Adventure Magazine Issue 220

Above and below: Learning to interpret
snowpack is an important tool in your
avalanche awareness toolkit.
• In New Zealand especially, flexibility is key.
Have plans for a number of objectives ready
to go. Then when the dates draw near, you’re
able to choose the most appropriate trip for
the given weather and conditions. Locking
onto a single plan and stubbornly plunging
forward regardless of the circumstances is a
big red flag.
• Be aware of the avalanche danger scale
and the public danger forecast from the MSC
NZ Avalanche Advisory before accessing
the backcountry. This should be a given!
When interpreting the danger forecast,
make sure you consider the forecasted
avalanche character; this will dictate which
risk management strategies you should apply
when you do head into the field.
Terrain on Black Peak is for advanced skiers, with options for ski mountaineers to take it to the next level.
• Make a realistic assessment of the team’s skills, experience and
abilities. Ideally you’ll get to know the strengths and weaknesses of
each team member through a progression of trips or other activities.
Knowing what you each bring to the table increases confidence
and ultimately safety. It’s also useful for individuals to have a clear
understanding of their own goals and motivations, and how these fit in
with the others on the team. Both these and levels of risk acceptance
will be big factors in decision making during the planning and
execution of a trip, and good teamwork is never a bad thing.
• There is an inherent risk associated with any
backcountry travel. In the event of an emergency,
remember that weather and conditions in the mountains
might prevent attempts at immediate rescue. Have plans
in place and carry appropriate equipment to keep yourself
as comfortable as possible during an extended stay in the
elements, including the right emergency communication
tools. How much and what you carry will depend on the
level of commitment and remoteness of your journey.
• Once your trip is finished and you’re back at
home with a hot chocolate and epic photos, there
is yet another step. Take some time to reflect on
your trip, whether successful or not, and use this to
inform your ongoing improvement in trip planning,
movement, technical systems and all the other
factors that contribute to a long and enjoyable career
skiing in the backcountry. Then get onto planning
your next adventure!
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