NZ Alpine Club (South Canterbury)

What to Expect at NZ Alpine Club (South Canterbury)

At the NZ Alpine Club (South Canterbury), members cherish the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that defines responsible mountain recreation. This welcoming club fosters a passion for climbing and tramping through organised trips that prioritise safety and enjoyment. What sets it apart is the hands-on approach to skill-building, from mountain safety courses that equip you with vital knowledge to mid-week wall and crag climbing sessions during summer at Spur Road, expertly run by Kelly Cooney. Members love the opportunity to maintain key sites like Unwin Lodge, while showing interest in Murchison and Godley Huts, ensuring these alpine treasures remain accessible for all. The club's library adds depth, offering a treasure trove of instruction books, early journals, American climbing magazines, and instructional videos on techniques and knots. Gear hire, coordinated by Gary Brehaut, provides essential tools such as ice axes, crampons, snow shovels, avalanche transceivers, snowshoes, personal locator beacons, and snow stakes, making adventures more attainable. Gather at monthly meetings held at the Police Social Room on North Street, Timaru, at 8pm on the second-to-last Thursday of each month (except December and January) to share stories and plan your next outing in this vibrant community of outdoor enthusiasts.

Where to Find Us

Located in Timaru Central, Timaru 7910, in the heart of Canterbury's South Island landscape, the NZ Alpine Club (South Canterbury) is deeply connected to a region renowned for its rugged mountains and pioneering outdoor heritage. Timaru's position in the Canterbury district offers easy access to diverse terrains ideal for tramping and climbing, from coastal paths to alpine heights that have drawn adventurers for generations. The club's activities tie directly into this storied environment, promoting safe exploration of local peaks and valleys while contributing to the upkeep of iconic spots like Unwin Lodge and the huts at Murchison and Godley. This base in Timaru not only anchors the club's operations but also enhances its role in nurturing a sustainable connection to the area's natural beauty, inviting all to experience the timeless allure of New Zealand's outdoors through organised trips, safety training, and community-driven initiatives.