Avalanche Warnings for NZ Skiers

16th August 2024

Three avalanches this week have led the authorities to issue warnings to back country skiers and snowboarders.

“These incidents really highlight that all slopes beyond ski field boundaries, no matter how close, should be regarded as backcountry terrain and treated accordingly,” said the NZ Mountain Safety Council chief executive, Mike Daisley, to the NZ Herald newspaper.

“Fortunately, in these cases, no one was injured, despite several close calls.”

There remain avalanche threats including persistent slabs, with most regions given a “moderate” or “considerable” avalanche danger rating.

The threat is at resorts and ski areas on the North and South Islands.

“Skiing within the ski field boundary means you’re within a controlled environment where ski patrols monitor and manage avalanche danger,” added Mike Daisley.

“In contrast, skiing in the backcountry is an uncontrolled, wild environment, where avalanche hazards are not actively managed.

“Those venturing beyond the patrolled ski area boundaries need to take responsibility for assessing the terrain, understanding snow conditions and making safe decisions.”

Skiing in New Zealand. Image © PlanetSKI.