9-day Technical Mountaineering Course (TMC) - OENZ

4

9-Day Technical Mountaineering Course (TMC)

Master the Skills to Climb New Zealand’s Mountains Safely and Independently

This comprehensive 9-day mountaineering course combines our 4-day Introduction to Alpine & Avalanche Skills and 6-day Alpine Rope Skills courses into one intensive learning experience. Whether you're new to alpine environments or aiming to climb independently, this course covers everything from foundational snow travel to advanced ropework, avalanche safety, and crevasse rescue.

Delivered by highly skilled local guides in Arthur’s Pass National Park and the Craigieburn Range, this course gives you access to world-class peaks such as Mt Temple, Mt Cheeseman, and Mt Cassidy. With both lodge and alpine hut accommodation, real backcountry immersion, and hands-on training in varied terrain, you'll develop the skills and confidence needed for mountaineering in New Zealand’s Southern Alps.

No prior mountaineering experience is required—just a solid level of fitness and a passion for learning in the mountains.

Course Highlights

• Crampon and ice axe techniques

• Avalanche awareness, transceiver use, and rescue scenarios

• Glacier travel and crevasse rescue systems (2:1 and 5:1 hauls)

• Snow anchors, belaying, and alpine ropework

• Abseiling and climbing in 2-3 person teams

• Emergency snow shelters and snow caving

• Route planning and mountain weather interpretation

Accommodation

• Days 1–4: Lodge accommodation in Arthur’s Pass Village

• Days 5–9: Temple Basin Alpine Lodge, with one night potentially in a snow cave or alpine hut

Catering

• Days 1–4: Self-catered (access to full kitchen)

• Days 5–9: Fully catered by Temple Basin Lodge staff (breakfast, dinner, dessert)

Location

Primarily based in Arthur’s Pass National Park with a backup option in Craigieburn Forest Park depending on weather conditions.

Age

• Must be over 18 years old

Gear & Transport

• All technical gear provided (bring your own if preferred)

• Free transport available from selected Christchurch hotels

• Meeting points: Yaldhurst McDonald’s, Darfield Bakery (preferred), Castle Hill Village

Learn the essential mountaineering skills to take on New Zealand’s alpine terrain with confidence, safety, and independence. Book your TMC experience today.