Northern Rocks

I’m not quite sure about this place. With so few bouldering gyms in Auckland, you really want to support each one, but I’ve had more experiences here that left me feeling off than welcome. I joined the women’s bouldering workshop, and the women running it, along with the other participants, were all lovely! That said, I’d recommend it more for the social side than for engaged learning. It’s very casual, and the gym is too noisy and busy to really focus.nnThe general staff vibe wasn’t great. The first staff member I encountered seemed disinterested and didn’t clearly explain where I needed to go, even after I mentioned it was my first time. Another time, I tried to buy chalk during their 20% off winter sale and was told the discount was for members only, even though their Instagram team later confirmed it was meant to be for everyone.nnThe gym isn’t very clean and a bit smelly, so I usually leave feeling a bit gross. Another thing which I hate to be a Karen about because I do love animals is that people sometimes have their dogs with them, running around the gym. While they are cute, it adds to the hygiene concerns. What if someone is allergic, and personally I don’t want to be touching dog hair or smelling dog while I’m trying to climb.nnIf I do keep going, it will be purely out of convenience, but for the price, I’m not convinced it’s worth it.

Really good atmosphere with some nice routes.nCame here on a whim during an Auckland visit and was not disappointed by the quality of the setting or the venue. Had great interactions with both the staff. Decently priced with a very generous first time offer giving you free access for the following week. Dog friendly which is a huge plus.nWould recommend coming if you want to try out bouldering

A great time, with a great community.nnEvery time I visit, I am greeted with a warm smile from the staff and a smooth, straightforward sign-in process.nnThe team has always been fantastic. Special mention goes to Bodhi, who makes an excellent cup of coffee and brings a friendly, welcoming presence. Tom is also consistently helpful, responsive, and professional, with a clear and approachable way of explaining things that makes climbing easier to understand and more enjoyable. It feels reassuring to know you are supported by such capable and caring staff.nnThe climbs themselves are always well thought out, scaling for climbers of any skill level. I always find there is plenty to do and many enjoyable climbs to work on.nnThe hangout areas are really nice too. You can sit down on a comfortable couch before or after your workout and chat with your mates in the welcoming Northern Rocks community. Everyone there seems kind, encouraging, and good-spirited, and I have made many great friends over the years.nnIf you are looking for a place to try bouldering, or for a community of great climbers supported by a warm and professional team, I highly recommend Northern Rocks. In my opinion, they are a true staple of Auckland’s North Shore community and always worth a visit.

Awesome gym with a mix of old school style setting and dyno/coordination. Because it’s smaller it has a more community/friendly vibe. They also have a tension board 2 and a large yoga studio upstairs! They also allow dogs! My only gripe is that the gym area is on the smaller side.

Amazing gym and wonderful people. Tom and Tiffany are especially great people and deserve raises. Very hospitable and helpful.nnThe gym has some of the most fun problems I've climbed. Everything is tidy.nnSome air filtration units chalk scrubbers could improve air safety for regulars and employees, though.

Directions to Northern Rocks with public transportation

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