Backcountry skiing and snowboarding is an exhilarating way to enjoy the beauty of the New Zealand winter. Before you head out into the hills though, you've got to be prepared. Check the snow conditions, the avalanche forecast, and the weather.
New Zealand used to have a large problem with people getting caught out in avalanches. Since the implementation of avalanche forecasting, increased availability of training in avalanche awareness, and technology aiding rescue, the situation has greatly improved. But this improvement hinges on people having the correct equipment and training, checking and understanding the forecast, and knowing the hazards and how to avoid them when venturing out into the backcountry.
Prepare for your trip
There are a few key hazards and issues that commonly present themselves in backcountry snowsports incidents and SAR callouts.
In the event of an avalanche, the difference between life and death of a buried victim can come down to mere minutes. You cannot afford to waste any time trying to figure out how to use your gear! You need to be well practiced and efficient with the functions of your gear and your search and rescue techniques.
Employ strategies for identifying and managing fatigue. Ensure this is considered as part of any pre-trip planning and pay this element the due respect it deserves during your trip. Allow time for adequate breaks to rest and take on food/water. Most importantly, ensure the culture surrounding your trip allows for topics such as fatigue management to be part of your conversations and communication.
You can find more about alpine and avalanche safety skills in our Learn section
pdf Snow Safety Code pdf – 71 KB
Your guide to outdoor New Zealand. The Walking Access Mapping System has all the information you need to find publicly accessible land. Search to find where you are or want to go. Use different layers to display roads, marginal strips, reserves, territorial boundaries and conservation land.
It is common for ski-tourers or split-boarders to access the backcountry via ski areas. These ski areas will have policies for using the ski area in this fashion, and it is important to follow these for everyone's safety. If you're planning on accessing the backcountry in this way, check out our Backcountry Access Policies page first.
This book is your essential guide to the best backcountry touring and ski mountaineering in New Zealand. Whether you’re new to the world of backcountry snowsports, an enthusiast looking for inspiration, or an international traveller sampling what New Zealand has to offer, this guide will help you plan your next adventure. Read it here >>
If you are ever short of ideas or places to go and ski the Ski Touring NZ website is a great site where people can go and enter trips they have done, complete with maps of where they went and photos of the terrain.
Continue your preparation with our online resources, there is still plenty to learn to ensure for a safe and enjoyable trip!