Especially on the South Island which is the home to some 23, 3000-meter peaks. But as mesmerizing as the mountains are, we all know they can be challenging places to be and must be treated with the utmost respect. For many of us tramping is not unfamiliar and provides us with the opportunity to connect on some level with our unique alpine environment.
However, if you want to step it up and explore the more remote parts of our country, why not strap on some crampons, grab an ice axe and add a whole new set of skills to your outdoor-toolbox?
A Mountaineering Skills Course can equip you for future alpine adventures - all taught in stunning classrooms.
To give you a bit more of a feel for what a Mountaineering Skills Course generally entails we have captured the experiences of one student who recently decided to learn more about the art of mountaineering.
The course was hosted by Aspiring Guides, which is a long-time mountain guiding company that has been based in Wanaka for over 30 years.
The course starts with a spectacular helicopter flight from Raspberry Flat in Mt. Aspiring National Park, and you'll feel on top of the world as you see the valley getting smaller beneath and the snowy peaks getting closer.
Landing on Bevan Col marks the start of the day in the classroom and lesson number one is walking with crampons. A funny, yet challenging task with lots of practice and lots of laughing when falling and sliding down easy slopes. Managing a good crampon technique is crucial when heading into mountaineering and your guide will make sure you're getting all the right cues.
This story is from the December 2020 - January 2021 edition of Adventure Magazine.
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This story is from the December 2020 - January 2021 edition of Adventure Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
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