Do I need prior climbing experience for the Trad Climbing Course?

Basic climbing experience or comfort on rock surfaces is helpful but not required as the course is tailored to your skill level.

What equipment is provided during the course?

All necessary climbing gear, including trad gear, ropes, helmets, and harnesses, is provided.

How physically demanding is the course?

The course requires moderate fitness, including some hiking and climbing movements, lasting up to 7.5 hours.

Can the course accommodate individual needs?

Yes, each course is personalized to match participants' goals and previous experience.

What should I bring with me?

Wear layered clothing, bring water, snacks, and sturdy shoes suitable for rocky terrain.

Is the course suitable for multi-pitch trad climbing instruction?

Yes, the course covers both single and multi-pitch trad climbing techniques.

Trad Climbing Course with Raglan Rock in Raglan NZ | Climbing

Raglan, a coastal town on New Zealand’s North Island, is known for its rugged volcanic cliffs and expansive surf beaches. But beyond the waves, Raglan Rock stands out as a gateway to one of the purest forms of climbing: traditional rock climbing. The Trad Climbing Course offered here is more than just a lesson; it’s an initiation into the foundational skills that define climbing before bolts and fixed hardware became standard.

The region’s unique geology provides an ideal classroom. Composed primarily of volcanic and sandstone formations, the cliffs invite climbers to place their own gear on natural cracks and edges - the essence of trad climbing. Raglan Rock’s seasoned guides, with climbing experience spanning South Africa, Scotland, Jordan, and Norway, bring a worldly perspective to the local crags. Their expertise ensures instruction isn’t just about technique, but also about climber safety, risk management, and respect for the natural environment.

This course covers the full trad repertoire: from selecting and placing equipment like cams and nuts, to mastering advanced belaying and anchor systems. The flexibility to tailor the experience means climbers of various skill levels leave with the confidence to tackle both single and multi-pitch routes on their own.

Raglan Rock’s presence enriches the local adventure landscape by bridging global climbing standards with New Zealand’s unique rock features. The company’s commitment to sustainable practices preserves the environment climbers cherish while fostering a climbing community that values knowledge, preparedness, and independence.

Whether you’re brushing up on your skills or starting your trad climbing journey, the course is a must for those serious about taking climbing beyond gym walls or sport routes, into the authentic challenges of the wild. Raglan is not just a surf town—it’s a launching point for mastering rock climbing’s most rewarding discipline.