The Central North Island is a vast area, incorporating numerous outlets for any adventure-minded person. Mt Ruapehu and the central volcanoes are ground zero for mountaineers in the North Island and offer spectacular alpine, ice climbing, rock climbing, skiing and ski touring opportunities. Numerous high-quality crags abound from Waikato in the north to Kawakawa Bay to Whanganui Bay.

The Section

The Central North Island (CNI) Section of the New Zealand Alpine Club was established in 1987, it includes the Coromandel, Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Taupo.

The Central North Island and Auckland Sections are responsible for the Ruapehu Hut maintenance programme.

Central North Island also has the main responsibility for the upkeep of Whangaehu Hut.

Link to the Section Facebook page: Alpine Central

Meetings

Monthly section meetings are held 7:30 pm, on the second Wednesday of the month. Please check the latest newsletter for any changes to the venue, but usually, they are held at the House on Hood, 27 Hood Street, Hamilton Central

Courses

The section organises excellent beginner and intermediate level snow-craft instruction courses every year These are held at the Whakapapa ski field. Details are advertised in the section newsletter, or email the Instruction Coordinator for more information.

2024 CNI Basic Snowcraft Info Pack is available here

2024 CNI Intermediate Snowcraft Info Pack is available here

South Island Grant 2025

We’re excited to announce a $1000 South Island Grant to help one motivated climber from the CNI Section make their way south for a climbing adventure!
This grant is intended to support an aspiring climber with a clear objective—whether it’s ticking off a classic route, pushing personal limits, or exploring somewhere new. 
If you’ve been dreaming of a mission to the South Island, this is your chance to make it happen.
To apply, simply fill out the attached form outlining:
• Your climbing objective or trip plan
• What makes this adventure special
• Why you’re a great candidate for the grant
Whether you’re chasing alpine classics, sharpening your trad skills, or planning a new rock route, we want to hear from you!
Successful applicants must provide a trip report, photos from the trip to be used on the CNI section social media, and make themselves available to speak about their trip at a CNI section night.
Applications close Sunday June 22nd at 8pm, so don’t miss out—get your form in and show us what you’re aiming for.

Application form: https://forms.gle/77CcMVLA71VJT2oh8

Gear Hire

Email: Dennis Sanders or phone 027 436 6703

Committee

Section Chairman and CCM Rep

James Lawson
Email

Snowcraft Coordinator

Michael Greer
Email 

Treasurer

Marcus Bai
Email

Secretary

vacant
Email
TBA

Gear Hire

Dennis Sanders
Email

Banff Coordinator

Dean Stringer
Email

Newsletter

vacant

Trip Co-ordinator

Mike Greer
Email

Committee

Lars Brabyn
Email