Wānaka Crag Fest will return next month after a successful first event in 2024.

Run by the Wānaka Climbing Club and New Zealand Alpine Club, Wānaka Crag Fest is designed to unite climbers, build community, advance climbing skills, and promote sustainability across an action-packed weekend. 

It offers a full schedule of clinics, social events, and community activities, with something for climbers of all levels, the New Zealand Alpine Club says.

This year Wānaka Crag Fest will expand, with more tickets available, new clinics catering to a wider range of skill levels, and a special focus on youth and family accessibility. 

Clinics include those focused on young people (ages 13–18) and their caregivers, tailored to different competency levels.

“The weekend isn’t just about climbing—non-climbing activities like yoga, cold water immersion, slacklining, and acroyoga offer plenty of opportunities to connect, unwind, and try something new,” the New Zealand Alpine Club said.

Friday night (March 14) kicks off with a vendor village featuring outdoor brands, climbing competitions, quizzes, films, and prizes from sponsors. Saturday night will offer food and drinks at Velo Cafe alongside live local DJs and giveaways to round out the day.

There will also be a sustainability working bee on the Saturday afternoon, giving attendees the chance to earn their dinner by giving back to the local crags.

Wānaka Crag Fest runs from March 14-16. Find tickets and more information here.

PHOTO: Wānaka App