Four Skiers Buried in Avalanche in New Zealand
21st July 2025
Last modified on July 24th, 2025
They were in a group of six people ski touring on Mt Ruapehu when they triggered the slide. All survived and the authorities say they are lucky to be alive.
Four people were partially buried in the avalanche that was 50m long and 50m wide with a depth of 40cm.
One person was buried with only their face and arm free, and another was completely buried with only their hand sticking out of the snow.
The completely buried person had an airway carved out of the snow within two minutes of the avalanche, and everyone was freed within ten minutes, the NZ Avalanche Advisory said.
No one was injured in the incident
“The party was extremely lucky that no one was hurt – or worse – and the incident is an important reminder for anyone heading into the alpine backcountry that avalanches can and do happen,” said the NZ Mountain Safety Council chief executive, Mike Daisley.
“It’s the start of the season, so now is the time to think about avalanche safety and ensure you have all the basics covered.
“If you’re heading into the backcountry, you need the skills, training, and the equipment, and you need to check the avalanche forecast every time.”
The avalanche in Mt Ruapehu backcountry was reported via a public observation on NZAA.
PlanetSKI: Number 1 for digital ski news
Your digital platform for ski news, resort information, travel, equipment rental, sport, money saving deals and everything connected with snowsports – web site, social media & more.
