Callum Grant
NZMGA Climbing Guide, Assist Ski Guide
Callum has been climbing in the Southern Alps of New Zealand since his teens and loves everything about the outdoors, from mountain biking to hunting and fishing. Whilst his summers are spent climbing guiding, in winter he can be found on the slopes of the Treble Cone Ski Area patrolling alongside his avalanche dog, or ski guiding in the Southern Alps.
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Bio
Raised in Cromwell, New Zealand and now based in Wanaka, Callum has climbed extensively throughout New Zealand's Southern Alps.
He started climbing in 1990 at age 17 and shortly after that, in 1996, became a guide. He is now a fully qualified NZMGA Climbing Guide.
Prior to joining the team at AC, Callum spent ten summer seasons as an NZMGA Glacier Guide at Franz Josef Glacier on the West Coast of NZ. He knows how to cut steps - really well! He also spent several seasons guiding in the Mount Cook region.
Callum's laid-back style and iconic Kiwi sense of humour make him a popular guide. He professes to be too busy working, but is often seen blazing a trail on his mountain bike or hanging out at the rock climbing crags in Wanaka. He also occasionally manages to find time for a boating or hunting trip here and there.
When asked what he likes most about climbing, Callum said, "Just being outside and getting close to nature... and having a bit of excitement as well."
When guiding, he enjoys taking people into great areas and helping them achieve their goals and dreams.
Callum's most memorable climb is his first peak, Mount Tasman, New Zealand's second highest peak.
Winter sees Callum working at Treble Cone Ski Area as a ski patroller alongside his famous avalanche dog, Zeffer. According to Callum, Treble Cone is a great spot for skiing fresh powder and lobbing bombs about (aka avalanche control).
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Callum's Testimonials
"Callum was friendly, professional and welcoming, whilst making sure to build a sense of fun into the trip."
Luke Foster, MIC, 2019"Callum was very organised and always had a back-up plan. I felt very comfortable and safe the entire time. He was an awesome teacher and explained things really well."
Mary O’Callaghan, MIC, 2019"Callum was phenomenal! He ensured we felt safe and were safe at all times, gave clear instructions, kept the group atmosphere light and fun, and he did a great job feeding us!"
Gurdeep Singh, MIC, 2019
"Callum was outstanding, his enthusiasm encouragement and skills teaching matched very well to our group. He tailored the activities to the needs of the whole group very well."
Ben Barber, MIC 2018"Callum was an outstanding guide and made the trip a very memorable and rewarding experience. His professionalism, knowledge and courtesy was outstanding. You always felt safe with his instruction, even when you were outside your personal comfort zone."
Michael Bohlscheid, MIC, 2018