Climbing in the North Island

We only left 2 and a half weeks for the North Island as everyone we spoke to said there was not as much to see as the South. When we arrived at Bryce's climbing shop and cafe we started to regret not arriving earlier. There is loads of climbing in the North Island but just not consolidated into one guide book.

We camped overnight in a school playing field costing 3 pounds a night with flushing toilet and water- luxury.

First day we climbed at Froggat Edge, no relation to the Peak District and no similarity. The routes are well bolted sport and the rock feels like pumice stone and sounds hollow. However, the pockets and friction made for really enjoyable climbing. Dan did 10 routes grade 16 to 23, Jo a few less but lead a few.

The second day we went to Waipapa crag. Lot more technical climbing so Jo suffered a little and Dan thrutched he way up one 18 much to Jo's delight.

Dan on The Arches (18)

The third day we went to Sheridan which was back to steep, pocketed long climbing. Dan climbed loads again and was barely phased when he came across a missing bolt. Jo did a few more leads without freaking.

Jo lowering of Grade 17.

After 3 days with sore bodies and fingers it was time for more tourist stuff.