Sir Graeme Dingle named Patron of Aotearoa Climbing Access Trust

Sir Graeme Dingle, seen as the father of outdoor pursuits in New Zealand, has joined the Aotearoa Climbing Access Trust (ACAT) as patron of the organisation.

Sir Graeme (KNZM, MBE), seen as one of New Zealand’s greatest climbers has led the development of many climbing areas around the country and is acknowledged as a great proponent of outdoor adventure as a means of self-development, and of creating deep connections to the land and environment.

Commenting on his appointment, Sir Graeme stated “I am proud to add my name to those dedicated to protecting access to climbing areas that are such an important part of New Zealand’s culture and heritage.”

Established in 2021, ACAT is a new charitable trust that aims to promote public access to climbing areas, which are located on both public and private land. With access to such locations under threat for a variety of reasons, ACAT’s is concerned at the closure of several popular areas at a time when the sport is enjoying unprecedented growth, following its inclusion in the Tokyo Olympic Games.

ACAT advise “modern climbing gyms have also spurred a wave of popularity, which has seen more and more people getting out and enjoying outdoor climbing in our beautiful natural areas.

“Rock climbing receives little recognition or support from the Government, and landowners are often unduly concerned about potential liability if they allow visitors onto their land. ACAT is trying to bridge these gaps in a way that will see enduring solutions, which are hoped to be applicable across all outdoor recreational activities around the country.

“ACAT’s aim is to ensure that the next generation of aspiring climbers will be able to access the same opportunities for outdoor adventure and connection with nature that Sir Graeme’s generation had.”

Sir Graeme’s life-long dedication to youth development and outdoor pursuits has been recognised with numerous awards and accolades.

He founded Hillary Outdoors (previously the Outdoor Pursuits Centre) in 1973, with Sir Edmund Hillary as patron. Hillary Outdoors is a leading provider of outdoor adventure experiences for youth, and aims to sow the seeds of change and growth in everyone it works with.

Sir Graeme, with his wife Jo-anne Wilkinson, went on to create the Graeme Dingle Foundation, a leading child and youth development charity that empowers thousands of young people every year to overcome life's obstacles.

Becoming ACAT’s patron continues Sir Graeme’s commitment to investing in the community, as well as the future of outdoor recreation in Aotearoa. With his help, ACAT is seeking to build respectful relationships with landowners, iwi, and public bodies, while encouraging safe and responsible climbing and care for outdoor places.

ACAT has backing from the New Zealand Alpine Club (NZAC), a national organisation that was established more than 130 years ago to support all forms of climbing. The two organisations recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding that defines their partnership and approach to public access issues.

After months of fundraising from the climbing community, ACAT has also hired a General Manager to lead the organisation.

Postholder Edwin Sheppard is an experienced climber who has a legal background in resource management, health and safety and dispute resolution. He has been a key part of ACAT’s development since its inception and has already contributed to several access wins in the Auckland and Waikato regions.

Image: Sir Graeme Dingle, credit: Governor-General of New Zealand.