Ross McGarva and John Jamieson were the first climbers to visit Sheridan Hills in March of 1991. Bryce Martin tagged along on their second trip when they did their first climb, Hotter Than a Very Hot Thing, adding one of his own, Hannah Louise, on the same day. Bryce returned with Dave Garrity and they climbed “Arms Control” and “Canard” on their first visit, then with regular visits through the winter added a further 36 routes.
Come spring and the light-weights came out to play: first Craig Miller for a brief stint before emigrating to Canada, and then a team of newbie apprentices: Cliff Ellery, Dean Maxwell, and Michael Camilleri.
Important: Due to the presence of cattle in the area around this crag it is now mandatory to contact the landowners before accessing the property. This is related to biosecurity measures around M. Bovis. Each time you climb at Sheridan Hills, as you enter send a text to 027 527 1744 with (a) your full name and place of residence, (b) number in party, (c) your phone number and another form of contact, e.g. email, home address, etc. If no text is received you will be asked to leave. (Conditions updated 18 August 2020).
Access may be denied or restricted during lambing, August through to September. Dogs are not permitted at any time.
From Wharepapa South, take Aotearoa Road which becomes Wharepapa South Road and then Seafund Road. The crag is on your right, just past the turnoff to Newman Road. Park off to the side of the road opposite the crag, taking care not to block any gates.
