Port Hills Reserves rock climbing update
All rock climbing areas on the Port hills remain closed. Prior to June 13th good progress was being made towards getting some tracks open, and two climbing areas assessed. However, as a consequence of the June 13 event (where ground accelerations and damage similar to Feb 22nd were recorded) the geo technical work went back to concentrating on rock fall issues threatening critical infrastructure such as roads and houses.
We are starting to make gains again in Port Hills Parks and Reserves. A work package is currently before the City Council. It seeks approval to open Cattle Stop Crag and then Albert Tce Crag. These Crags have always been on our priority list for opening, as they offer variety, and were regularly used by instructional groups.
We are acutely aware of the loss of recreational opportunity for rock climbers. The reality is that many areas won’t open this season. An average winter rainfall would have helped clear out debris and exposed other defects-but this hasn’t occurred.
Therefore climbing conditions on the Port Hills remain hazardous. Ongoing seismic activity accentuates the situation.
A general update will be posted Early Nov. In the mean time if you want to contact me please email: Nick.Singleton@ccc.govt.nz
Nick Singleton
Port Hills Park Ranger
The volcanic outcrops and tors of the Port Hills lend themselves to both experienced rock-climbers and beginners. Close to Christchurch, you can access most of the climbs by car, followed by a short walk. The climbs look down into the town of Lyttelton or back over Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains.
Popular sites include Castle Rock and Rapaki Rock, but there are plenty of other accessible crags and climbs. Port Hills Climbing by Lindsay Main is the most comprehensive guide on climbs in the Port Hills. This book includes maps, grades and features of the climbs, and guidelines regarding new routes, bolting and crag access and the conservation of these areas.
Be aware that access to some areas is closed during the lambing season. Over winter, some crags will be too cold and wet, if not icy, to climb.
The natural features of rocky outcrops provide special habitats for some very unique and fragile plants. Protected by the rocky outcrops from past human activities of burning and grazing on the Port Hills, these plants have survived in pockets of soil in the rock crevices. Even apparently common plants are worth protecting as they provide important habitat for animals such as native copper butterflies, skinks and geckos.
You can help conserve this habitat by avoiding removal of plants and soil and respecting the wildlife that lives here. Before new routes are established, contact the Port Hills Ranger Service so that recreation and environmental impact can be managed.
Popular areas
Rapaki Rock - A range of climbs for both the experienced climber and for those new to the sport. Rapaki Rock is frequented by schools and other groups making the most of the number of the climbs suitable for beginners.
Castle Rock Reserve - Castle Rock on the north side of the Port Hills above the Heathcote and Horotane valleys, offers variety with many different climbs and challenges most of which are suited for the experienced climber. Suitable for climbing all year around.
Scotts Valley Reserve has a number of climbable crags. These include Mt Pleasant Spur with plenty of crack climbing, the Britten Crags, and Cattlestop Crag.
Bishopdale and Wainoni parks have artificial climbing boulders. Perfect for adults and children who want to give rock climbing a go. No equipment necessary.
Under new bylaws:
Before any new bolting can take place, approval must be gained from the Christchurch City Council Ranger Team.
Contact the Customer Call Centre
Phone: (03) 941 8999
Email: info@ccc.govt.nz
