New Queenstown climbing information available

New climbing areas and updated access information is now available for the Queenstown area with the imminent release of the New Zealand Alpine Club’s latest offering, Queenstown Rock, Ice and Boulders. To be released on December 14th in Queenstown, and available to the public from 15th December, the guide has been fully updated and reformatted to provide full information for climbers this summer.

‘With the increase in visiting climbers to this important area it is essential that we provide the most up to date and accurate information possible’ said Karen Leacock, New Zealand Alpine Club General Manager. ‘While this is the third edition of the guide, it is the first time it has been produced under the NZAC banner using our layout and production. We, as a climbing community, are very lucky to have such a dedicated author. He has done an excellent job of not only updating the existing material but also at including new areas, such as the new bouldering section of the book.’

Guillaume Charton, the author of the book explains, ‘I am so pleased to be able to include the new bouldering section for the first time. The Jardine family has kindly allowed us access to this special area. To be able to share this in the book, and so with a wider range of climbers, is an absolute privilege.’ Charton says. ‘Of course, the Wakatipu Basin is popular not only in summer. It also provides some of the best ice and mixed routes in the country. The guide provides comprehensive information on these areas too and so is the essential year-round book for this region.’

As tourism increases in the central lakes district, so too does the number of visiting climbers accessing climbing areas. Providing correct and accurate information for both visiting and local climbers helps maintain access arrangements with landowners and ensures climbers can arrive prepared with the necessary equipment. With overviews of the history, flora and fauna of the area, the book also seeks to facilitate an understanding and appreciation of the unique area with climbers.

Part of the proceeds from sales will be donated back to Queenstown Climbing Club and the NZAC to support access, sustainability initiatives and continued development of the sport in the region.

Queenstown Rock, Ice and Boulders is on sale for $49 from the 15th December at the NZAC online shop: www.alpineclub.org.nz

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