Competitive arborists from around New Zealand will be scaling the trees around Nelson’s church steps as fast as they can. Source: Stuff.co.nz, Nelson Mail
Around 30 climbers, with several world champions amongst them, have gathered for a two-day national tree climbing competition.
Competitor Tumai Laybourn from Auckland said he had worked in arboriculture for the last 15 years and had been competing in tree climbing competitions for the last six or so.
“It relates to our job, it’s a sport, running around the trees is so fun but also just meeting up with everyone here, all the climbers are so nice and supportive, that’s the main thing about this, everyone helps each other out,” he said.
His first climb of the event was the footlock, where competitors head straight up a rope, locking it between their feet in mid-air and ringing a bell when they reach the top.
Mr Laybourn said he often climbed trees as a kid and never really grew out of it.
“I lived on a farm so there wasn’t much to do but climb trees,” said Mr Laybourn.
He said those who competed in tree climbing competitions such as himself liked the outdoors and working hard.
“To be honest, I almost think you have to be a bit crazy to do this job, working at heights it is a bit dangerous with chainsaws and stuff up the trees,” he said.
Chair of the National Tree Climbing Competition David James said the championships consisted of five events; the speed climb, footlock, work climb, throwline and aerial rescue.
“We have a kids dream of a job, we get paid to climb trees,” said Mr James. “It is a fantastic career, you get to work outside, in trees, dealing with nature.”
The winner will head to the World Championship event in San Antonio, Texas in March next year.
The national championships followed this year’s NZ Arborial Association conference held at the Rutherford Hotel in Nelson.
