St Leonards School principal Verity Harlick said the $4500 feature proved to be a "big hit'' with pupils, who braved the elements to play on the new climbing structure after it was unveiled.
The new 2.5m rock feature is the first stage in a long-term outdoor activity circuit plan, devised by the pupils' school council.
"It's part of a fitness trail that the children's school council and environmental group planned as part of their 'vision map','' Ms Harlick said.
Other fitness stations would be developed around the outside of field, she said.
"The children have been very patient. It was under a cover for weeks while the footholds were being attached, and they could not wait.''
The school had also installed an organic garden and "peaceful play area''.
Board of trustees chairwoman Dr Ruth Barnett said the school community had worked on the project for a year, and was indebted to parents Janine Knowles and Simon Heal for their efforts in fund-raising.
