Miscellaneous Mountaineering Gear

This page provides information to help you choose the right kind of gear for your NZ mountaineering trip - alphabetically listed.

Avalanche Probe

Should be collapsible, and minimum 2.8 metre length.

Avalanche Transceiver

457 kHz is the international standard. We provide these when conditions require.

Barometer/altimeter watch

Bring if you have one. They are useful for weather forecasting and navigation.

Belay Device

We recommend the ATC-Guide from Black Diamond. This has a regular and high friction mode, great holding power and lowering capabilities. It also has auto-locking mode which is great for belaying directly off your anchor, or for use as an auto-block in rescue situations.

Compass & GPS

Any reasonable quality compass, such as used for orienteering will do. Make sure it is balanced for this part of the globe. Bring your GPS if you wish.

Drinking mug

There will be cups in the hut, but having your own mug is more hygienic. Lightweight thermal resistant plastic mugs (with lids) are best.

Headlamp

For hands-free work you need a reliable light source. Headlamps with a combination halogen bulb and LED's are recommended. The bright bulb is needed for navigating. LED’s are perfect for working, and reading at base. Using LED's gives longer battery life. Modern LED only headlamp technology offers brightness almost as good as a halogen bulb.

Hydration systems

Avoid using bladder/hose systems during winter. You are welcome to use a bladder system in summer, but they can still freeze during colder weather. They are also prone to punctures from sharp climbing hardware. For longer trips, always carry a backup water bottle - just in case.

Multi-tools

Useful for emergency repair jobs, especially if it has pliers. Look for Swiss army or Leatherman style tools.

Prusiks

Prusiks are 5-6 mm width nylon kernmantle cord, or spectra. We recommend carrying 2 short and one long prusiks for most situations.

  • A short prusik loop is "nose to navel" length when tied
  • A long prusik "navel to ground" when tied

Rock Protection

In general alpine climbing situations your guide will carry a small rack, but you are welcome to bring your own gear. At most bring bring 3 or 4 wires, and 1 or 2 small to medium cramming devices.

Ski Goggles

Used in winter, and also in bad weather/flat light conditions during the summer months. A yellow lens offers best definition. We recommend having a pair of goggles. You may not use them often, but they are invaluable when really needed!

Slings

You need at least 2 slings:

  • “Long sling" is approx 4 metres before tying off
  • “Short sling" is approx 3 metres before tying off

We use 16 to 20 mm width tubular tape in our rental stock. This resists abrasion well, especially when anchoring/belaying off alpine rock. If you bring your own slings (especially pre-stitched slings) 12mm tape will suffice. These should be rated to 22KN or better.

Snow Shovel

Must be strong and lightweight, with a metal blade (usually an aluminium alloy). Models with detachable handles are recommended.

Snow Study Kit

This includes a dial stem thermometer, magnifying lens, crystal grid, waterproof notebook, and pencil.

Sunglasses

Glare off the snow can seriously damage your eyes. Either mountain glasses (preferably with side shields) or high quality wrap-around sports sunglasses should be used. Your glasses must fit snugly and give 100% UV A, B, & C protection. We stock suitable glasses in our store.

Survival Bag

If you do not have a Bivouac bag, a survival bag should always be carried for an emergency shelter. These are usually large durable plastic bags.

Telescopic hiking poles

Help take strain off your knees when walking on rough terrain, or soft snow. Using one is recommended, especially for walking out of the mountains.

Water Bottles

We recommend you carry a minimum of 2 litres water. 2 one litre bottles are ideal. Wide-neck bottles with ‘unbreakable’ materials (e.g. Nalgene®) are the preferred option.

Waterproof Pack Liner

A large durable plastic bag (one which doubles as an emergency bivvy bag) is ideal. Alternatively use one or 2 garbage bags for packing clothing inside your backpack.

Pre-trip Information

The details to help you prepare for your Alpine Guides mountain adventure.

Topics Include:

How "hard" will the course be?

Are you ready? How does Mt Cook compare to Mount Aspiring? Read about Trip Difficulty ›