By Brooke Carpenter, 15 March 2026
On a glorious can’tbeatwellyonagoodday, a group of keen pebble-wrestling beans ventured out to the Pukerua Bay crag. Armed with all of the ropes, quick-draws, helmets and harnesses the gear shed had to offer, this motley crew of climbing enthusiasts began their stroll down the beach. The time had come for Rockcraft 2026! Wellington's notoriously dodgy weather had attempted to thwart our rock-loving plans, but luckily the sun rose on a bangin' Sunday and we were off.
At the crag, we split into groups based on experience (for maximum stoke exposure ofc). Some people learned belaying and safety, and had their first experience climbing on outdoor rock! Others pushed their fear-of-heights limits, bossing it up some higher routes. Some of our more experienced climbers tried their hand at some pretty techy routes, testing out new shoes and belay partners.
And it wouldn't be rockcraft without swimming and sunbathing aplenty, which the uncharacteristically stunning weather required of us. New friendships formed as people bonded over their new blisters and best sends. Some very melted lollies were shared amongst strangers, and we set a new club record for how many times the question, “so what do you study?” could be asked on one trip.
Finally, the time came where everyone had climbed their fill. Sunburnt, sore and suitably scraped up by Pukerua’s finest rocky offerings, we trudged back to the carpark. New friends made plans to meet up in lectures, at the library, and future climbing nights.
Thanks to everyone who came to learn how to send and not drop their mates! See you on the wall.