Mountain Climbing and Rock Climbing in Oceania
Climbing in Oceania, from New Zealand's Southern Alps and Aoraki/Mount Cook to Australia's Blue Mountains crags.
Oceania offers climbers everything from serious alpine mountaineering to sun-warmed sport crags. New Zealand’s Southern Alps, crowned by Aoraki/Mount Cook, are the region’s mountaineering heartland and the training ground where Sir Edmund Hillary honed his skills before Everest.
Australia, meanwhile, is a rock-climbing paradise, with the sandstone of the Blue Mountains, the granite of the Grampians and iconic formations across the outback. From glaciated peaks to bolted single-pitch routes, the region rewards every kind of climber.
Oceania's Great Climbs#
Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand The country’s highest peak and the training ground where Sir Edmund Hillary prepared for Everest. Serious, glaciated and technical, it is the ultimate prize of Southern Alps mountaineering. Guides and huts make the surrounding peaks accessible to fit alpinists.
Mount Arapiles, Australia A modest orange cliff in western Victoria that ranks among the world’s greatest trad-climbing crags. Thousands of quality routes on immaculate rock draw pilgrims from across the globe. The neighbouring campground has a legendary climbing-community atmosphere.
The Grampians, Australia Just up the road from Arapiles, this sandstone range is a world-class destination for sport climbing and bouldering. Vivid orange and grey walls rise above forest and wildflowers. It is one of Australia’s finest and most scenic climbing areas.
The Blue Mountains, Australia A short trip from Sydney, this eucalyptus-cloaked escarpment offers hundreds of sandstone sport and trad routes above dramatic valleys. Areas like Mount Piddington and the Centennial Glen are climbing classics. The mist-filled gorges make for a spectacular backdrop.
Mount Aspiring, New Zealand Nicknamed the ‘Matterhorn of the South’, this elegant pyramid deep in the Southern Alps is a coveted alpine ascent. Its classic ridgelines demand skill on snow, ice and rock. The remote Matukituki approach is an adventure in itself.
Frog Buttress, Australia A basalt cliff in Queensland renowned for its splitter crack climbing, with hundreds of routes packed into a compact wall. It is a mecca for those who love jamming. The warm climate makes it a reliable winter destination.
Castle Hill, New Zealand A surreal field of giant limestone boulders in Canterbury, revered as one of the world’s premier bouldering destinations. The rounded grey rocks scattered across golden tussock even featured in Narnia. Sunset sessions here are magical.
Nowra, Australia South of Sydney, this sandstone gorge is one of Australia’s steepest and strongest sport-climbing venues. Its overhanging, pockety walls draw hard climbers year-round. The shady aspect makes it a good option in warmer months.
Mount Buffalo, Australia A granite plateau in the Victorian Alps offering long multi-pitch trad routes on huge, clean walls like the North Wall. Alpine scenery and cool summers make it a rewarding adventure. It is one of the country’s grand old climbing areas.
Point Perpendicular, Australia Dramatic sea cliffs at the mouth of Jervis Bay, offering exposed climbing above the crashing ocean. Abseil approaches and airy positions add to the thrill. White sandstone and turquoise water make it unforgettable.
Charleston, New Zealand A West Coast limestone crag near Westport with excellent sport routes and a wild coastal setting. Uncrowded and atmospheric, it rewards climbers who make the journey. Nearby caves and beaches round out the experience.
Kangaroo Point, Australia A convenient urban crag on the cliffs beside the Brisbane River, floodlit for evening climbing. Ideal for beginners and after-work sessions, it sits right in the heart of the city. It is one of the best city-centre crags anywhere.