Start rock climbing and give up sex

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 14, Issue 667, 17 December 1996, Page 25 (Supplement)

Start rock climbing and give up sex

By

Mark

Sedon

A lot Of people have a old fashioned attitude about rock climbing which has been associated with the sport since the days when 'climbing was dangerous and sex was safe' . Nowadays things are different. Rock climbing is fast becoming a huge sport with millions of dollars being spent world-wide on designing state of the art stifety equipment and artificial climbing walls. Climbing walls are starting to make an jmpact in the Ruapehu region and with the proper instruction they are the perfect introduction to the sport for the novice. Experienced climbers will also enjoy the iocal climbing walls so why not throw your climbing shoes in with your ski gear when you come for your holiday? There are several walls in the area, the Waiouru Army Base has a huge indoor wall in their gymnasium but call ahead first to check it's not in use. In Ohakune there are two new climbing walls, one three-story high on the end wall of the Powderhorn Chateau Ph 06 3858 888. The Venture Lodge also has a climbing

wall as well as a ropes course, call them on 06-3858-933 for more information. Both places offer gear hire and instruction. On the Whakapapa side of the mountain try the Sir Edmond Hillary Outdoor Pursuits Centre of New Zealand (OPC), Turangi, Ph 07-386-55 1 1 . They have three climbing walls, two indoor, and offer instruction and gear hire. Call first for information. For the more experienced' climber the area can offer some great opportunities for getting on some good rock. The Mangatepopo Valley at the base of Mt Ngauruhoe is the principal crag, with more than 140 routes established on nine cliffs up to 120m high. You' 11 need a Central North Island Rock Guide by Pete Manning to find theclimbs though. Whanganui Bay, thought by many to have the best rock climbing in New Zealand, is only a 90-minute drive from Ohakune. Rock Climbing has certain very real risks involved and should not be attempted without proper instruction. But done properiy it can be one of the most challenging and rewarding sports in the world. Have a go sometime, but be careful, you may like it.