Wanaka Rock Guide, 2026

A comprehensive guide to Wānaka Rock Climbing. 

Welcome to Wānaka: a holiday destination of choice for Kiwi families, adventurous travellers, New Year revellers and discerning rock climbers.

So what’s all the fuss about? With magnificent snowcapped mountains and lush rain forest in the west, deep blue lakes and golden tussock country in the east; the Wānaka region offers a fantastic climate, a vibrant scene and a high standard of development. From humble beginnings as a temporary distraction for frustrated alpinists waiting out the weather, the Wānaka rock scene has evolved into a modern, multifaceted and compelling playground for the beginner and obsessive rock athlete alike. 

The crags boast over 1000 routes, ranging from bouldering on the lake front to multi-pitch adventures on the spectacular fringes of Mount Aspiring National Park; from pleasant scrambles to desperate thuggery. Whether you want sunny faces or leafy, shaded walls—you’ll find them, all set in a stunning montane landscape.

This new 2026 edition (the 9th, perhaps a record for NZ rock climbing?) contains nearly 100 new routes since the 2021 edition, Treble Cone back on the map now that there is summer access, nobody called Bruce on the cover, and numerous corrections and access changes.

Author: Wānaka Climbing Club & NZAC