Remember, your conduct will influence the
availability of climbing areas.
Safe Climbing Practices
It is in every climbers interest to employ safe climbing practices.
Besides the obvious harm you could cause to yourself or others as a result
of an accident, accidents also reduces support for the sport. Please
adopt safe climbing practices and encourage others to do the same.
Permission
Even where access is granted, it's usually a good idea to visit or call
the landowner and confirm it is alright to venture on their land. In other
cases gaining permission prior to accessing the land or climbing is a requirement, so please observe the wishes of the landowner.
Route Naming
Route naming is the prerogative of the first ascensionist. By all means
be creative when selecting a route name, but please give special
consideration to the language used in the name or possible cultural
implications associated with the name. Care should be taken to select an inoffensive
name, to do otherwise may jeopardise access.
Language
It is often difficult to refrain from using expletives, especially when
you're falling. However please bear in mind that sound travels and
inappropriate language may offend landowners, local community members and
other climbers.
Cultural & Religious Considerations
Please respect the cultural or religious beliefs of others. Of
particular importance in New Zealand are "Tapu" (restrictions)
placed in Maori lands, in particular burial grounds. There are numerous
examples where access to climbing areas has been (or is) denied for
such reasons. We can ill afford further restrictions because people fail
to observe the beliefs of others.
Gates & Fences
It's simple, leave gates as you find them and cross locked gates at the
hinge end. If you need to cross a fence use styles where they are
available otherwise cross at strainer posts and avoid standing on the
wire.
Camping
Only camp in locations that have been designated for that purpose.
Always obtain the landowners permission prior to camping on private land.
When you leave a camp site ensure you leave nothing behind.
