Ice Climbing on Ruapehu

I am posting this for someone from the MountainNZ forums...
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Ice Climbing on Ruapehu

I am organising an ice climbing weekend at Mt Ruapehu this winter for all those interested.

There will be climbs for all abilities - absolute ice novices through to those who already know their stuff. Top ropes, sport climbs, and lead instruction. I'm hoping some of the more experienced climbers out there can help out in organising some of the climbs. Some of the funky ice climbing hardwear will be available to use including leashless ice tools and the like.

However you will need to be self reliant on the mountain and have the necessary skills and gear to get to and from the ice climbing areas (ie. crampons, walking axe). Bring whatever gear you have (harness and helmet are going to be essential and you should source a pair of mountaineering boots (eg plastics or something with a rigid sole) to make the most of it).

I'm keen to see some of the rock climbing community who have abs of steel and laterals the size of thigh muscles have a crack at ice climbing. If this is you and you only have minimal experience in the snow and none of the gear then let me know and we'll help you out.

Date, location and other details yet to be finalised, but email me to express your interest in participating and I'll keep you posted.

Thanks, Glenn
glennpennycook@iclimb.co.nz