Avalanche Footage a Reminder of Backcountry Dangers
Media Release
NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) says a video of an avalanche in Aoraki/Mt Cook, posted on the NZ Avalanche Advisory social channels, is a timely reminder for anyone heading into the alpine backcountry as a series of storms hit the country.
Filmed on Wednesday 3 September 2025 by glacier guide Kerry Bellringer, the avalanche occurred on the eastern side of Mt Haidinger. It was a naturally triggered event, caused by serac collapse or ice fall. No one was caught in the avalanche.
This type of avalanche is common in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park during winter and spring, and the video is a timely reminder that avalanche safety in the backcountry remains critical at this time of year– says MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley.
Recent storms have brought considerable snow to both the North and South islands and more snow is forecast through the weekend, increasing avalanche danger. The NZ Avalanche Advisory currently shows ‘considerable’ or ‘high’ avalanche danger in many regions, representing dangerous to very dangerous avalanche conditions.
“We remind anyone heading into the alpine backcountry, such as skiers, snowboarders and mountaineers, to wait 24-48 hours after a storm to allow the snowpack time to settle,” says Mike.
“As conditions remain highly changeable, it’s vital to check the NZ Avalanche Advisory and adjust your plans based on the avalanche forecast for your region. You also need to take the right gear, and have the necessary skills and experience before venturing into the alpine backcountry.”
MSC’s new 23-part avalanche safety video series, Avalanche Tips and Terms: From the forecast to the field, covers essential knowledge to help backcountry users safely navigate New Zealand’s dynamic and often challenging alpine terrain.
Find Out More About Avalanche Safety
- Learn avalanche safety basics | Watch MSC’s Avalanche Tips and Terms video series
- Take an avalanche course | Start with MSC’s online course and then get hands-on training
- Get the avalanche forecast | Check the NZ Avalanche Advisory before heading into the backcountry
PHOTO CREDIT | Kerry Bellringer | Mt Haidinger avalanche, Aoraki/Mt Cook