I, for one, am disgusted at the prospect of
paying to climb at Froggatt, and I know many others who are equally upset.
This area has been developed over the years by a
variety of people who want the best climbing environment possible, at
great cost to themselves in both time and money.
Having to pay to utilise what these people have selflessly
established for the general climbing population is a travesty.
While the idea of boosting the sport’s profile
both in New Zealand and overseas is noble, the reality is that the
underlying aim is profit. This
is not a reason to modify the area - this is to line the pockets of the
land owner. If Trevor Johnson
was sincere in his intentions, he would not only focus on drawing more
beginners to the area, he would improve it for all levels of ability.
I have seen many corporate groups participate in climbing, and have
found that for the majority, it is not a sport they adopt as a regular
activity. It is of novelty
value, and therefore, only done in certain “team-building”
circumstances or as part of a conference etc.
Froggatt has been well-looked after by climbers
for many years. We are
careful of both the rock environment and the surrounding farmland. The “improvements” suggested seem unnecessary given that
the area has not suffered in the long years of use.
Bryce has provided accommodation and friendly advice to so many
climbers travelling the area, why do we need a lodge?
We can park a few minutes walk away, why do we need a carpark?
Isn’t it better to keep as many natural features as possible, rather
than spoil the landscape? Will
it still have that same feeling of peace with all the “improvements”
in place?
I wholeheartedly support the opposition to this
move, and sincerely hope that other crags do not compromise themselves in
the pursuit of commercialisation. Surely
we should be able to enjoy what nature so freely provides?
Dusty
