Vertical Adventures is an indoor rock climbing gym at 5 Waikaukau Road in Glen Eden, West Auckland, with more than 30 uniquely themed walls. The routes run from absolute beginners to advanced climbers, and there are child-centred climbing activities for young climbers. Everyone climbing must fill out a waiver and complete an orientation first. The gym runs themed climb nights and competitions, including one for climbers aged 8 to 18 who represent their school. It also hosts children's birthday parties for groups of five or more than twenty kids, with several options for girls and boys. Bookings and enquiries go through 09 818 3038.
The gym gives the proceeds from its arcade machines to national charities, and it helps schools and youth groups raise funds. Its climbers include a registered instructor who has climbed for more than 25 years. Our pick in Glen Eden for a birthday party with a climbing wall and a view of the older kids on the routes.