areas, so avalanche safety and training is often included in a program. Mt. Aspiring and Aoraki / Mt. Cook are two of the most popular peaks in the country.

Mountaineering programs and ski touring programs often include ice climbing. The heavily glaciated Southern Alps abound with areas for practical application of ice climbing techniques.

Undisturbed Nature!

New Zealand's remote location has helped shield it from the development that has occurred in other places around the world. This has led to a high number of natural parks, including Mount Aspiring and Aoraki / Mount Cook National Parks, as well as a relatively untouched setting for outdoor adventure. The geology and geography have nurtured a diverse and unique wildlife, including penguins, sea lions, and so much more. The high altitudes encourage eclectic ice flows of every shape and size that are the perfect place to master a wild and peaceful New Zealand climb.

Seamless Access!

The shape and size of New Zealand seems to have been made for exciting adventure. The Southern Alps stretch across the west-central spine of the South Island, keeping outdoor adventure just far enough from its larger cities like Dunedin, Invercargill, Christchurch, and even Wellington. In just a few hours, you can travel from coast to mountains and span long distances on the island. For ice climbers who want to get to a few different places or pack a few objectives into a trip, this is welcome news.

Accommodating Landscape!

Some of the best ice falls and frozen ascents are reserved for the most experienced of mountaineers and climbers, but this doesn't mean rookies don't have a place in New Zealand. In fact, Queenstown is renowned for its gentle build up of exhilarating trips into the Southern Alps. If you wanted a pleasant climb accompanied by a trip to a winery, New Zealand can accommodate. And, of course, if you want a week out on the glacier conquering daunting ice-forms, they can also provide that, too.

The mild weather turns to cold in the winter, with snowy and ice conditions at higher altitudes. Windy conditions are common, particularly in elevated areas of the South Island.

English; Maori

New Zealand dollar (NZD)

Flying into Auckland is the most common way to get to New Zealand, though you can also fly into or transfer to airports in Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin. The roads are serviced by well-maintained bus routes, so domestic travel is easy.

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July, August, and into September will provide the best conditions for ice climbing.