Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
If you haven’t scaled the rock yet at the first ever free Via Ferrata in New Zealand, it is blooming awesome! A beautiful setting, a 1km long course, a wire bridge, overhangs and absolutely epic views - this epic experience is one not to be missed.
Via Ferrata means ‘iron way’ in Italian - used to describe a rock climbing route using iron steps and fixed steel ropes to attach to - so you can explore our rocks in a whole new way!
We are so lucky to have the second ever via ferrata in the country, here on our doorstep, just an hour from Nelson. Opening in December 2024, over 1,500 people have already scaled the route in just a month, which is incredible.
You don’t need to be a climber, it is designed with families in mind and you can hire all the gear at Ngaru Caves, 5 mins away for only $8 (or buy it from us!)
It is recommended for over 12s but open to all ages with guardians. There is a little skills zone to try it out first and three exit points on route if you change your mind.
It’s a pretty 10 minute walk up and down to the Cliff Traverse from the car park and skills zone. The Cliff Traverse takes from 20 mins (that’s blooming quick) to 50 mins, so allow for 1 - 2 hours round trip to the car to take your time and enjoy the views.
The biggest thanks to the climbing community in Golden Bay and Via Ferrata Aotearoa for all your passion and hard work to bring this epic initiative to life.
