I’ve been getting out into the high Canterbury plains recently for some great outdoor climbing. Flock Hill in particular is considered a world-class boulder field, by NZ natives and visiting climbers alike.

Compared to most rock climbing, Flock is weird. There are a lot of sloping holds that are hard to get a handle on, and lots of nasty topouts with tough mantles. It’s hard to look cool when the only way to get on top of a climb is to beach yourself like a whale and wiggle to the safety. Exhibit A:

Oof.

Below are a couple shots from a recent all-day session at the hill, that hopefully make climbing look a bit cooler, and give a good perspective of the unique limestone at Flock Hill.