Templates / Climbing & bouldering
Climbing & bouldering waiver template.
Free starting-point wording for New Zealand climbing & bouldering operators. Copy it, or have it live as a digital form in about a minute.
Use this as a digital form, free →Climbing participant acknowledgement
Climbing involves height, and falls happen even when everything is done correctly. Matting and ropes reduce the risk of injury. They do not remove it.
The risks
- Falls from height, including uncontrolled falls onto matting when bouldering.
- Sprains, fractures and more serious injury from bad landings.
- Being struck by a falling climber, hold or equipment.
- Rope burn, and injury caused by incorrect belaying, knots or harness fitting by you or another climber.
The rules
- Complete the induction before you climb, and only belay if you have been assessed as competent by our staff.
- Check your harness, knot and belay device with your partner before every climb.
- Never stand or walk underneath another climber. Keep fall zones clear.
- Climb within your ability and down-climb where you can when bouldering.
- Children must be supervised as explained at reception.
Acknowledgement
- I have read and understood the risks and rules above, and I have had the chance to ask questions.
- I am taking part voluntarily and I will follow the instructions of staff at all times.
- The information I have given is true, and I have disclosed any medical condition or injury that could affect my safety or the safety of others.
- For each person under 18 listed below: I am their parent or legal guardian (or I am authorised by their parent or guardian to sign for them), and I consent to them taking part on the same terms.
I understand that Your Business takes reasonable care to run this activity safely, that it cannot remove every risk, and that I am responsible for my own behaviour and for following the rules. Nothing in this form limits any rights I have under New Zealand law that cannot be excluded, including ACC cover.
Why it's worded this way
You'll notice it doesn't say "I release the operator from all liability". In New Zealand, ACC covers personal injury and people generally can't sue for compensation for injuries ACC covers, and an operator can't sign away its health and safety duties. So a sweeping American-style release adds little here and can look like you're hiding something. What's useful is a clear record that the person was told the risks, agreed to the rules, and gave you the medical and emergency details you need. More in the plain-English guide.
Not legal advice. This is a starting point. Swap "Your Business" for your name, change anything that doesn't match how you operate, and have the final version checked by your lawyer or insurer.