Internationally experienced and qualified guides

Aspiring Guides was founded in 1990 by IFMGA Mountain and Ski Guides Nick Cradock, Guy Cotter, and Paul Scaife. Since then other experienced guides have joined the team, with David Hiddleston becoming a director and chief guide in 2002, under the continuing leadership of Nick Cradock.

In  Nov 2004 we introduced a new director and IFMGA guide, Steve Bell, who is the founder of Jagged Globe. We now offer you the chance to climb throughout the world, from Alaska to Antarctica, from the Andes to the Himalaya; on climbs ranging from straightforward ascents such as Kilimanjaro and Cotopaxi to tougher challenges such as Denali, Khan Tengri and Everest. Our partnership means you can now look beyond New Zealand to many different corners of our planet, including all of the Seven Continental Summits.

We continue to excel as mountaineers with first ascents of NZ's technical alpine routes, ascents of international technical peaks and extensive successful expedition climbing experience on Cerro Torre, Shivling, Uli Biaho, El Capitan and Alaskan big walls.

As guides we have guided and instructed guests of all ability levels to greater heights and new elements of self discovery within the Southern Alps of New Zealand and worldwide, including Everest, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, Shishapangma, and the Sydney Opera House! We are about action.

In New Zealand and worldwide, our mountaineering achievements combine with a comprehensive knowledge of the history of guiding and instruction. These are the fundamental ingredients in providing a safe and enlightening connection between our guests and the mountain environment.

Whilst our activities are centred from our base in the Mount Aspiring region, our permits and experience extend throughout the Southern Alps including Fiordland, Westland and Mt. Cook National Parks. This is a vast area, diverse in geography.

We have 'hand-picked' specialist guides from within the industry, in light of their qualifications, knowledge, experience level and communication skills. We employ NZMGA / UIAGM (New Zealand Mountain Guides Association / International Federation of Mountain Guides Association) certified men and women who share our professional and innovative approach.

Our high level of expertise, comprehensive logistics support and refreshing personalities are the basis of Aspiring Guides' internationally renowned reputation for providing a quality and personalised service.

Meet the crew here.