Who we are
Cromwell Climbing is a charitable trust dedicated to fostering, encouraging, and promoting rock climbing and bouldering as a healthy pursuit in the Cromwell area. We began this journey in 2017 by fully equipping Bannockburn Crag. With sustained effort Cromwell now has numerous sport climbing crags, bouldering areas and adventurous multipitch routes all nestled near the waters of Lake Dunstan.
The inclusion of Cromwell in the 2024 edition of the Queenstown Rock, Ice and Boulders guidebook marked a significant milestone in our journey.
We are now working, in partnership with Cromwell College, to establish a community bouldering wall at the college.
Our Mission
The Trust’s mission extends beyond the construction of a facility. We are committed to:
Physical and Mental Wellbeing: Promoting climbing and bouldering as a life-long sport that builds resilience and physical health.
Education: Partnering with local schools and outdoor education programs to develop technical skills and safety awareness.
Environmental Stewardship: Managing and conserving local outdoor climbing areas, ensuring sustainable public access and the protection of the natural environment through regular maintenance and native planting.
Community Connection: Creating a social hub that connects residents, youth, and visitors, strengthening the social fabric of Cromwell.
Community Bouldering Wall
The facility is designed to fill a long-standing gap in local infrastructure, providing a safe, all-weather space for bouldering and climbing. The wall will be used for educational purposes during school hours and open to the public 2 to 4 nights a week and possibly on weekends. The more volunteer supervisors we have the more nights and weekends we can open - contact us to get involved!
The project is backed by a significant community mandate; 475 survey respondents showed support for the project.
The current project completion date is autumn 2027, subject to fundraising.
Our location
Located in the heart of Cromwell, Cromwell Climbing is perfectly positioned for climbers exploring the Cromwell crag and boulders. Just a short drive from both Queenstown and Wanaka, two of the country's top adventure hubs, our location offers easy access to a diverse range of climbing experiences.
Whether you're tackling the challenging routes around the rugged landscapes of Queenstown, exploring the stunning crags near Wanaka, or enjoying the unique climbing spots right here in Cromwell, you'll find suited to all skill levels. Together, these three destinations provide some of the best climbing environments in the country.