Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Via Ferrata?
• How many clients are there to guides?
• So how do you actually ascend the Via Ferrata?
• What do you provide us with?
• What do I need to bring for Via Ferrata, abseiling or rock climbing
• How long does the Via Ferrata trip take?
• Do you provide transport?
• How much does it cost?
• How safe is Via Ferrata?
• What qualifications do the guides have?
• Can we bring our own camera?
• Do you need previous experience for rock climbing or mountaineering?
• Do you operate all year round?
• Minimum Age Limit?
• When does adult price apply?
• Are the activities weather dependant?
• Do you hire clothing and equipment?
• Can I have my own private guide?
• I want to climb my first mountain?

What is a Via Ferrata?

The Rungway is a Via Ferrata. The term Via Ferrata literally translates as Iron Way. It’s a way of scaling cliff faces using permanently fixed rungs, pegs, rails, ladders and cables. They have been in existence for more than a century and were used in the world wars to rapidly move troops through the high mountain terrain. They have since become very popular with recreational users, especially in Europe with hundreds in existence.

How many clients are there to guides?

For your enjoyment and safety, we limit our client:guide ratio to 4-6 clients to one guide. This doesn’t mean you can’t come out with a large group; we have a lot of guides that enable us to cater to any sized group. These small groups ensure that you get the full attention of your guide and it fosters a very fun, safe and enjoyable environment. Our Rock Climbing trips have a 1:4 instructor/guide limit to ensure your safety.

So how do you actually ascend the Via Ferrata?

Via Ferrata is a series of rungs, pegs, rails and ladders permanently fixed into the cliff face. Alongside of these is a permanently fixed steel cable, divided into 2-3 metre sections. It is this cable that you are connected to at all times. We provide you with a climbing harness and attached to this is a specially designed lanyard system made up of 2 karabiners and a resting karabiner. You start by clipping your 2 karabiners onto the cable, then begin climbing up the rungs until you reach the next section of cable. Now you clip your resting karabiner onto the rung in front of you, then one at a time transfer your karabiners over to the next section of cable before unclipping your resting karabiner to continue your ascent. It’s as simple as that and it’s this system that allows you to easily and safely ascend some very technical terrain without any previous climbing experience. (picture of foot on rungs, karabiner to help explain)

What do you provide us with?

We will give you a climbing harness, helmet and gloves to use in some of the colder winter months. We will also provide you with a highly qualified guide and transport from downtown Queenstown. Rock shoes are also provided on Rock Climbing trips. For mountaineering trips we provide all the technical equipment including ice axe, crampons and avalanche transceiver.

What do I need to bring for Via Ferrata, abseiling or rock climbing?

A pair of outdoor shoes – you don·t need hiking boots, a pair of running shoes is perfectly suitable. Make sure you dress in comfortable clothing that is suited to the weather on the day. Dress in layers as all of our cliffs are north facing and even on the coldest days it can be very warm once you get into the swing of things. Also bring along some sunscreen and water.

How long does the Via Ferrata trip take?

Best to allow 4 hours from pick up to return.

Do you provide transport?

Yes, we will pick you up from Outside Sports on Shotover St in our courtesy van.

How much does it cost?

Click here for the prices of each of our trips.

How safe is Via Ferrata?

Each rung, rail, peg, ladder and cable is drilled into the rock face and anchored into place using industrial adhesive, making it stronger than the rock itself! Regular safety inspections and maintenance are carried out on all the cliffs and their attachments with harnesses, helmets and equipment being checked daily. To top all of this off your climbing harness and ropes are strong enough to hold the weight of 2 family sized vehicles! All of this provides you with a piece of mind that allows you to enjoy your experience to the fullest.

What qualifications do the guides have?

All of our head guides are qualified in outdoor instruction and are members of the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association (NZOIA) or members of the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association.

Can we bring our own camera?

Yes this is a must as the views are amazing!

Do you need previous experience for rock climbing or mountaineering?

No, full instruction is given for both activities. However if you require advanced instruction or high end climbing please email us with your requirements. We can cater for all ability levels.

Do you operate all year round?

The Rungway, Rock Climbing, Abseiling and Mountaineering operate all year round. The Ice Climbing only operates during winter, June to September. The trekking option only operates from October to April.

Minimum Age Limit?

The Minimum age for Rungway and Abseiling is 8 years.

When does adult price apply?

16years and above the adult price applies.

Are the activities weather dependant?

Rungway, Abseiling and Trekking operate in almost all weather conditions. These activites are still great fun in the rain. Rock Climbing and Mountaineering can be weather dependant.

Do you hire clothing and equipment?

We operate out of Outside Sports and Outside Sports has a huge range of the latest clothing to hire. Such as waterproof breathable rain wear, boots and back packs.

Can I have my own private guide?

Yes we can arrange a private guiding trip for you. With your own private guide the possibilities on the rock and snow are endless. This is the best option for learning specific skills or climbing a specific peak.

I want to climb my first mountain?

We suggest Single Cone, the highest point on the Remarkables. Single Cone is off the main divide and generally misses all the bad weather, therefore many days a year this mountain is climbable. The climb is challenging, however is attainable for a first time climber under the supervision of our guides. Awesome in both winter and summer.