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ISSUE # 28<br />
WINTER 2023<br />
$12.90 INC GST<br />
prof iles<br />
opinions<br />
insights<br />
TRAVEL<br />
GEAR<br />
2023<br />
cutting edge since 1998
COVER PHOTO: Finn Bilous in action: “This image was taken in Laax,<br />
Switzerland during a spring session in their Halfpipe. My good friend and<br />
multi-talented skier/photographer Daniel Loosli hung himself over the<br />
coping of the halfpipe to get all up in my business, whilst I did this pole<br />
plant blunt flair. As a pro skier himself, I’ve always enjoyed shooting with<br />
Dani as he’s got such a depth of knowledge for tricks and can compose<br />
images that’ll highlight both the trick and the spot best.” (Finn)<br />
EDITOR: Steve Dickinson<br />
+64 (027) 577 5014 // steve@pacificmedia.co.nz<br />
MAGAZINE DESIGN: Lynne Dickinson<br />
+64 (021) 1381777 // design@pacificmedia.co.nz<br />
ADVERTISING MANAGER: Steve Dickinson<br />
+64 (027) 577 5014 // steve@pacificmedia.co.nz<br />
DISTRIBUTION: www.aredirect.co.nz<br />
PUBLISHERS: Pacific Media Ltd.<br />
OTHER PUBLICATION: NZ Adventure <strong>Magazine</strong> www.adventuremagazine.co.nz<br />
SUBSCRIPTIONS: Subscribe online at https://pacificmedia-shop.co.nz/<br />
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Contributions of articles and photos are welcome. All contributions should be sent directly to the editor at Steve@<br />
pacificmedia.co.nz . The editor reserve es the right to alter or edit contributed material to suit the format. All work<br />
submitted and accepted can be used for hardcopy, online, web and social media. This publication or any part herein<br />
may not be reproduced without the written permission of the editor or publisher. While the publishers have taken all<br />
reasonable precautions and made all reasonable efforts to ensure the accuracy of material in this publication, it is a<br />
condition of the purchase of this magazine that the publisher does not assume any responsibility or liability for loss<br />
or damage which may result from any inaccuracy or omission in this publication, or from the use of the information<br />
contained herein and the publishers make no warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to any of the material<br />
contained herein.<br />
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Love the one you’re with<br />
There is a giant pimple in the middle of<br />
an island in the South Pacific, it really<br />
shouldn’t be there. Is it a freak of nature,<br />
or is it a gift? Mt Ruapehu is 2,797 meters<br />
of volcanic rock, complete with lahars, a<br />
steaming crater lake (Te Wai ā-moe) and<br />
controversy as imposing as the mountain<br />
itself.<br />
Many of us grew up skiing those<br />
windblown icy slopes, yet, on reflection,<br />
we recall perfect uncrowded snow,<br />
sunshine and skiing till exhaustion. But<br />
this year, 2023, as we go to print, there<br />
is still a shroud of cloud hanging over the<br />
very existence of what we know as skiing<br />
on Whakapapa and Turoa.<br />
Sure, there are a range of groups who<br />
are looking to take over from RAL; from<br />
overseas investors, private buyers, and<br />
government buyouts, but these are all at<br />
this stage, wishful thinking, rumours and<br />
speculation. But the simple truth is there<br />
is a lack of clarification; will there be a ski<br />
season in 2023 in the North Island, or<br />
will this be the year the mountain closes,<br />
never to re-open? What happens to a<br />
community that has a strong foundation in<br />
skiing and snow sports? It would be like<br />
telling the community of Whangamata<br />
that they can no longer swim in the sea<br />
or Kaikoura residents not to watch the<br />
whales.<br />
The Central Plateau has a huge amount<br />
to offer apart from skiing, but there is a lot<br />
built around the resorts of Whakapapa<br />
and Turoa. Regardless of the issues<br />
that RAL (Ruapehu Alpine Lifts) faces,<br />
whether internal or external, there is no<br />
denying the impact of covid, tourism (lack<br />
of it), climate change, DoC and Iwi, and<br />
now the result is that mountain use is in<br />
a state of change, and not one that was<br />
really unexpected.<br />
The impact of the last three years of what<br />
seems like constant changes outside<br />
of our control, the concept of no more<br />
skiing on Ruapehu now seems like a<br />
possibility. It is not likely, but what it will<br />
look like is hard for anyone to say. Will<br />
they have limited terrain open, will it be<br />
astronomically expensive? 2023 saw the<br />
most expensive day pass ticket rate ever<br />
in <strong>Snow</strong>bowl, north of Flagstaff in Arizona,<br />
where a ski pass is $309usd, (that is,<br />
$503nzd), that is not for a season pass or<br />
even a multi-day ticket that is for a singleday<br />
pass!<br />
There is a message here, which is also the<br />
title of our Canadian feature, and that is to<br />
‘Love the one you’re with’. Enjoy every<br />
moment of what you have when you<br />
have it and do not waste a moment, for<br />
tomorrow it may be gone or, at best, be in<br />
jeopardy. For those of us who complained,<br />
and I was one, about the difficulty of car<br />
parking at Ruapehu, or the price of pies,<br />
or the 20-minute queue times, oh, how we<br />
now long for those snow beers in the sun,<br />
in the car park, after a good day skiing,<br />
looking up at those slopes in the afternoon<br />
light, knowing you can do it all again<br />
tomorrow. But maybe, just maybe, those<br />
days are gone, let us hope not!<br />
So, make the most out of this winter<br />
wherever you are, whatever your activity.<br />
Enjoy every second, and when the wind<br />
is a little strong, or the temperature a little<br />
too cold, the queue a little longer or the<br />
car park a little full, remember how quickly<br />
things can change and ‘love the one you<br />
are with’.<br />
Cheers, Steve Dickinson (Editor)<br />
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f inn<br />
bilous<br />
Interview with Finn Bilous - Images as stated<br />
Finn Bilous is not just a skier; he surfs, he mountain-bikes,<br />
runs marathons, a few years back now he came second in the<br />
Queenstown half marathon for his age group. At the age of 13 he<br />
won the inaugural Junior World Heli Challenge.<br />
Two-time Winter Olympian Finn Bilous this year has joined the<br />
prestigious 2023 Freeride World Tour roster as a season wildcard.<br />
Bilous, who has competed at the top of the free ski game for the last<br />
six years, is looking forward to transitioning into a different discipline<br />
this coming Northern Hemisphere winter.<br />
Finn explained, “Following on from competing in freeride contests<br />
in my younger years, I have prioritised Slopestyle and Big Air over<br />
the last two Winter Olympic cycles. I am grateful to have been given<br />
this opportunity to put more energy back into freeride. I am looking<br />
forward to staying true to myself and my skiing, taking my slopestyle<br />
and big air tricks to a backcountry setting.”<br />
Amongst the training, skiing, and travelling we caught up with<br />
him briefly and asked some of those question we all want to ask<br />
professional skiers.<br />
At what point did you decide that you wanted to be a<br />
professional skier – was it a decision or something you simply<br />
fell into? I remember idolizing pro skiers from such a young age,<br />
maybe around 6 or 7 years old. However, watching ski films is what<br />
really got me hooked on the sport and the associated lifestyle that<br />
all the pros were living.<br />
If you have to name three attributes that make a good<br />
professional free skier, they would be? Adaptable, motivated,<br />
and resourceful.<br />
What would a younger Finn tell his older self in terms of life as<br />
a professional skier? Stay true to what you believe in, work hard,<br />
and prioritize what’s most important to you.<br />
4// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
“i remember<br />
watching ski<br />
f ilms is what<br />
really got<br />
me hooked<br />
on the sport<br />
and the<br />
associated<br />
lifestyle<br />
that all the<br />
pros were<br />
living.”<br />
Finn at the Swatch Nines 2023 presented by Falken -<br />
Image by Theo Acworth
Best thing about being a professional free<br />
skier? Not being tied to a 9-5 schedule and<br />
getting to do what you love every day. The older<br />
I get, the more I realize how much of a luxury<br />
that is. We’re super lucky to have so much<br />
autonomy but with that comes responsibility to<br />
make sure you’re still getting things done.<br />
The worst? The perks definitely outweigh the<br />
negatives in my opinion. However, living on<br />
the road for 6-8 months of the year comes with<br />
its challenges not to mention the huge carbon<br />
footprint associated with all the travel. Also,<br />
the roller coaster of competitions can be quite<br />
testing on one's mental state but it’s also what<br />
makes it so rewarding when things do work out.<br />
Is there a point where the fun of skiing just<br />
becomes like every other job? I can’t say it<br />
has for me. Like everything in life, it has its ups<br />
and downs but skiing has always been such<br />
a consistent outlet for me to express myself<br />
creatively and to be productive.<br />
Do you miss tan lines? Haha, I don’t miss tan<br />
lines but I definitely miss surfing throughout the<br />
winters.<br />
Finn at the Swatch Nines 2023 presented by Falken -<br />
Image by Theo Acworth
The new trend of innovative ski competitions - Finn Bilous at the Redbull Playstreets 23 in Bad<br />
Gastein, Austria on February 9, 2023 // Alexander Papis / Red Bull Content Pool<br />
“there’s<br />
a global<br />
community of<br />
like-minded,<br />
easy-going<br />
people.”<br />
Is there comradery between free skiers or is it all<br />
competitions? There’s definitely lots of comradery<br />
between riders. People feed off each other’s riding<br />
which ultimately progresses the sport as a whole. It’s<br />
one of my favourite parts about this industry, there's a<br />
global community of like-minded, easy-going people<br />
that are always willing to help you out when needed.<br />
With the more out-there events like Playstreets<br />
23 in Bad Gastein, Austria, and the Nines – is that<br />
more challenging or more fun? Would you like<br />
to see more events like these? I really like being a<br />
part of these types of events and would be hyped to<br />
see more. I think there’s a real appetite throughout the<br />
industry for something new within the contest space.<br />
Celebrating at the Swatch Nines 2023 presented by Falken - Image by Klaus Polzer<br />
These independent events are all so different and you<br />
never really know what to expect on arrival. Especially<br />
compared to the FIS World Cup circuit which follows far<br />
more of a structure in how the events are run.<br />
What does 2023 hold for Finn Bilous? I’m currently<br />
on my way up to Sweden for Kimbo Sessions and<br />
to wrap up the 22/23 Northern Hemi Winter. Usually,<br />
I return back to NZ around this time of year (April/<br />
May) but instead, I’m going to switch things up and<br />
be based in California, USA for a few months before<br />
flying home. Once returning back to NZ, I’m looking<br />
forward to spending even more time in the backcountry<br />
with friends/family, working on new projects with my<br />
sponsors, and exploring some new zones I’ve wanted<br />
to ski in NZ for a while.<br />
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8// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ
Zoi in action in Alaska_Credit Natural Selection Tour - Image by Chad Chomlack<br />
season recap<br />
Words by Britt Hawes\<strong>Snow</strong> Sport NZ<br />
NZ_SKIER_POW_DREW_AD.indd 1<br />
P O W G L O V E S . C O M / @ P O W G L O V E S / V E R T E X G T X © G L O V E<br />
D R E W J O L O W I C Z P : D y l a n R o b i n s o n<br />
4/27/21 4:29 PM<br />
Kiwi snow sports athletes have continued their momentum from their<br />
phenomenal 2022 season, continuing to put New Zealand on the global<br />
snow sports map across multiple disciplines. Kiwis had considerable<br />
success at the top levels of the sport, while also producing incredible<br />
results at North American Cup and European Cup level, showing just<br />
how deep the talent runs in Kiwi snow sports. Check out some of the<br />
epic results below!<br />
<strong>Snow</strong>boarding<br />
Zoi Sadowski-Synnott continued her utter dominance of women's<br />
snowboarding, once again finishing on the podium at every event she<br />
dropped into this season.<br />
Zoi won the LAAX <strong>Snow</strong>board Slopestyle Open for the first time in her<br />
decorated career, a dream of hers since she first started competing.<br />
The following week Zoi successfully defended her Aspen X Games<br />
slopestyle gold medal, marking her fourth X Games slopestyle gold<br />
medal and her eighth X Games medal, a phenomenal achievement.<br />
After taking the win at both scored events (Revelstoke and Alaska) of the<br />
2023 Natural Selection Tour, Zoi was crowned the overall 2023 Natural<br />
Selection Tour Champion, as well as the winner of each individual stop.<br />
Zoi also claimed the snowboard slopestyle silver medal at the FIS Park<br />
& Pipe World Championships, silver at the FIS <strong>Snow</strong>board Big Air<br />
World Cup in Kreischberg and silver in Big Air at the Aspen X Games.<br />
The future of New Zealand snowboarding continues to look exceptionally<br />
bright, with junior athletes Cam Melville Ives, Txema Mazet-Brown,<br />
Lucia Georgalli and Ava Beer all securing podium finishes across<br />
European Cup events and World Rookie Tour finals in Slopestyle, Big<br />
Air and Halfpipe.<br />
Freeskiing<br />
18-year-old freeskier Ruby Star<br />
Andrews burst onto the World Cup<br />
Slopestyle scene this year, claiming the<br />
first World Cup podium of her career.<br />
Ruby finished in third place at the FIS<br />
Slopestyle World Cup held at Mammoth<br />
Mountain. She also achieved a career<br />
best result at the FIS Park and Pipe<br />
World Championships, finishing in 6th<br />
place in the Freeski Slopestyle.<br />
Luca Harrington had a breakthrough<br />
season, claiming career best World<br />
Cup and World Championships results.<br />
Luca finished in fourth place at the<br />
Ruby Star Andrews and Team in<br />
Mammoth Mountain - Image by<br />
<strong>Snow</strong> Sports NZ<br />
heavily stacked FIS Freeski Slopestyle World Cup in Silvaplana and in<br />
fifth place in Big Air at the FIS Park & Pipe World Championships held<br />
in Georgia.<br />
Luca's older brother Ben Harrington also achieved a career best World<br />
Champs finish, with a fifth place in the Freeski Halfpipe as well as<br />
finishing in fifth place at the invite only Dew Tour the week prior.<br />
In the Freeski Development space, Fin Melville Ives (16) and Gustav<br />
Legnavsky (17) both had career best Halfpipe World Cup finishes, with<br />
two sixth place finishes for Fin and a seventh place finish for Gustav.<br />
14-year-old Luke Harrold had a fantastic season at the North American<br />
Cup and European Cup level, claiming the win at both the Freeski<br />
Halfpipe European Cup Premium in LAAX and Aspen Open Freeski<br />
Halfpipe competitions.<br />
J U N E 2 023// 11
LICENSE TO CARVE<br />
Luke Harrold training in LAAX - Image by Elie Babin<br />
© Photo : Théo Ledru<br />
0°<br />
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Ben Harrington at World Champs - Image by FIS Freestyle / Chad<br />
Para Alpine <strong>Ski</strong> Racing<br />
Adam Hall had yet another successful season on the Para Alpine World Cup circuit, with his top<br />
result a third-place finish at the FIS Para Alpine Slalom World Cup held in St. Moritz.<br />
Adam also secured podium finishes at the Slalom European Cup Finals in Fageralm Forstau<br />
(2nd place) and the Slalom European Cup in Wildschoenau (3rd place).<br />
The Para Alpine Development team had a successful season, with podiums achieved across<br />
Slalom, Giant Slalom and Super G at Nationals and FIS level races.<br />
Alpine <strong>Ski</strong> Racing<br />
Alice Robinson proved she is back on form with a string of top 10 finishes at World Cup and<br />
World Championship events. Her top finish position was seventh, which she achieved twice in<br />
Giant Slalom and once in Super G.<br />
Kiwi speedskier Tawny Wagstaff, obliterated New Zealand's speed skiing world record, clocking<br />
a phenomenal 248.610kph at the World Championships held in France in March.<br />
Tawny in fact broke the NZ record twice over four days, initially breaking the twenty-year-old NZ<br />
record on the 20th of March with a speed of 233kph, then subsequently topping his own record<br />
with a speed of 248.610kph on the 22nd of March. Tawny is now the 11th fastest person in the<br />
world of all time.<br />
Finn Bilous at the Swatch Nines 2023 presented by<br />
Falken - Image by Theo Acworth<br />
Freeride<br />
Finn Bilous had an epic debut season on the<br />
Freeride World Tour, securing both a fourth<br />
and fifth finish at the Kicking Horse and Ordino<br />
Arcalís stops respectively.<br />
Despite all the Kiwis on Tour giving it everything<br />
they had, Finn was the only athlete to make it<br />
through the cut to the final two stops on the<br />
Tour this year.<br />
A huge congratulations to Blake Marshall and<br />
Ben Richards, who due to their fantastic results<br />
on the Freeride World Qualifier, have secured<br />
their spots on the 2024 Freeride World Tour.<br />
With Winter Games NZ delivering an extensive<br />
Park & Pipe, Alpine and Freeride programme<br />
during the 2023 New Zealand winter we look<br />
forward to watching the Kiwis in action on<br />
home snow!<br />
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12// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
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nico porteous<br />
Simply, Nico Porteous is a freeskier. He is New<br />
Zealand’s youngest Olympic Games medallist,<br />
having won a bronze medal at the 2018 Winter<br />
Olympics at the tender age of 16. He became New<br />
Zealand’s second Winter Olympic gold medalist<br />
and first male, with his win in the men’s halfpipe at<br />
the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.<br />
He was introduced to skiing by his parents and<br />
learned to ski in France when he was three. He<br />
has had a professional coach since he was six<br />
years old. By the time he was 14, he became the<br />
youngest person in the world to land the triple cork<br />
1440 (upside down three times and four full spins).<br />
He competed at the 2018 Winter Olympics, making<br />
him the second-youngest Winter Olympian in<br />
the nation’s history. In the men’s halfpipe, he won<br />
the bronze medal, becoming only the third New<br />
Zealander to win a medal at a Winter Olympics.<br />
At age 16 years 91 days, Porteous became New<br />
Zealand’s youngest Olympic Games medallist,<br />
breaking the previous record of 16 years and 353<br />
days set by Zoi Sadowski-Synnott earlier the same<br />
day, who had in turn broken the record of 17 years<br />
100 days<br />
In 2021, Porteous claimed his first X Games gold<br />
medal in the Superpipe event. In January 2022,<br />
Porteous won a gold medal in the freeski halfpipe<br />
event at the U.S. Grand Prix World Cup event in<br />
California, USA. During the 2022 X Games in<br />
Aspen, USA, Porteous defended his title by winning<br />
gold in superpipe on the final run of the competition.<br />
February 2022, Porteous won the gold medal in<br />
the men’s halfpipe event at the Beijing 2022 Winter<br />
Olympics. Then for good measure, to top it off in<br />
the 2023 New Year Honours, he was appointed<br />
a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for<br />
services to snow sports. This list of achievements<br />
by any standard is staggering and you get an<br />
ongoing feeling it is just the beginning. We caught<br />
up with Nico between the event and training and<br />
in his normal unassuming manner we had a chat!<br />
Since the Olympics – what’s changed, or is<br />
it just a comp like every other comp? To be<br />
honest, not much has really changed since the<br />
Olympics. There’s been a few sponsorship requests<br />
come through and a few events that I’ve attended<br />
but other than that I’ve tried to keep it pretty low<br />
key, obviously with the knee injury and rehab over<br />
the past year it’s made it quite easy to do so, I just<br />
knuckle down and go to the gym. So not much has<br />
changed, it’s pretty normal life still.<br />
Where is your gold medal? Does your mum<br />
have it on the fridge, do you wear it out when<br />
you go clubbing? My gold medal is actually just<br />
sitting in my wardrobe, it doesn’t really come out that<br />
often. It just sort of chills in its box, sometimes it will<br />
butmost of the time it’s just sitting there. I definitely<br />
don’t wear it when I go out to the pub that’s for sure.<br />
As athletes push the boundaries and do<br />
more and more, moves that were considered<br />
undoable a few years back, are the events going<br />
to get to a point of saturation, too demanding,<br />
too dangerous? Or will they continue to<br />
evolve? That’s a really good question… I think<br />
halfpipe will get to a certain point of saturation. I<br />
don’t think it will be in the level of tricks, I think how it<br />
will happen will be in repetitive nature of a halfpipe.<br />
At the moment there is not alot of creative stuff<br />
happening and lots of really big tricks that are hard<br />
for the viewer to understand. I think they’ll be some<br />
stuff that will happen in the next wee while that will<br />
hopefully change that staleness of halfpipe and<br />
could potentially bring new light to it. I know there’s<br />
some people, including myself, that are super keen<br />
to make that happen. We should be coming into a<br />
really exciting time of half pipe skiing.<br />
Imgae courtsey instagram #nicoporteous<br />
“We<br />
should<br />
be coming<br />
into a<br />
really<br />
exciting<br />
time of<br />
half pipe<br />
skiing.”<br />
14// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ J U N E 2 023// 15
“these creative<br />
events are exactly<br />
what free skiing needs.”<br />
Movement towards youths seems to be a<br />
new phenomenon – like with skate boarding,<br />
surfing, the new superstars coming through<br />
are younger and younger, do you think we will<br />
see that in free skiing? For sure. We’ll definitely<br />
see an influx of young phenomenon coming up.<br />
In our generation these days there’s one by the<br />
name of Walker Woodring, he’s a little 12-year-old<br />
kid, a pretty incredible skier, he’s definitely better as<br />
slopestyle than I am haha. I think we will see it being<br />
a more common occurrence, but I don’t think it will<br />
be as young as it is in surfing and skating. We’ve<br />
already seen the average competition age of come<br />
down from 23-24 and it’s now down to 18-21.<br />
There now seem to be also the development<br />
of the more ‘creative events’ like the Nines<br />
and Playstreets in Bad Gastein. What’s you<br />
feedback on those? Bad Gastein looked like a<br />
great spectator event? Are the events moving<br />
away from the athlete focus to the spectators?<br />
I think these creative events are exactly what free<br />
skiing needs. They’re the perfect event where a<br />
bunch of the world’s best skiers come and express<br />
themselves on a creative and really cool course<br />
that’s easy to access for spectators. Those event<br />
like Playstreets and 9s are such amazing events,<br />
but I think the really important ones these days<br />
are Jib League, which started this season. Its an<br />
event created by James Woods, Øystein Bråten<br />
and Ferdanand Dahl, it’s an alternative comp that’s<br />
contributing massively to the skiing community<br />
giving us an identity after slighgtly losing it over the<br />
past few years. It’s building back up the community<br />
and taking it to the next level. I think those sort of<br />
events are really really important.<br />
Some events are definitely moving away from<br />
athlete focus and just want to be viral and to have<br />
the biggest crowd they can. But in saying that<br />
there’s events like Jib league, bulldoze invitational<br />
and Slvsh Cup that give the opportunity for the<br />
skier to showcase themselves in and amongst the<br />
community and I think that’s really special and what<br />
we need as a community right now.<br />
What is next for Nico? Getting sick of back-toback<br />
winters or just getting started? Next for me<br />
– I’ve filmed a solo video part with a friend of mine,<br />
Gavin Rudy, this past season. It’ll be my first full<br />
length project. I also have a movie coming out that<br />
I filmed with my brother Miguel and a friend of ours<br />
Felix Klein, over in Japan. So, it’s been a busy year<br />
for me with video parts and movie premiers but it’s<br />
been really fun mixing it up a bit and experiencing<br />
some different sides to skiing. The plan for next<br />
year will be to get back in the halfpipe for a bit and<br />
start training and see how I’m going and where<br />
I’m at. Then take it from there, hopefully do a few<br />
competitions such as X-Games and a some World<br />
cups<br />
16// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ
“Let<br />
your<br />
skiing<br />
do the<br />
talking.”<br />
Without showing your hand what are you looking at<br />
working on for 2023 -2024? Tricky question – without<br />
showing my hand, what it comes down to and what I’m<br />
planning for the next year is to try and be more creative in<br />
the half pipe and do some things that maybe people don’t<br />
expect. I’m pretty excited to get back into Halfpipe and see<br />
what I can come up with.<br />
Any big events that you are focused on and how do<br />
you go about that? The big events I’m focused on in the<br />
future is the X Games this next year. With the knee injury and<br />
taking the year off competing to film I’d like to come back into<br />
the half pipe and really showcase some new skiing as well<br />
as a different type of skiing so X-Games is definitely the No1<br />
focus for me at the moment, its’ all about just working hard<br />
and enjoying yourself really.<br />
You have been doing this for a while now – what advise<br />
would you give your younger self now? I’m constantly<br />
still trying to search for advice for myself, but the biggest<br />
advice I would give to myself at 17, 18, 19 would be just<br />
to focus on skiing. Don’t worry about all the other stuff and<br />
don’t let that drag you down, or that pressure get in the way<br />
of things. Let your skiing do the talking.<br />
Earning your turns;<br />
about to ski off<br />
Mt Rolleston, Arthur’s<br />
Pass National Park,<br />
New Zealand.<br />
Photo by Tom Hoyle.<br />
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18// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ
Images supplied<br />
life is’nt<br />
fair, but<br />
just how<br />
unfair is it?<br />
Erika Vikander voices<br />
her concerns over<br />
women's place in<br />
snow sports<br />
Erika Vikander is a professional freeride<br />
snowboarder who has been competing on the<br />
FREERIDE WORLD TOUR for the last 6 seasons.<br />
She recently experienced some ‘poor’ treatment<br />
and discrimination on the FWT, because, as<br />
she sees it ‘for simply being a woman’. She has<br />
chosen to share her story in the hope of inspiring<br />
systemic change within the organization. She<br />
is well aware that by openly criticising the major<br />
organisation, she puts the future of her own career<br />
at risk. However, as she states ‘I hope that this<br />
will help pave the way for other women to have<br />
a fair chance at being successful in the world of<br />
professional athletics’. This is her story:<br />
When I was a little girl, I always dreamt of doing something<br />
impactful with my life. I had hoped it would be through my talent<br />
as a snowboarder and not by having to fight for the right for<br />
women to be seen as equals in this day and age. It’s clear now<br />
that this will be the most important thing I do thus far in my life,<br />
not only for me, but for all women, and the future generations<br />
of this sport.<br />
I have spent the last 6 years of my life competing on the<br />
Freeride World Tour earning 19 medals for the USA and being<br />
one of the longest consecutively re-qualifed North American<br />
snowboarders the tour has ever had. Only to feel less than.<br />
Less than valued, less than appreciated, less than respected,<br />
less than heard, less than seen, less than my male counterparts<br />
whom I shouldn’t be compared to or competing against. I am<br />
constantly reminded that I am a female, a snowboarder, and<br />
a North American, which at one point in my life, I viewed as<br />
assets instead of faults. To be constantly reminded from a<br />
patriarchal system that you are not worthy really wears down<br />
the soul and I’ve finally reached my breaking point.<br />
As many of you know the FWT is an elite<br />
competition series that features the best<br />
freeriders in the world. It is incredibly hard to<br />
earn a spot on the tour, nonetheless maintain<br />
it (Unless you’re handed a wildcard, which<br />
we will get to later.) Especially for those of us<br />
who aren’t from Europe. The bias starts at<br />
the top and trickles all the way down through<br />
the qualifying events and even into the junior<br />
series. I have watched many talented riders<br />
come and go each season because there is a<br />
harsh cut to make it to finals and prequalify for<br />
the tour the following season.<br />
The snowboard women are the smallest<br />
category with only 6 total athletes from both<br />
regions. That number gets shrunk by 50%<br />
after the 3rd stop so there are only 3 women<br />
in the final 2 events. That number used to be<br />
shrunk to 4 until 2 seasons ago when they<br />
changed the rules and created 2 final events<br />
instead of 1. We are told that number is so<br />
small because “there are just not enough<br />
good female snowboarders out there.” Which<br />
is simply untrue. Every year there are more<br />
women trying to get into these events yet<br />
there continues to be less and less spots for<br />
them.<br />
Throughout all of the series we have the least<br />
spots available for newcomers to showcase<br />
their skills and try to make it onto the Freeride<br />
World Tour. I know personally there are dozens<br />
of women vying to get into the Freeride World<br />
Qualifying events where they also are given<br />
the smallest number of chances to qualify and<br />
then the cut for finals sometimes only leaves<br />
2-6 women in the field. This also happens on<br />
the Freeride World Junior events where at a<br />
s recent competition they cut a field of 4 to 2<br />
in finals. There are 3 spots on a podium, so<br />
why would you cut the field so small you can’t<br />
even have a competitor in each spot? On top<br />
of that, unlike every other category that takes<br />
the top 2-3 riders from each of the 2 regions,<br />
we only take the top 1. That only gives 2<br />
new women a chance to make the tour each<br />
season.<br />
Now imagine that you are on the qualifying<br />
series, you have a great season, make it<br />
to the “challenger finals” only to see that 3<br />
women from the Freeride World Tour can<br />
automatically come straight into the finals and<br />
don’t have to go through an entire season of<br />
qualifying like you did. It’s very discouraging,<br />
it hurts the progression of the sport and takes<br />
away spots from women who have earned<br />
their spots there by participating in the event<br />
series all season and help build the series<br />
by paying into the entry fees and events<br />
themselves.<br />
20// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ J U N E 2 023// 21
22// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
“We have<br />
to ride<br />
the same<br />
mountain,<br />
in the same<br />
conditions,<br />
spend<br />
the same<br />
amount<br />
of time,<br />
energy, and<br />
money to<br />
travel and<br />
compete<br />
on these<br />
venues.”<br />
This could be easily solved by increasing the<br />
number of women throughout all of the feeder<br />
events and especially on the FWT to at least<br />
the same amount as the ski women (10) or<br />
snowboard men(9). The fact that there are<br />
23 ski men on the FWT shows how much<br />
more priority that category has if it wasn’t clear<br />
by the amount of promotion they get on the<br />
tours social channels, sharing of content, and<br />
preferential drop times to ensure the most<br />
people tune into the livestream when the ski<br />
men drop.<br />
We have to ride the same mountain, in the<br />
same conditions, spend the same amount<br />
of time, energy, and money to travel and<br />
compete on these venues. Most of the time<br />
these venues are downright unsafe and far<br />
below the standard of what a professional<br />
Freeride contest should be held on. Due to<br />
multi year contracts that they sign with these<br />
resorts we are stuck continually going back<br />
to places that have less and less snow every<br />
year. Yet we keep going back and pushing our<br />
luck. We are fortunate there have been no<br />
fatalities yet.<br />
I’ve personally watched a lot of friends get hurt<br />
by hitting rocks that didn’t used to be showing in<br />
February. Or simply getting unlucky by getting<br />
hung up on a takeoff for a cliff or hitting variable<br />
punchy snow on a landing that they were in<br />
the perfect position to land. The problem is that<br />
the livestream seems to be more important<br />
than our safety at this point. A perfect example<br />
would be at the first event in Spain this season<br />
after a forerunner set off a sizeable avalanche<br />
on the face and exposed more rocks than<br />
before, the snowboard women category (who<br />
8 of 10 times has to go first) were pushed into<br />
helicopters before having a full debrief of the<br />
situation where we all had major concerns<br />
regarding our safety. Instead of listening to our<br />
concerns we were told we had to get in the<br />
helicopters “right now” so they could start the<br />
livestream on time. When we arrived at the<br />
top none of us were checked for safety gear<br />
or had our transceivers checked to be on and<br />
working properly. That is unacceptable and<br />
not our job when we are trying to shake off<br />
the nerves after what we just witnessed and<br />
weren’t given time to digest.<br />
As a member of the Pro Freeriders Board,<br />
which consists of 2 members (one from<br />
each region) in each category, I am a voice<br />
for my category and any other athlete who<br />
has concerns. Unfortunately my European<br />
counterpart pulled out this year due to injury so<br />
I was left to stand up for my category against<br />
the men who run this, alone. When voicing<br />
my concerns that were shared by my male<br />
counterparts on the board I was silenced, told<br />
this isn’t about me, or my category and to not<br />
make it personal.<br />
However, the only experience that I have is my<br />
own, and when I’m asked for an opinion, who<br />
else’s view am I supposed to give? I know that<br />
all of the snowboard women past and current<br />
share the same feeling as I do towards this<br />
organization. The lack of effort put in towards<br />
helping us feel valued, expanding our careers<br />
by creating new brand partnerships, and<br />
helping us leverage our time on the FWT<br />
into more lucrative sponsorships and filming<br />
opportunities is almost nonexistent. Since<br />
there is so little reward for the women on this<br />
tour and most people use this as a stepping<br />
stone to hopefully move to the next parts of<br />
their career, most are afraid to stand up to this<br />
organization, because they still need to get<br />
something out of their time and efforts there.<br />
It took until 2020 for women to finally receive<br />
equal pay after the sponsors of the Freeride<br />
World Tour firmly stated that was a requirement<br />
for their support to continue. Not because it’s
Warm,<br />
whatever<br />
the<br />
weather.<br />
Bravada 2 Thermo Demi Waterproof<br />
the right thing to do or that they believed in it,<br />
which was directly related to us by the CEO<br />
of the FWT. What kind of message does that<br />
send to the female athletes, that we are not<br />
worthy in their eyes? While having equal<br />
pay is much appreciated, it shouldn’t have<br />
even been an argument in the first place.<br />
The first female judge was only brought on<br />
last season (2022), and until then all of the<br />
female athletes had been judged by a panel<br />
of 4-5 men. Would this ever be accepted<br />
if the roles were reversed and we had 4-5<br />
women judging all men? NO.<br />
The fact that there is a gender equity board<br />
that was created a couple of years ago,<br />
shows again that there is some serious bias<br />
happening and that this is their attempt to<br />
make it “seem” like they are doing something<br />
to change it. However, after speaking with<br />
women who work for the tour, athletes, and<br />
spectators its clear we all feel the same<br />
patriarchal system holding us down while<br />
telling us that we should be happy to be<br />
there. Why should we be happy with the<br />
scraps that are thrown our way while the<br />
male athletes on this tour don’t have to deal<br />
with the bias that is directed at us every day?<br />
Then, layer in on top of that being from North<br />
America. North American athletes (male and<br />
female) come in at a huge disadvantage.<br />
Not only how the qualifying tour is set up,<br />
but once you arrive at the FWT the blatant<br />
favoritism towards the European riders is<br />
truly a slap in your face. It’s tough for any<br />
North American to come from the Freeride<br />
World Qualifying tour (where they never do<br />
visual inspection) and then debut on the<br />
FWT, where you only do visual inspection,<br />
putting you at a serious disadvantage<br />
compared to the riders who come from the<br />
European qualifying tour. In addition, the<br />
amount of wildcards that are handed to<br />
European riders over North American riders<br />
is staggering, and wildly unfair.<br />
I personally got a firsthand taste of this<br />
recently. After earning my spot on this tour<br />
for the last 6 seasons I had planned to retire<br />
from the FWT after this season to pursue<br />
film projects with my sponsors and other<br />
things. But I didn’t want to get removed from<br />
the FWT by default because they changed<br />
the date of the first stop which was supposed<br />
to be in Kicking Horse, BC January 13-18th.<br />
We received the official invite for the FWT 23<br />
and the dates for the 5 contests on July 14,<br />
2022. The original dates left about a month<br />
gap between stop 3 which took place before<br />
the official weather window began and the<br />
final stops which start the second week of<br />
March. During that time myself and many<br />
other athletes schedule things with our<br />
sponsors such as film trips, photoshoots,<br />
or in my case guiding tours in Japan with<br />
people who have committed to spending<br />
thousands of dollars to go snowboarding<br />
with you months in advance. When I found<br />
out that they were going to reschedule the<br />
Kicking Horse contest due to lack of snow<br />
during the exact time I was meant to be in<br />
Japan, it left me and many others in a very<br />
tough situation.<br />
Since I am an adult who follows through with<br />
their commitments I told the FWT as soon<br />
as they cancelled that contest less than a<br />
month out on 12/21/22 that I wouldn’t be<br />
able to attend that stop therefore giving me<br />
an unfair chance to defend my win there last<br />
year and also to qualify for finals. I asked<br />
to be considered for a wildcard since I had<br />
proven myself the previous 5 seasons<br />
always making it to finals and finishing in<br />
the top 3 overall the last 3 seasons. I was<br />
told that they “never give wildcards for finals”<br />
and that I would not receive one. That really<br />
hurt, as I have seen them hand out multiple<br />
wildcards for final events to European riders,<br />
just not North Americans. This year in fact,<br />
they have already promised wildcards to<br />
multiple European riders, and last year they<br />
gave wildcards to 2 Europeans who were<br />
not freeride competitors.<br />
It’s one thing when the same rules apply to<br />
everyone. But they clearly don’t and that is<br />
what is so upsetting. This blatant disregard<br />
for respecting all athletes the same whether<br />
they are male, female, ski, snowboard, North<br />
American, or European is baffling and to be<br />
continually told that it is “one way” when it<br />
clearly is not is extremely discouraging and<br />
downright infuriating. We are adults who<br />
are putting our bodies and sometimes lives<br />
on the line for entertainment and their profit<br />
and to be treated fairly should be the bare<br />
minimum.<br />
I am tired of settling for the bare minimum<br />
and it bothers me that future generations<br />
of young women who want to pursue this<br />
career will still have to fight these battles that<br />
my predecessors have fought, and that I am<br />
fighting right now. It’s time to do better not<br />
because you are threatened, but because<br />
it’s the right thing to do.<br />
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24// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ
CANADA | USA | JAPAN | CHILE | AUSTRIA | FRANCE | ITALY | SWITZERLAND<br />
Don’t go it alone<br />
Fifty-two steps. That’s all it took from the bottom<br />
of a powder-perfect run to securing my fire-side<br />
mulled wine at my ski-in, ski-out accommodation.<br />
And that’s all thanks to my travel agent!<br />
Inspiration and choices are everywhere you look<br />
when it comes to ski holidays. But navigating<br />
through the options takes time and patience. Don’t<br />
get us wrong, we know it’s always nice to have<br />
choices. But with so much choice, and a wish list<br />
(as big as California and Utah’s record-breaking<br />
snowfall this season!), planning the ideal winter<br />
experience and getting it right can be a mammoth<br />
task.<br />
Typically, the northern hemisphere’s ski<br />
destinations average 4-15 metres of snow each<br />
year (depending on the location). The 2022/23<br />
season was a season that kept on giving. California<br />
and Utah were big players receiving recordbreaking<br />
snowfalls, but they weren’t the only ones<br />
to get plenty of snow. Canada and Japan had more<br />
than their fair share too. And while a ski holiday is<br />
about the snow, there is so much more to a winter<br />
holiday experience.<br />
So, time to think strategically and make life easy<br />
for yourself. Accredited travel agencies, provide<br />
access to sharper pricing (think early bird deals),<br />
personal recommendations, inside knowledge and<br />
24/7 assistance, plus it’s just one point of contact.<br />
With international travel back on the agenda so is<br />
your ski holiday. Travel for the snow, but also for the<br />
unique differences each destination offers: Canada<br />
for its charm, the USA for big mountain action,<br />
Japan for the culture or Europe for history.<br />
26// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
5 REASONS: THE SKI TRAVEL<br />
CONSULTANTS AT TRAVEL&CO.<br />
SHARE YOUR PASSION FOR SNOW.<br />
They’ve Been There: Travel’s back and<br />
so are we. When the borders opened, we<br />
grabbed our skis and boards to meet up<br />
with our suppliers at several international<br />
ski resorts. Our ski consultants and team<br />
have been back to several ski resorts in<br />
Canada, the USA, and Japan. Throughout<br />
the years, the team have personally visited<br />
most of the resorts and destinations we<br />
sell and can offer you firsthand, unbiased<br />
advice and recommendations.<br />
24/7 Assistance: When the unexpected<br />
happens or for last-minute changes,<br />
booking through a travel agent means you<br />
have direct access to support. You won’t<br />
have to liaise with multiple suppliers – just<br />
one. Of course, we always hope you won’t<br />
have to use it, but it is reassuring to know<br />
it’s there and if you need some help, we’ll<br />
be there to put things right!<br />
Production Knowledge: We are big on<br />
building relationships. Not only with you<br />
as our customer, but with our ski resort<br />
partners. Over the years, we have built<br />
trusted relationships with those who run<br />
them, and this just continues to strengthen.<br />
Because of this we can provide the<br />
latest information and insider tips on the<br />
destinations we sell.<br />
Rob & Sheree (Canada)<br />
Image compliments of Mammoth Mountain<br />
Savings: On your time, your budget, and<br />
your sanity. We take the travel admin off your<br />
hands – saving you time. We have access<br />
to special promotions and discounts that are<br />
given exclusively to us, which are not online<br />
– making the most out of your budget. And<br />
because we have also spent a lot of time<br />
orgnaising ski holidays, we take the stress out<br />
of this complex process.<br />
It’s all about you: You are our customer, and<br />
we work for you. This means we’ll find you the<br />
best value deals, so you’ll choose us again.<br />
We value you. As our client, we know you<br />
value great service and even greater deals.<br />
It’s all about you and what you want!<br />
Call us to book your ski holiday<br />
0800 555 035 travelandco.nz
The Northern Lights, the one sight we managed to miss<br />
love the one<br />
You’re with Words by Lynne Dickinson<br />
When Stephen Stills wrote his homage to free<br />
love, “Love the one you’re with”, many things<br />
we take for granted today didn’t exist. The<br />
world wide web would not be known for another<br />
20 years, facebook 30 years and instagram<br />
almost 40 years. With the development<br />
of the internet came an incredible base of<br />
knowledge and a connectability never before<br />
experienced. However, it also brought high<br />
levels of dissatisfaction. Viewing the world<br />
online it appeared like everyone else was<br />
having more fun somewhere else, and in 2013<br />
FoMO (fear of missing out) was introduced into<br />
the Oxford dictionary to describe the pervasive<br />
apprehension that others might be having more<br />
rewarding experiences than you.<br />
The flight from Vancouver to Kelowna - the reason Canada is such a great ski destination is obvious<br />
As adventurers, FoMO can really spoil your<br />
experience. Instead of enjoying where we are<br />
at that moment, we are often distracted by<br />
wondering if somewhere else is better: Is the<br />
snow better on the next run? The lines shorter?<br />
The surf better at the next break? Are there less<br />
people on the other mountain bike trail? etc etc.<br />
We forget to live in the moment. We have to<br />
take a leaf from Stephen Still’s book, not about<br />
free love, but about loving the one you’re with.<br />
So we flew to Canada with Fiji Airways and<br />
headed out on our ski road trip from Kelowna,<br />
BC to Anchorage, Alaska stopping at 5 ski<br />
resorts along the way, we were determined to<br />
live in the moment, to be present and to “love<br />
the one you’re with”.<br />
Sunshine Village, Banff - Image by Reuben Krabbe<br />
J U N E 2 023// 29
By the numbers...<br />
centimetres of snow that<br />
750The falls at the resort annually.<br />
“It’s the <strong>Snow</strong>” is Big White’s motto for a reason! Every<br />
year, the resort sees over 7.5 metres of beautiful, dry fluffy<br />
snow – known to the locals as “Okanagan Champagne<br />
Powder.” Due to the climate in the Okanagan, the snow<br />
that layers Big White is dry, light and oh so good. It’s<br />
also what’s responsible for Big White’s world-famous<br />
snow ghosts, the snow covered trees that dot the alpine<br />
and provide the perfect photo backdrop to make all your<br />
friends back home jealous.<br />
0The amount of snow that Big White<br />
makes each season.<br />
That’s right! Big White <strong>Ski</strong> Resort relies solely on Mother<br />
Nature to coat its slopes with the most sublime, fluffy<br />
powder. Occasionally, the resort will pull out the snow<br />
maker but only for building terrain park features in time<br />
for events in early season.<br />
16<br />
The number of lifts, including<br />
gondolas and magic carpets.<br />
Big White is home to Canada’s second largest lifting<br />
system, meaning you can spend less time in line and<br />
more time on the slopes. Plus, there’s a green run from<br />
every lift, meaning the entire family, regardless of ability,<br />
can explore the mountain together.<br />
7,355<br />
The acreage of the<br />
entire resort.<br />
That’s larger than Australia’s 5 largest ski resorts<br />
combined! Within that 7,355 acres is 2,765 acres of<br />
patrolled terrain, including 119 named runs of varying<br />
difficulty – 18% beginners, 54% intermediate, 22% expert<br />
and 6% extreme.<br />
length, in kilometres, of Big<br />
7.2The White’s longest run.<br />
Ready to make those ski legs shake? Around the World is<br />
the longest run at Big White… but how do you get there?<br />
Take the Alpine T-Bar to the top of the alpine, jump onto<br />
Whitefoot Trail, to Powder Bowl, to Blue Sapphire, to Ogo<br />
Slow and you’ll arrive at the base of Gem Lake!<br />
acreage of night skiing terrain.<br />
38The<br />
Big White is home to Western Canada’s largest night<br />
skiing area – with three lifts in operation, including the<br />
TELUS Park terrain park chairlift.<br />
Big White <strong>Snow</strong> Ghosts - Image by Andrew Jay<br />
Village’s height above<br />
1,755The sea level in metres.<br />
The average elevation of New Zealand is 388 meters<br />
above sea level – meaning Big White is nearly 5 times<br />
higher! And, you can still eat sushi, go for a skate or a<br />
tube or a dog sled, all while your heads are literally in the<br />
clouds.<br />
average daily temperature in<br />
-5The Celsius.<br />
Yes, you can enjoy all that snow without freezing your<br />
nose off! Of course, there are days when the temperature<br />
is quite a bit colder, so be sure to pack lots of layers just in<br />
case that -5C has an extra digit added to it! If you’re lucky,<br />
you may be treated to an inversion when you visit. This<br />
is when a layer of cold air becomes tucked under a layer<br />
of warm air, resulting in breathtaking cloud formations –<br />
normally visible from higher up on the mountain. Under<br />
normal circumstances, air temperature decreases as<br />
elevation increases – but inversions are a beautiful<br />
inconsistency.<br />
big white<br />
The first “one we were with” was Big White <strong>Ski</strong> Resort and we couldn’t have asked for a<br />
better reintroduction to skiing in Canada. It is a picturesque place (as are all the Canadian<br />
<strong>Ski</strong> fields) and it was just made all the more perfect by the snow falling steadily as we<br />
arrived early in the evening.<br />
The following day, due to an arctic blast blowing through central BC, we were greeted with a<br />
very cold -18 degrees. The upside of the arctic blast was a dumping of fresh snow and clear<br />
blue skies. Big White and the resort area covers a huge 7,355 acres. It is big, so with only<br />
two days to spare we did our best effort to cover as much as we could. <strong>Snow</strong> hosts were<br />
available to give you complimentary Mountain tours, but we were lucky enough to have our<br />
nephew working there so he took a couple of days off to show us around.<br />
With such a large terrain, the scenery and snow conditions changed depending on where<br />
we were skiing, from wide open runs to tree clad glades and high alpine slopes covered in<br />
alien-like mini snow ghosts. We originally thought that the trees had been stunted due to<br />
the high altitude but later discovered it was just the tops sticking out from under the huge<br />
depths of snow.<br />
Despite the fact that it was the weekend and the sun was shining we<br />
felt like we had the mountain to ourselves. Big White, as the name<br />
suggests, is a big mountain and has a lot to offer, not just for the<br />
hardcore skier or snowboarder but for families and beginners. The<br />
mountain seems like a maze of runs and connecting paths but they<br />
have been cleverly devised so that the beginner can take a green run,<br />
intermediate a blue and the more extreme a black and in most cases<br />
all meet up back at the same spot.<br />
Big White <strong>Ski</strong> Resort prides itself on being a family friendly village, but<br />
that doesn’t mean that’s their only focus. The restaurants and bars<br />
were alive with people of all ages and stages of life who regularly return<br />
to Big White year after year. There were plenty of activities outside of<br />
skiing; tubing, dogsledding etc, but with only a few days to spare we<br />
spent the weekend exploring the expanse of the mountain.<br />
HIGHLIGHTS FROM BIG WHITE SKI RESORT<br />
• The pasta dish at The Woods Restaurant. To die for…<br />
• Arancini Balls from The Globe Tapas Bar<br />
• The snow ghosts - Big White <strong>Ski</strong> Resort is home to the snow<br />
ghosts and snow laden trees. Incredible.<br />
• Our accommodation at White Crystal Inn, right in the heart of the<br />
town and super close to everything. Can thoroughly recommend.<br />
• Favourite run: Born To Run - a picturesque blue run that<br />
meandered through the trees and also the name of one of my<br />
all-time favourite songs.<br />
• Other activities: Dog sledding, snow shoeing, fat biking, tubing,<br />
ice skating, cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, hockey, night skiing.<br />
• Thanks to Andrew and the team at Big White <strong>Ski</strong> Resort for<br />
allowing us to experience your mountain.<br />
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Silver Star Resort - Image by Blake Jorgenson;<br />
Just a few hours away by shuttle our next stop was SilverStar<br />
Mountain Resort. Walking through SilverStar village feels like<br />
you are on the set of an old western movie. Modelled from the<br />
time when the mountain was home to the old silver mines, they<br />
have managed to keep the mountain feeling really authentic<br />
and the village is charming.<br />
The first morning we headed out with one of the mountain<br />
hosts, Roy, something I would thoroughly recommend anyone<br />
to do who is new to the mountain. The hosts meet each<br />
morning at the village centre and take people out to explore the<br />
mountain (all free of charge). It was a great way to reacquaint<br />
ourselves with what SilverStar had to offer and allowed us to<br />
get our bearings and learn more about where we were.<br />
The frontside of the mountain offers something for everyone,<br />
with all runs leading back eventually to the main village.<br />
However, what I’d remembered most about SilverStar was<br />
the backside, sometimes referred to as “the dark side” due<br />
to its deep powder and numerous black and double black<br />
runs. When we had visited SilverStar many years ago it had<br />
been opening day at Putman Creek (the backside) and we<br />
had waited at the arches that lead to that side with the excited<br />
crew of skiers and boarders all itching to get a taste of the<br />
untouched runs.<br />
SilverStar<br />
By the<br />
numbers...<br />
700<br />
The annual snowfall in cm.<br />
3,282<br />
Acres of skiable terrain<br />
132<br />
The number of named runs<br />
15% beginners | 40% intermediate |<br />
35% expert | 10% extreme<br />
12<br />
The number of lifts<br />
Sometimes the snowghosts are your only companion - Image by SilverStar Mountain Resort<br />
So after a quick tour of the frontside of the mountain, Roy<br />
took us back to Putnam Creek. <strong>Snow</strong> had been gently falling<br />
most of the night and had dusted the mountain with a few<br />
centimeters of fresh snow. Nothing by Canadian standards,<br />
but enough to keep these two Kiwis’ happy.<br />
By day two we were skiing in 6cm of fresh snow which meant<br />
we could pretty much ski anywhere. One of the things I loved<br />
about SilverStar were the woods and glades. With no trees on<br />
our mountains back home, they create a unique experience<br />
and once amongst the trees you feel like you are really<br />
exploring. If you are a tree lover, head to either Deer Park or<br />
Silver Woods Express Chair, you can pretty much take any<br />
line and you’ll find yourself at the bottom of a chair.<br />
8The length, in kilometres,<br />
of longest run<br />
1,609<br />
The height of the village<br />
above sea level in metres<br />
760<br />
The vertical drop in metres<br />
If you need a break from skiing<br />
there’s plenty else to keep you<br />
occupied in the outdoors including<br />
ice skating, tubing, Nordic skiing<br />
and snowshoeing. You can hire<br />
snowshoes in the village and<br />
simply walk the numerous trails,<br />
however we were fortunate enough<br />
to be taken out by a couple of local<br />
volunteers, Lily and Kim, who turned<br />
what we thought would be a bit of a<br />
boring walk through the woods into a<br />
fun and challenging experience.<br />
HIGHLIGHTS FROM SILVERSTAR<br />
• The village itself is unique and compact with<br />
a great range of restaurants, bars and shops.<br />
• Any baking from Bugaloos, can thoroughly<br />
recommend the cinnamon buns!<br />
• Long Johns Pub has a really cool vibe,<br />
cute and unique with great pub food. Can<br />
thoroughly recommend the Butchers Block<br />
Beef Salad!<br />
• The newest restaurant in SilverStar is<br />
D’Argento, where we experienced their home<br />
made gnocchi and beet salad, delicious.<br />
• Our accomodation right in the village at<br />
<strong>Snow</strong>bird. We had an apartment with views<br />
out to the gondola from our private spa pool<br />
and easy access to the restaurants and bars<br />
in the village, exceptional.<br />
• Thanks to Chantelle and the team at<br />
SilverStar for such a wonderful experience.<br />
• Other Activities: Ice skating, tubing, fat<br />
biking, cross-country skiing, snow shoeing,<br />
snowmobiling, hockey games, Paradise<br />
Camp dinner tours, night skiing.<br />
• Favourite Run: There were a lot to choose<br />
from but Deer Park down to Lower Deer Park<br />
had to be the winner, a black run through<br />
perfectly spaced trees.<br />
32// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ J U N E 2 023// 33
Sunpeaks<br />
The main access to Sun Peaks is via the airport at<br />
Kamloops but we were roadtripping from Kelowna and<br />
were now free to drive ourselves east towards Calgary<br />
and anywhere else we chose in between. There are<br />
copious ski fields to choose from along the snowcovered<br />
road, and Sun Peaks was one to remember!<br />
Sun Peaks is the second largest ski area behind<br />
Whistler, with a sprawling 4,270 skiable acres (that is<br />
1728 hectares). With nine major hotels and over twenty<br />
restaurants, it still manages to retain a feeling of a quaint<br />
mountain village. Sun Peaks has a real family-friendly<br />
intimate feel about it.<br />
We had spent two weeks in Sun Peaks just before the<br />
world was shut down from the global pandemic and we<br />
experienced two weeks of excellent skiing and loads of<br />
sunshine.<br />
The resort is made up of three mountain peaks.<br />
Sundance offers more mellow-groomed runs for<br />
beginners and intermediate skiers whereas Todd<br />
Mountain has more advanced terrain with open bowls,<br />
gladed runs and long groomers. Mt Morrisey faces<br />
north (the cold side in the northern hemisphere) so this<br />
offers great skiing during spring as the snow holds well<br />
during the warmer months.<br />
What is memorable about Sun Peaks is the longgroomed<br />
runs and the fact that no matter where you<br />
are on the mountain, there was always a green, blue or<br />
black line down. There is a green run called “5 mile” (5<br />
miles) that is so perfectly groomed you could ski it with<br />
your eyes closed. As wide as the length of a football<br />
field, it seems to go on forever. Sun Peaks caters for<br />
everyone, from advanced to beginners and the way<br />
the mountain has been laid out with consideration for<br />
all levels of ability, those with differing capability can ski<br />
together all day.<br />
By the<br />
numbers...<br />
600<br />
The annual snowfall in cm.<br />
4,270<br />
Acres of skiable terrain<br />
138<br />
The number of named runs<br />
10% beginners | 58% intermediate |<br />
32% expert / extreme<br />
13<br />
The number of lifts<br />
8The length, in kilometres,<br />
of longest run<br />
1,255<br />
The height of the village<br />
above sea level in metres<br />
882<br />
The vertical drop in metres<br />
Above and below: The many faces of Sun Peaks - images supplied<br />
HIGHLIGHTS FROM SUN PEAKS<br />
• Sun Peaks fondue night, is something not to be<br />
missed. Once (or sometimes twice) per week you<br />
can take the Sunburst Chair to the Sunburst Bar<br />
and eatery. Dressed in your ski gear you enjoy<br />
a delicous fondue experience, before you get to<br />
ski or snowboard down, in the dark. The freshly<br />
groomed 5 Mile run is the way down, with the help<br />
of a head torch and a guide. Or simply turn off the<br />
head torch and let the moonlight guide you down.<br />
• This seems odd, and I am not a foody, but once<br />
you have tasted the cinnamon buns at Sunburst<br />
Bar and eatery, you will be spoilt. They are ready<br />
each morning and you can tell when by the length<br />
of the queue. They are truly to die for. Whether it’s<br />
the quality of the baking or simply the location, they<br />
are truly unique.<br />
Nancy Greene, a Sun Peaks icon<br />
• An Icon of Sun Peaks is Nancy Greene,<br />
Nancy was Director of <strong>Ski</strong>ing at Sun<br />
Peaks Resort for over 25 years and<br />
continues to assist with guest relations as<br />
an Ambassador for Tourism Sun Peaks.<br />
Olympic Gold and Silver medalist, she skis<br />
better than anyone you know and is happy<br />
to meet with guests each day and tour the<br />
mountain that she calls home. She is a<br />
wealth of information and will even give a<br />
little unique instruction on how to improve<br />
your skiing.<br />
• Other Activities: <strong>Snow</strong>shoeing, dog<br />
sledding, ice fishing, fat biking, ice skating,<br />
snowmobiling, hockey and more.<br />
• Favourite Run: If you are looking for<br />
perfect grooming it’s hard to look past 5<br />
mile. However, with two weeks of sunshine,<br />
we kept returning to CC Riders on Morrisey,<br />
it offered great snow conditions and an<br />
entertaining terrain.<br />
Below: The crew in Sun Peaks, 2019, with<br />
Morrisey visable in the background<br />
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Leave the the crowds behind.<br />
Sun Peaks. Where you belong.<br />
Canada’s 2nd 2nd Largest <strong>Ski</strong> <strong>Ski</strong> Area Area<br />
www.sunpeaksresort.com
Image courtesy of BC Tourism<br />
Revelstoke<br />
Revelstoke offers a unique experience<br />
compared to the other fields we visited<br />
this time. Unlike many other destinations,<br />
Revelstoke Mountain Resort only offers<br />
one ski-in/ski-out option. Most of the<br />
accommodation can be found in town,<br />
which is only a short 8-minute drive away,<br />
so they are almost one and the same.<br />
This time we opted for a couple of nights<br />
in the town of Revelstoke. It had that old<br />
school vibe, somewhat reminiscent of<br />
Wanaka back in the day before it became<br />
a higher-end destination.<br />
The day we arrived the snow was falling,<br />
creating a picturesque bustling town<br />
full of restaurants, bars, shops, and all<br />
the essentials for day-to-day life. The<br />
overnight snow deposited 12cm of fresh<br />
powder on the slopes which created a<br />
buzz with locals and visitors alike. It was<br />
here we witnessed our first crowds, a rare<br />
occurrence in Revelstoke but still nothing<br />
by NZ standards.<br />
When researching the fast facts, I thought<br />
I’d got them wrong as it was hard to believe<br />
their stats. Revelstoke is a big and steep<br />
mountain, boasting a vertical drop that is<br />
1000m greater than almost all the other<br />
ski fields we visited. The gondola ride to<br />
the top was a bit intimidating (watch for<br />
the infamous Kill The Banker Run on your<br />
way up), but it provided a stunning view of<br />
the terrain and some of the most extreme<br />
skiing we’ve seen so far. But don’t let that<br />
deter you, there are plenty of slopes for<br />
intermediate skiers too, and we had a<br />
great time exploring them.<br />
We met passionate locals who had a<br />
deep attachment and love for Revelstoke.<br />
It was heartwarming to see their sense of<br />
community and pride in their mountain.<br />
Favourite Run: It was challenging to pick<br />
a favorite run on such a vast mountain,<br />
but we always thoroughly enjoyed our top<br />
to bottom run, The Last Spike. We also<br />
received excellent advice from the locals:<br />
head to the gondola when the lift lines<br />
get a little busy, you’re less likely to find<br />
queues.<br />
Overall, Revelstoke provided us with a<br />
unique experience that we thoroughly<br />
enjoyed, and we would recommend it<br />
to anyone looking for a ski resort with a<br />
small-town charm and a big mountain<br />
feel.<br />
By the<br />
numbers...<br />
1050<br />
The annual snowfall in cm.<br />
3,121<br />
Acres of skiable terrain<br />
75<br />
Named runs<br />
12% beginners | 43% intermediate |<br />
45% expert/extreme<br />
15.2<br />
The length, in kilometres,<br />
of our favourite run, The<br />
Last Spike<br />
1,710<br />
The vertical drop in metres<br />
REVELSTOKEMTN.COM<br />
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38// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ
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historic facts...<br />
73<br />
The number of meters Nels<br />
Nelsen jumped in 1925<br />
Revelstoke might be famous for its downhill<br />
snowsports now, but once upon a time it was<br />
the place to be for ski jumping. <strong>Ski</strong> jumping was<br />
a craze brought to Revelstoke by the Norwegians<br />
who settled here in the late 1800s and early 1900s.<br />
5 world records were set on the jump before it fell<br />
out of use in the 1970s, including a staggering 73m<br />
jump by Nels Nelsen in 1925<br />
of snow<br />
2,447Centimetres that fell in 1972<br />
In 1972, 2,447 centimetres (80 feet) of snow falls on<br />
Mount Copeland outside of Revelstoke. This is the<br />
Canadian record for snowiest single winter. <strong>Snow</strong><br />
levels were higher than many roofs.<br />
Heli-<strong>Ski</strong>ing & Cat-<strong>Ski</strong>ing, Kootenays Revelstoke - Image courtesy of BC Tourism<br />
Most vertical in North America - Image courtesy of BC Tourism
Our next stop was Panorama Mountain Resort. The<br />
3.5 hour drive took us through Glacier National Park<br />
and Rogers Pass, the high mountain pass through<br />
the Selkirk Mountains, and along the valley between<br />
the Kootenay Mountain and the Purcell Mountain<br />
Ranges. The scenery along the way was simply<br />
stunning.<br />
We had visited Panorama four years previously<br />
with my brother and his family. There were 8 of us<br />
in total and everything about the few weeks we had<br />
were perfect. The weather, the snow, the runs, the<br />
scenery, the accommodation and the company all<br />
made for one of life’s highlights, so we were pretty<br />
excited to be returning.<br />
Once again Panorama did not disappoint. I think it<br />
really helps when you know a mountain well, you<br />
are able to ski with ease, knowing what’s around<br />
the next bend or behind the next tree. The first<br />
day we experienced some firmer conditions as we<br />
re-explored the mountain; the locals were eagerly<br />
awaiting some fresh snow, which fortunately for us<br />
arrived that night.<br />
Panorama offers quite a variety of trails from perfectly<br />
groomed, super wide runs with hardly anyone on<br />
them, through to the glades and bowls of Sun Bowl,<br />
to the double blacks of Taynton Bowl. We spent a<br />
lot of time in Sun Bowl but were fortunate enough to<br />
experience Taynton Bowl with a little help from the<br />
Monster X passenger snowcat.<br />
Although the double black terrain was outside of our<br />
skiable ability, we caught the Monster X cat up to the<br />
top of the “Monster” terrain. We lucked on a calm<br />
clear day where just being there was an experience<br />
in itself. Although feeling slightly fraudulent being out<br />
in double black terrain without the credentials to get<br />
ourselves safely out, we soaked up everything about<br />
the experience before skiing back in the tree line<br />
next to the cat track.<br />
Panorama is situated in the Purcell Mountains and<br />
really is embraced by them. Unlike some of the other<br />
resorts where you look out and see mountains in<br />
the distance, at Panorama you are the mountains,<br />
that’s all you can see. There’s a run from the very top<br />
called “View of 1000 Peaks” and no lie, that’s what<br />
you can see on a clear day.<br />
Since we were last in Panorama a few things had<br />
changed; there had been major upgrades to the Alto<br />
Restaurant and a huge development of the Nordic<br />
Centre with the inclusion of fat bike hire and multi use<br />
Nordic trails so we decided to head into the trails on<br />
the fat bikes. I had always thought Kiwis’ were pretty<br />
active people but nothing seems to compare with<br />
the Canadians who chose to live in the mountains.<br />
When they are not downhill skiing, you’ll find them<br />
snow shoeing, cross country skiing or fat biking. We<br />
headed onto the Creek Trail on the advice of a local<br />
cross country skier, and biked alongside Toby Creek<br />
that runs through Panorama, another memorable<br />
experience.<br />
Image by Steve Dickinson<br />
Panorama<br />
By the<br />
numbers...<br />
520<br />
The annual snowfall in cm.<br />
2,975<br />
Acres of skiable terrain<br />
135<br />
The number of named runs<br />
20% beginners | 55% intermediate |<br />
25% expert/extreme<br />
10<br />
The number of lifts<br />
6.5<br />
The length, in kilometres,<br />
of longest run<br />
1,150<br />
The height of the village<br />
above sea level in metres<br />
1,300<br />
The vertical drop in metres<br />
Images by Steve Dickinson<br />
The views from every run in Panorama are spectacular - Image by Lynne Dickinson<br />
Images supplied by BC Tourism<br />
The town of Invermere is only 20 minutes<br />
drive away from the Resort and a shuttle runs<br />
down to the town regularly if you feel like a<br />
change in scene. It’s an arty little town on the<br />
edge of Lake Windermere, which itself offers<br />
another range of outdoor activities including<br />
the Lake Windermere Whiteway. This is the<br />
world's longest ice skating trail which runs for<br />
over 20km onto the frozen lake where you’ll<br />
see people ice fishing, and skating and biking<br />
along the Whiteway. Most Friday nights during<br />
winter you can head into town to watch the local<br />
hockey team in action, which is something I<br />
would thoroughly recommend.<br />
HIGHLIGHTS FROM PANORAMA:<br />
• Monster X <strong>Snow</strong>cat to the back of Taynton Bowl. Even if you can’t ski the double blacks,<br />
it’s worth the $20 to catch the cat to the top and experience the serenity and incredible<br />
views.<br />
• Hockey game in Invermere - a must do! Thanks to Mark and Lisa for a great night.<br />
• Dinner at newly renovated Alto Bar was fantastic<br />
• Chilli at The Shack on the edge of Greywolf Golf course, easily accessible from the base<br />
of the Sunbird Chair, perfect with a beer around the outside firepit.<br />
• Huge thanks to Jamie, Clarissa and the team from Panorama for hosting us and for<br />
sharing your beautiful ski field.<br />
• Other Activities: Heli skiing, fat biking, tandem paragliding, alpine skiing, skating,<br />
snowmobiling, snowshoeing.<br />
• Favourite Run: Anything in Sun Bowl - the area makes for some great tree skiing and<br />
the snow seems to always hold well.<br />
42// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ J U N E 2 023// 43
IT’S TIME TO<br />
SPREAD YOUR<br />
WINGS<br />
Images courtesy of BC Tourism<br />
Norquay <strong>Ski</strong> Resort - Image by Reuben Krabb<br />
Banff<br />
One of the great things about being able to<br />
do this part of the trip with our own cars were<br />
the places we were able to stop on the way.<br />
Once you got your head around driving on the<br />
wrong side of the road and the lack of clear<br />
road markings due to the snow, driving was<br />
pretty easy. We lucked on a super clear day<br />
on our drive between Panorama and Banff<br />
and were rewarded with spectacular views the<br />
whole way.<br />
Banff National Park is one of five National<br />
Parks in the Canadian Rockies and Canada’s<br />
first National Park. With 6,641 square km of<br />
mountain ranges, lakes and rivers, there are<br />
over 1600km of hiking trails, 3 ski resorts, over<br />
2,400 campsites and more than 1000 glaciers.<br />
On the southern arm of the National Park you’ll<br />
find the town of Banff.<br />
Banff makes a great base for exploring the<br />
National Park so we decided to stop off for the<br />
night on our way to Calgary. It was strange to<br />
be back in “civilisation” after weeks of ski resort<br />
living. The town was bustling with people with<br />
restaurants and shops filling the streets.<br />
Needing a bit of solitude we decided to visit<br />
Johnson Canyon approximately half an hour’s<br />
drive from Banff. The canyon is an easy walk<br />
for anyone wanting to visit, but this time of the<br />
year it’s wise to take crampons as the trail is<br />
often covered in snow and ice. These can be<br />
hired in town or you can join a tour, which we<br />
decided to do.<br />
Discover Banff Tours picked us up from a<br />
central location in Banff and with the running<br />
commentary of our guide, we learnt loads<br />
about the area on our journey out to the<br />
canyon. We donned our crampons and<br />
started the gentle walk to the lower falls before<br />
heading up further to the upper falls, a location<br />
popular with ice climbers due to the 30m ice<br />
pillars formed this time of the year. After hot<br />
chocolates and cookies we made the decent<br />
back to the bus and back into Banff.<br />
We checked into Canalta Lodge for the night,<br />
(thoroughly recommend) before heading<br />
to Three Bears Brewery for an early dinner.<br />
With hundreds of restaurants to choose from<br />
we were glad to get a recommendation to<br />
the Brewery. The locals, tourists and a group<br />
celebrating a hen’s party, made for a lively and<br />
vibrant dinner venue and the food and wine<br />
lived up to the hype.<br />
A great way to get your bearings in Banff is<br />
to head up Sulphur Mountain on the Banff<br />
Gondola. From the top you can see six<br />
mountain ranges, the Bow Valley and the<br />
town of Banff. Unfortunately by the time<br />
we got to the top the sun had long set and<br />
the mountains were just a distant shadow<br />
in the night sky. We were lucky enough to<br />
experience the Nightrise, a new initiative<br />
that transforms Sulphur Mountain into an<br />
immersive, interactive experience after dark<br />
through dynamic lights, projections, original<br />
soundscapes and more.<br />
You’ll feel right at home at Panorama, BC. The difference? The<br />
mountain is bigger, the snow is deeper, the weather is better<br />
and you sleep just steps away from the lifts.<br />
SAVE UP TO<br />
50% OFF<br />
LODGING & LIFT TICKETS<br />
17 & under ski free!<br />
See PanoramaResort.com/NZ<br />
for Ts & Cs.<br />
44// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ
Images courtesy Alyeska Resort, Alaska<br />
Alyeska<br />
Next stop, @Alyeksa Resort, Alaska.<br />
We have been brought up on clips of extreme<br />
skiers on remote peaks and movies of a wild<br />
country, so we were surprised how accessible<br />
Alaska was, a direct flight to Anchorage and a<br />
short drive and we were in Alyeska.<br />
Alyeska Resort is a 40 minute drive from<br />
Anchorage. Due to the snowfall we decided<br />
to give ourselves extra time and were glad we<br />
did. The snow did not slow down our trip but<br />
the scenery certainly did. From Anchorage we<br />
drove along Turnagain Arm with the Cook Inlet<br />
laden with moving icebergs on one side and the<br />
Chugach Mountains on the other. It was truly<br />
majestic.<br />
Alyeska Resort is on the edge of the town of<br />
Girdwood, a picturesque mountain town only 5<br />
minutes drive from the ski fields and located in<br />
Chugach State Park. It has built its reputation on<br />
steep terrain and deep snowpack and incredible<br />
views and is open all year round.<br />
Mid-February, Alaska gains around 5 minutes<br />
of daylight each day (over 30 minutes a week)<br />
and while we were there the lifts opened from<br />
10.30am till 5.30pm which made for a very<br />
relaxed start to the day. Staying at the Alyeska<br />
Hotel, right at the base of the tram to the top, we<br />
were perfectly positioned ready to go when the<br />
lifts opened.<br />
We couldn’t have planned our visit more perfectly<br />
as the week’s previous snowfall created the best<br />
snow conditions we had experienced during our<br />
three weeks travels. The snow continued to fall<br />
throughout the day creating somewhat limited<br />
visibility but excellent snow conditions. With<br />
limited knowledge of the mountain we decided to<br />
work our way up from the bottom.<br />
Expert skiers love Mount Alyeska for its long<br />
double black runs, and boasts North America’s<br />
longest continuous double black run, the North<br />
Face. We watched from the safety of the Bore<br />
Tide Deli & Bar at the top of the aerial tram as<br />
people dropped off the side of the mountain into<br />
the tree filled runs of Pandora and Banjo.<br />
46// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
By the<br />
numbers...<br />
170<br />
The annual snowfall in cm.<br />
1,610<br />
Acres of skiable terrain<br />
76<br />
The number of named runs<br />
11% beginners | 52% intermediate |<br />
37% expert/extreme<br />
7The number of lifts<br />
3.5<br />
The length, in kilometres,<br />
of longest run<br />
The North Face, North America’s<br />
longest continuous double black<br />
run.<br />
975<br />
The vertical drop in metres<br />
From the top of the Glacier Bowl Express lift, the big<br />
bowls of Alyeska are accessible. The lack of trees at<br />
this height reminded us a little of skiing at home, just<br />
on a grander scale. The recent and continual snowfall<br />
made for excellent skiing, however with the snow<br />
came limited visibility and we were forced to follow the<br />
treelines further down so we could see better.<br />
We skied all day before heading to the Alyeska Nordic<br />
Spa located at the bottom of the tram, right next to our<br />
hotel. Can throughout recommend!<br />
We’d been told that Girdwood and surrounds made<br />
an excellent location to view the Northern Lights, but<br />
as we went to bed that night the clouds had settled in<br />
and obscured our view of the mountains so we slept<br />
soundly. You can imagine the feeling the following<br />
morning when someone asked if we had seen the<br />
Northern Lights the night before!<br />
One of the great things about Alyeska is that there’s<br />
plenty to do when you are not skiing. Fat bike rental<br />
is available and the shuttle runs around the resort as<br />
well as down to the town of Girdwood which is a great<br />
base for snowmobiling, helisking and exploring the<br />
numerous glaciers.<br />
HIGHLIGHTS FROM ALYESKA:<br />
• Hydrotherapy at the Alyeska Nordic Spa<br />
• Favourite Run: Tanaka Hill, a black run on the far<br />
side of Lower Bowl provided excellent untouched<br />
skiing.<br />
• Other Activities: Fat biking, snow shoeing,<br />
snowmobiling, Northern Lights viewing, ATV<br />
tours, aerial tram rides, hiking, and during<br />
summer, river rafting/float trips, sea kayaking,<br />
ziplining and more.<br />
www.black-crows.nz
Revelstoke Mountain Resort<br />
As our trip came to an end I was asked once<br />
more which had been my favourite resort. I<br />
explained my philosophy of “loving the one<br />
you’re with” but people’s response often still<br />
was, “but where had the best snow?” “where<br />
had the best runs?” I however, had come to<br />
realise something far more important. There<br />
didn’t have to be 20cm of fresh powder, the<br />
longest runs, the steepest terrain, or the<br />
greatest weather to have the best experience.<br />
We need to alter our mindset and go out each<br />
day and love whatever is thrown our way. As<br />
Guy Paulsen from Panorama said, “a bad<br />
day on the mountain is better than a good day<br />
anywhere else.” And we couldn’t agree more!<br />
love<br />
the<br />
one<br />
You’re<br />
with<br />
TRAVEL TIPS<br />
• We drove from Kelowna to Calgary, which during<br />
winter meant we drove through some sketchy<br />
conditions by NZ standards. If you are driving,<br />
check driveBC before you leave for an update on<br />
weather and road conditions.<br />
• If you are not confident driving you could still have<br />
done the trip as each field offers a shuttle system<br />
to get you to and from the closest airports.<br />
• Driving in Alaska was another story. With the<br />
amount of snow falling while we were there it’s<br />
advisable to get a shuttle to the ski field and other<br />
activities unless you are familiar with driving in<br />
heavy snow.<br />
www.HelloBC.com/ski | www.fijiairways.com<br />
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HEADSNOW.CO.NZ
Experts at adventure travel since 2000<br />
"where clients become friends"<br />
Lake Louise <strong>Ski</strong> Resort - courtesy of Banff Tourism<br />
The wonders of skiing Banff<br />
I have had mixed feelings about Banff for<br />
many years. The first time I went there it was<br />
snowing, a lot, which meant the weather was<br />
terrible but the skiing epic. The second time<br />
it was incredibly cold. The third time it was<br />
spring, the snow was incredible and we had<br />
multiple bluebird days, third time lucky I guess.<br />
Just 2 hours from Calgary airport Banff is a<br />
mix of mad castles, picturesque chateaus,<br />
epic mountains, wildlife, retail therapy and<br />
three completely different ski resorts, Banff<br />
has character in spades!<br />
<strong>Ski</strong> Big Three provides a ski pass which<br />
covers all three of the mountains as well as<br />
shuttle transport. All within 40 minutes’ drive<br />
of Banff the resorts all have distinctly different<br />
characters.<br />
Norquay is the closest mountain to Banff and<br />
features steep fall line skiing. It is a racers delight<br />
with fast blue and black runs and a dedicated<br />
race course off the Mystic chair. If you like bump<br />
runs and steep black terrain head to the North<br />
America chair where you will find plenty! In bad<br />
weather the resort is sheltered by the trees<br />
and has amazing steep powder runs. Its not all<br />
skiing at Norquay either, this resort boasts tube<br />
runs and a large terrain park walking distance<br />
from the base. The resort has 503 metres of<br />
vertical drop with 60 runs.<br />
Sunshine – With Banff’s only ski in, ski out<br />
accommodation Sunshine is an epic place to<br />
50// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
By Phil Clark<br />
wake up in the morning. The recently renovated<br />
hotel is right in the heart of the resort on an<br />
alpine plateau. A truly huge resort, Sunshine<br />
has alpine powder bowls, steeps, trees and<br />
incredible views of the Canadian rockies.<br />
See if you can spot the Goats Eye, explore<br />
Lookout mountain and Mount Standish and<br />
try not to get lost in the plethora or runs and<br />
terrain that make up Sunshine. The skiing is<br />
mainly alpine in nature with trees on the lower<br />
sections. When the weather is bad, stay low<br />
or head to the other resorts, when its bluebird<br />
Sunshine is truly spectacular. Sunshine has<br />
1070 metres of vertical drop with 145 runs .<br />
Lake Louise – The largest resort in Banff<br />
with a huge range of terrain over four<br />
separate mountain faces. Lake Louise has<br />
an abundance of powder bowls, steep fall line<br />
skiing, trees and terrain parks. The other great<br />
thing about Lake Louise is that it has its own<br />
town close to the base of the hill so you can<br />
choose to stay close to the resort if you want.<br />
Staying in Banff or Lake Louise is a very<br />
special experience, wildlife can be seen<br />
right in the villages, there are loads of walks,<br />
shopping and the food is devine. I have been<br />
lucky enough to experience both the Fairmont<br />
Chateau Lake Louise and the Fairmont Banff<br />
Springs. These beautiful hotels offer an olde<br />
world experience rarely seen today. Perched<br />
on the edge of the lake and surrounded by<br />
lofty peaks The Chateau Lake Louise has<br />
a feminine charm with flower scenes on the<br />
doors and delicate décor, as a complete<br />
contrast The Fairmont Banff Springs is like<br />
a mad Hogwarts castle. Raw stone, suits of<br />
armour and medieval decorations dominate.<br />
Even if you just go for a cocktail at the bar<br />
make sure you experience these wonderful<br />
properties.<br />
If the Fairmonts are a bit rich for your tastes (or<br />
budget) Banff and Lake Louise have ample<br />
other accommodation. Just a few minutes<br />
from the centre of Banff are a range of good<br />
hotels including Ptarmigan Inn, The Fox<br />
Hotel and the Moose. These have a range of<br />
facilities including rooms with kitchens etc. On<br />
Tunnel mountain 10 minutes from Banff there<br />
are resort style hotels more suited to larger<br />
groups and families. These properties have<br />
larger condo style rooms and are set in the<br />
forest where sightings of moose and deer are<br />
common.<br />
Lake Louise village is the other place you<br />
can stay. Just 5 minutes from Lake Louise<br />
resort the village has accommodation, a deli,<br />
grocery store and a bakery as well as a couple<br />
of sporting good stores. The Lake Louise Inn<br />
offers a range of room types right up to condo<br />
style one bedroom suites.<br />
At Mad about Travel we suggest you combine<br />
a week in Banff with a week in a ski in, ski out<br />
resort like Panorama, Kicking Horse or Fernie<br />
to get the best of what Canadian skiing has to<br />
offer. Book early to get the best deals!<br />
"We live what we sell"<br />
0800 623 872<br />
info@madabouttravel.co.nz<br />
madabouttravel.co.nz
<strong>Ski</strong>-in, <strong>Ski</strong>-out Resorts –<br />
You’re Definitely Worth the Flight.<br />
Gear up! Canada is calling. With its allure of<br />
big snow and increased flights for the winter<br />
season, it’s little wonder that Canada, and its<br />
slope-side and ski-in, ski-out charm is an ideal<br />
winter and ski holiday destination.<br />
visit friends and relatives in North America,”<br />
says Naughton. “We expect that demand<br />
to only intensify this year as more New<br />
Zealand travellers seize the opportunity to visit<br />
Canada’s world class winter attractions.”<br />
many times, and can provide the best holiday<br />
ideas, tips, and itineraries when it comes to<br />
a ski holiday in Canada. All the details taken<br />
care of from flights, to airport transfers and the<br />
perfect ski resort.<br />
Lake Louise, Image by Travis Rousseau<br />
Same-Day <strong>Snow</strong><br />
Be on the slopes of some of British Columbia’s<br />
world-class ski fields on the day you arrive.<br />
Air Canada is offering non-stop B787 Dreamliner flights between<br />
Auckland and Vancouver from October 2023 to March 2024,<br />
with passengers enjoying an award-winning three-cabin service.<br />
Sun Peaks / Sam Egan<br />
Call a <strong>Ski</strong> Travel Expert to book your ski/board holiday to Canada<br />
0800 555 035<br />
Panorama<br />
Revelstoke / Ian Houghton<br />
Whistler Blackcomb / Tourism Whistler<br />
Post-Covid, Kiwis have been looking to<br />
embark on their bucket list snow holiday. With<br />
a favourable Canada exchange rate combined<br />
with increased flights between Auckland and<br />
Vancouver, Canada is a compelling offering<br />
for Kiwi travellers.<br />
The 2022/23 Northern Hemisphere ski season<br />
has kept everyone happy with Canadian ski<br />
resorts welcoming back more international<br />
visitors. Resorts across Canada received<br />
between 3-14 metres of snow – and this<br />
season had more than a flurry of late season<br />
snow. Alberta’s Lake Louise <strong>Ski</strong> Resort<br />
received an impressive top up of late snow in<br />
April 2023.<br />
Looking ahead to the next ski season, one<br />
airline aims to stand out to Kiwi travellers. Air<br />
Canada, Canada’s largest airline, is providing<br />
the New Zealand traveller more options when<br />
it comes to choosing a flight. So much so, the<br />
airline is increasing its Auckland to Vancouver<br />
service from three flights per week to a record<br />
five flights per week from December 2023.<br />
Air Canada’s General Manager Australia and<br />
New Zealand Vic Naughton says the increase<br />
in frequency reflects the success of last<br />
season’s flights.<br />
“Last year we saw extraordinarily high demand<br />
for seats, driven in part by a desire for Kiwis to<br />
What does this really mean? It means<br />
getting to Canada and the many ski slopes<br />
just got easier. Plus, an extra bonus is that<br />
Air Canada’s service arrives in Vancouver in<br />
the early morning. And yes, this means Kiwis<br />
have the option to be on the slopes of some of<br />
British Columbia’s world-famous ski-fields on<br />
the day they arrive.<br />
For skiers and boarders, the Canadian<br />
mountains beckon with unparalleled vertical,<br />
spectacular scenery and massive terrain.<br />
From the world-famous slopes of Whistler<br />
Blackcomb to the Champagne powder of the<br />
Interior and the steep chutes and long runs<br />
of the Powder Highway, the variety of alpine<br />
landscape is staggering.<br />
Canada is a powerhouse when it comes<br />
to après ski activities, including bucketlist<br />
experiences; think dogsled tours,<br />
snowmobiling, ice canyon walks, ice fishing<br />
and snow tubing. This is also a destination that<br />
is well tuned to the family ski experience with<br />
everything from kids' ski lessons, hot pools to<br />
tailored childcare activities. Just look at the<br />
other pages in this issue to see what Canada<br />
has to offer.<br />
Make life even easier: <strong>Ski</strong> holiday travel<br />
experts travel&co. have all the right<br />
connections, have skied the Canadian resorts<br />
Choose What Suits You: Award-winning<br />
three-cabin services. 30 Signature Service<br />
lie-flat seat suites, 21 Premium Economy<br />
and 247 Economy Class seats.<br />
Five Times Weekly: Air Canada will operate<br />
more direct northern winter flights from New<br />
Zealand than ever before; starting with three<br />
a week in November and moving to a record<br />
five flights a week December through March.<br />
A state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 aircraft will<br />
operate the Auckland-Vancouver service.<br />
Same Day <strong>Snow</strong>: Air Canada’s non-stop<br />
flights from Auckland arrive in Vancouver in<br />
the early morning. Be on the slopes of some<br />
of British Columbia’s world-class ski fields on<br />
the day you arrive.<br />
0800 555 035 www.travelandco.nz/canada www.travelandco.nz/enquire-now/skiboard-enquiries/<br />
Signature Class<br />
J U N E 2 023// 53
Hassle-free <strong>Ski</strong>ing<br />
Above and below: Club Med Kiroro, Images supplied<br />
Discover More<br />
There is a lot of ‘hassle’ attached to a family ski holiday,<br />
from finding the right location, the gear, the transfers,<br />
and all the unseen costs. There is one company that<br />
takes care of all of that and has done so for generations;<br />
Club Med offers all-inclusive packages in some of the<br />
most exclusive snow locations on earth.<br />
Club Med anticipates the needs and expectations<br />
of skiers and provides a smoother, more enjoyable,<br />
and more relaxing experience for whole families.<br />
From accommodation to all-day gourmet dining and<br />
beverages, lift passes, group ski lessons, Kids Clubs,<br />
relaxation, and après-ski activities, they have thought of<br />
every detail so you don’t have to.<br />
For 60 years, Club Med has been a pioneer in<br />
all-inclusive mountain holidays, offering holiday<br />
experiences in more than 20 resorts globally throughout<br />
Canada, Europe, and Asia. So where should you go?<br />
Club Med Kiroro, Japan<br />
Discover the ultimate Japanese snow experience at Club Med Kiroro, where<br />
two existing properties have been transformed into an integrated snow resort,<br />
offering two distinct buildings with easy access to the Kiroro ski domain. With its<br />
exceptional location in one of Japan's best snow destinations, guests can access<br />
to some of the best powder snow in the world and long ski seasons until May –<br />
their only mountain resort in Asia to offer spring skiing.<br />
Club Med Kiroro Peak offers a multitude of facilities and activities including the<br />
brand’s first traditional Japanese onsen, distinctive restaurant and bar concepts,<br />
a full-service spa and wellness space and modern event spaces. Boasting<br />
216-rooms, the resort is designed for couples and families with teenagers and<br />
has a minimum age access of 12 years old.<br />
The new Club Med Kiroro Grand, set to open in December 2023, promises<br />
a new chapter of elevated mountain holidays, offering direct access to 23 ski<br />
courses. Families will feel right at home with a host of family-friendly activities and<br />
amenities, including a dedicated Kids Club for children aged 2 to 17, as well as<br />
the award-winning Amazing Family! Programme.<br />
J U N E 2 023// 55
Club Med Tignes, Image by Mountain Legacy<br />
Club Med Tomamu, Japan<br />
Escape to Japan’s powder paradise Club Med<br />
Tomamu Hokkaido, just one and a half hours<br />
away from New Chitose Airport. The nearby<br />
Ice Village offers a unique experience, with<br />
ice skating, ice slides and an ice restaurant.<br />
And for those seeking relaxation, there’s the<br />
Kirin-no Yu outdoor Japanese public bath.<br />
Savour the Flavours of Hokkaido at the<br />
speciality restaurant, Haku, where premium<br />
beef cuts and seafood options. Guests<br />
can indulge in guided tastings of premium<br />
Japanese whiskies and sakes while enjoying<br />
light bites. And to cap off the day, visit the<br />
resort's dynamic main bar, Unkai, for an<br />
intoxicating mix of majestic views, lush beats,<br />
and artisanal cocktails.<br />
Club Med Tignes, France<br />
Club Med Tignes is the most contemporary<br />
Club Med in the Alps following its renovation<br />
which was unveiled in December 2022.<br />
The resort boasts 430 rooms, 25 Exclusive<br />
Collection suites, two restaurants, the largest<br />
pool in the Alps, a full spa and wellness<br />
salt wall, a full childcare programme and<br />
300km of ski slopes suitable for every level.<br />
Perched high on the hillside, the Exclusive<br />
Collection Space known as 'Le Sommet'<br />
provides views of the snow-covered peaks,<br />
while Equinoxe Bar offers a welcoming<br />
atmosphere for families to get together.<br />
The resort is the perfect place to enjoy the<br />
mountain experience to the fullest.<br />
Club Med Alpe d’Huez, France<br />
Club Med Alpe d’Huez, an upscale ski-in,<br />
ski-out resort nestled in the French Alps,<br />
offers chic accommodations, authentic<br />
dining options, and a wide range of ski and<br />
snowboard experiences with panoramic<br />
views. Surrounded by the L’Alpe d’Huez<br />
Grand Domaine, France’s second-largest<br />
ski area, guests can enjoy over 250km of<br />
ski runs. Families can opt for two-bedroom<br />
accommodations with private terraces<br />
overlooking the valley. Adults can choose to<br />
unwind at La Bulle, an adult-exclusive wellness<br />
lounge with calm music, comfy seating areas,<br />
and yoga and meditation classes. The resort’s<br />
main restaurant, Le Pic Blanc, features three<br />
dining halls, while Les Alpages offers all-youcare-to-eat<br />
gourmet meals with live music.<br />
A NEW WAY TO<br />
STAY AFLOAT<br />
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FEATURES<br />
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Image by Julian Love<br />
Image supplied by Club Med<br />
What exactly is on offer at Club Med?<br />
<strong>Ski</strong>ing and snowboarding become a breeze when lift passes and<br />
group ski lessons are all part of the package. Lessons are tailored<br />
to different age groups and skill levels and guided by accredited<br />
instructors. Equipment and facilities are primed and ready for your<br />
arrival, so there's no waiting in line or faffing about with gear.<br />
Beyond skiing, Club Med offers an array of après-ski activities, dining<br />
experiences, and entertainment to keep guests engaged throughout<br />
their stay. <strong>Snow</strong>shoe trekking or Nordic skiing, tobogganing even<br />
sleigh rides around the mountain.<br />
Everyone loves spending some time with the kids on the snow, but<br />
when you’re ready for a break Club Med offers supervision for children<br />
aged 2 to 17 years old, with dedicated GOs (Gentils Organisateurs)<br />
and instructors providing activities and courses such as the <strong>Ski</strong><br />
Kindergarten and the Junior Club Med for teenagers aged 11 to 17<br />
years old. The Mini Club provides an exciting space for kids ages 4-10<br />
years to explore and make new friends.<br />
Image supplied<br />
Club Med's Amazing Family! programme provides areas designed<br />
with families in mind, giving them the chance to spend quality time<br />
together. Club Med's resorts also provide entertainment for the whole<br />
family, including parties and live performances.<br />
Above all, Club Med's snow resorts are a unique place to unwind and<br />
recharge batteries. Think Zen Zones with its indoor pools and wellness<br />
areas for adults only. Club Med's Spa by Sothys is also the ideal retreat<br />
to escape to after a long day on the slopes.<br />
With a complete fitness program, including cardio-training, spinning,<br />
swimming, and Vibhava Yoga, Club Med provides energising<br />
treatments, moments of relaxation, tranquillity, and well-being. Club<br />
Med pulls out all the stops to make sure every family member has a<br />
ball and leaves with unforgettable memories.<br />
For more information or to book your next dream all-inclusive snow<br />
holiday, visit www.clubmed.co.nz or speak to one of their travel<br />
advisors at 0800 258 263.<br />
New for 2023, the BCA Float E2 Airbag Pack comes equipped<br />
with the Alpride E2 supercapacitor inflation system that’s<br />
fully rechargeable and<br />
approved for airline travel.<br />
www.backcountryaccess.com<br />
Featuring our innovative Side Stash pocket<br />
and Back Stash zip that makes it easier to<br />
travel on snow without stopping to hydrate,<br />
swap hat/gloves/eyewear, or even skins—<br />
just rip ‘em, stash ‘em and go!<br />
56// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ
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Find us on the <strong>Ski</strong> Fields This Season<br />
central plateau<br />
North Island’s playground<br />
The Central Plateau is New Zealand’s<br />
adventure playground. There are kilometers of<br />
virgin national park, forests, rivers, lakes and<br />
to top it off three major ski areas, Whakapapa,<br />
Tūroa and Tokino. These ski areas are all<br />
nestled uniquely on a volcano, which makes<br />
for exceptional terrain and lends itself to<br />
natural bowls, long steep slopes and a snow<br />
playground in the middle of the South Pacific.<br />
Whakapapa has the gondola, the Sky Waka.<br />
The $25 million gondola travels 1.8 km’s<br />
through the most rugged and spectacular<br />
landscapes, past waterfalls (in winter frozen), a<br />
Lord of the Rings landscapes. Whakapapa is<br />
New Zealand’s largest ski region with over 550<br />
hectares of challenging terrain: wide groomed<br />
trails, huge snow-filled basins, steep chutes &<br />
secret powder stashes. A fully self-contained<br />
learners’ area, Happy Valley, boasts a café,<br />
rental complex, and ski school meeting area.<br />
The gentle slope has easy-to-use with carpet<br />
lifts and a slow-moving chairlift for beginners.<br />
On the other side of the mountain is Tūroa.<br />
Tūroa rests on the southwestern slopes of Mt<br />
Ruapehu and is a 25 minute drive up from the<br />
township of Ohakune.Tūroa boast the nation’s<br />
longest vertical drop at 722m and the High<br />
Noon Express' 6-seater chairlift reaches the<br />
highest lifted point in New Zealand, where you'll<br />
enjoy panoramic views of North Island. Turoa<br />
can be exposed and cold, but it holds its snow<br />
throughout the season, the drive up through<br />
the snow-covered bush line is worth the price<br />
of admission alone.<br />
There’s more to do in Central Plateau than just skiing<br />
Tukino: Like the quiet baby sister Tukino is huddled on the eastern slopes of Mt<br />
Ruapehu. The small, local skifield offers the rare combination of adventure and<br />
lack of crowds. Tukino is a family-friendly ski field with activities for everyone, with<br />
the friendliness and a lack of fuss that’s only found on club-operated fields. Tukino<br />
has 170 hectares of ski area, over 300m of vertical drop, and great conditions<br />
sheltered from Westerly winds.<br />
WHERE TO STAY: Ohakune is the closest town to Tūroa and has a range of<br />
great accommodation options. Ohakune provides the quintessential ski town<br />
experience.<br />
Nestled into the lower slopes on the western side of Mount Ruapehu, Whakapapa<br />
Village marks the base of the Bruce road and only 10 minutes to the Whakapapa<br />
ski field.<br />
National Park Village is only 20 minutes from Whakapapa. Here you will find a<br />
range of accommodations and friendly local pubs with warm fireplaces ready for<br />
après.<br />
Taupo and Turangi offer a ‘big’ town option with Turangi only 45 mins from the Top<br />
of the Bruce (Whakapapa) and Taupo only an additional 40 minutes on top of that.<br />
J U N E 2 023// 59
#KnowYourStuff<br />
Looking for the perfect base<br />
to stay and play in the<br />
Ruapehu Region?<br />
With us, you can be sure you will find the perfect size, style<br />
and location of accommodation to suit your needs.<br />
Largest variety of holiday homes in Ohakune. Locally owned and operated.<br />
e: info@ruapehu.co.nz | p: 06 385 8149<br />
www.ruapehu.co.nz<br />
PERFORMANCE SPORT<br />
AW21 SNOW & SKI PACK<br />
COMFORTABLE<br />
ACCOMMATION<br />
ACCOMMODATION<br />
FROM DORM BEDS<br />
TO PRIVATE DOUBLE<br />
ENSUITE ROOMS<br />
CHALLENGING<br />
INDOOR<br />
CLIMBING WALL HALL<br />
OPEN DAILY 9AM-8PM<br />
OPEN DAILY 9AM - 8PM<br />
TONGARIRO<br />
VOLCANIC<br />
ADVENTURES<br />
BUS TO WHAKAPAPA<br />
SKI FIELD AND<br />
MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS<br />
MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS<br />
4 Findlay Street, National Park Park 3948<br />
nat.park.backpackers@xtra.co.nz<br />
07 892 2870 www.npbp.co.nz<br />
For many, National Park Village has been<br />
a part of countless unforgettable ski holidays<br />
to Mt Ruapehu - where the lure and life force<br />
of the magic mountain rings true. Where the<br />
natural environment is so majestic, there is<br />
a palpable rhythm that you can sense in this<br />
living landscape of sacred peaks, ancient<br />
rainforests, alpine valleys, and otherworldly<br />
volcanic vistas. Bordered by the UNESCO<br />
Dual World Heritage site of Tongariro National<br />
Park to the east and Whanganui National<br />
Park to the west, National Park Village has a<br />
population of around 200 permanent residents<br />
so a very close-knit community proud to call<br />
this place home. With its wide-open spaces,<br />
friendly locals, and unrushed pace of life, this<br />
is your invitation to winter well in Ruapehu’s<br />
Greater Outdoors.<br />
Easy access right in the heart of it all: At the<br />
junction of the Adventure Highway on State<br />
Highway 4 and the Volcanic Loop Highway<br />
on State Highway 47, National Park Village<br />
is the perfect base for your winter holidays.<br />
Halfway between Auckland and Wellington in<br />
the Central North Island, it’s easy for friends<br />
and families to meet in the middle, ideal for<br />
mid-week or weekend getaways. You can also<br />
arrive by scenic trail journey on the Northern<br />
Explorer with three stops in Ruapehu including<br />
Taumarunui, National Park and Ohakune.<br />
On the mountain fun<br />
Whakapapa: With National Park Village as<br />
your base, you can wake up with the mountains<br />
at your doorstep and take advantage of the<br />
mountain shuttles transporting visitors up<br />
to Mt Ruapehu. Whakapapa ski area on Mt<br />
Ruapehu is just 20 kms up the road for an<br />
epic winter’s day on the mountain. Home to<br />
NZ’s premier beginner’s facility, Happy Valley<br />
offers a fully self-contained learner’s area with<br />
experienced, passionate instructors to help<br />
you progress your skiing or snowboarding<br />
skills. With 550 hectares to explore ancient<br />
lava flows, epic bowls, and exhilarating chutes<br />
there is a good mix of terrain for different<br />
abilities with 30% beginners, 45% intermediate<br />
and 25% advanced.<br />
There are also two rental stores for gear<br />
hire and a designated tobogganing area<br />
for snow play the whole family can enjoy.<br />
For visitors who love the snow and want to<br />
enjoy some spectacular sightseeing, the Sky<br />
Waka gondola ride at Whakapapa delivers<br />
breathtaking views as you journey 1.8 km<br />
above the unique volcanic terrain of Tongariro<br />
National Park and its snow-covered landscape<br />
painting a magnificent winter’s dream. Arrive<br />
at the award-winning Knoll Ridge Chalet 2020<br />
m above sea level, grab a hot beverage and<br />
a meal, and soak up the ambience at NZ’s<br />
highest dining experience.<br />
Tūroa: But wait, the fun doesn’t stop there.<br />
On the southwestern slopes of Mt Ruapehu<br />
lies Tūroa ski area. Season passes cover<br />
both sides of the mountain for double the<br />
fun and two ski areas to discover. It’s about a<br />
45-minute drive to Tūroa from National Park<br />
Village as you wind your way down along<br />
the Adventure Highway with a few iconic<br />
landmarks to take in along the way such as the<br />
engineering marvel of Makatote Viaduct which<br />
takes the North Island Main Trunk railway<br />
line above the deep gorge of the Makatote<br />
River. There’s also the giant 7.5 metre tall<br />
Ohakune Carrot as an ode to the rich farming<br />
history and market gardening in the area, also<br />
known as the carrot capital of NZ. As for other<br />
edible, unforgettable attractions, don’t miss the<br />
world-famous chocolate eclairs from Johnny<br />
Nation’s in Ohakune.<br />
Mountain shuttles to Tūroa ski area are also<br />
available from Thames Street in Ohakune for<br />
a short 16 km journey up Ohakune Mountain<br />
Road to the ski area. Tūroa is a mighty<br />
playground to explore with plenty of wide-open<br />
space and features NZ’s highest lifted point<br />
at 2322 m and the country’s biggest vertical<br />
descent of 722 m. With 20% beginners,<br />
50% intermediate and 25% advanced terrain<br />
there’s options for all levels to enjoy world class<br />
skiing and boarding. There’s also a rental store<br />
for all your gear hires as well as two licensed<br />
cafes so you have everything you need for an<br />
awesome way on the mountain at Tūroa.<br />
Off the mountain adventures: If you’re<br />
looking for some winter adventures<br />
mountainside, there is plenty on offer in and<br />
around National Park Village. With easy<br />
access to the pristine natural environment of<br />
Tongariro National Park, NZ’s oldest national<br />
park, it’s no wonder a nature escape to<br />
Ruapehu is good for the soul all year-round.<br />
Breathe in that fresh mountain air, stand still<br />
beneath awe-inspiring mountain views, and<br />
linger a little longer under darky starry skies.<br />
For four wheeling fun, you can hop on a quad<br />
bike (or buggy rides for those under 16 years<br />
of age) with Ruapehu Adventure Rides. Or go<br />
pedal powered by exploring the network of<br />
cycle tracks in the area including Fishers Track<br />
as well as Marton Sash and Door Tramway –<br />
a fascinating grade 3 ride for most ages and<br />
abilities, this 16 km loop track takes you back<br />
in time to the local logging history via a bush<br />
tramway and is a great winter ride. Both rides<br />
are part of the Mountains to Sea Ngā Ara<br />
Tuhono Cycle Trails with e-bikes available at<br />
The Alpine Centre for half day or full day hires.<br />
From family friendly, accessible nature walks<br />
to hikes to hidden lagoons and enchanting<br />
waterfalls, you’ll also be spoiled for choice<br />
with world-class walking and hiking tracks in<br />
the area that range from short strolls, half day<br />
adventures to full day alpine expeditions.<br />
A bucket-list for many is the guided Tongariro<br />
Alpine Crossing over the winter season with a<br />
local expert to guide you on the day. National<br />
Park Village also offers a fantastic indoor rockclimbing<br />
facility with an 8 metres high climbing<br />
hall offering 55 different climbs from beginner<br />
to advanced. Just next door is Schnapps Bar<br />
Mini Golf – an impressive 18-hole, Ruapehu<br />
themed course complete with chairlifts that’s<br />
challenging and fun for friends and family<br />
to enjoy before or after a great meal at the<br />
restaurant of course.<br />
Stay and play, there’s something for<br />
everyone: From family friendly stays, cosy<br />
lodges, to boutique bed and breakfasts, there’s<br />
a fantastic range of unique accommodation<br />
options to enjoy mountain side in Ruapehu.<br />
For more info to plan your Central North Island<br />
winter getaway, go to<br />
www.visitruapehu.com or<br />
www.nationalpark.co.nz<br />
www.tongariroalpinecrossing.org.nz<br />
J U N E 2 023// 61
Plateau Lodge<br />
Escape to the Wilderness<br />
WHY THE ALPINE CENTRE?<br />
Expert advice and service | <strong>Ski</strong> & snowboard hire | <strong>Ski</strong> & board tuning | Shop online<br />
<strong>Ski</strong> Biz – RENTAL<br />
• You get tuned equipment every time you rent gear. After every rental<br />
we tune all our snowboards and skis so you always get equipment<br />
that slides and turns like it should.<br />
• Our helpful & friendly staff will ensure you are fitted out with the right<br />
gear in no time. Or you can book online and have gear set aside<br />
for you to try when you arrive, and our computerised rental system<br />
retains the details so you can book the same gear again.<br />
• We continuously replace our rental equipment, and have included<br />
a new targeted Intermediate skier rental program, with a range of<br />
Intermediate performance rental skis which can also be purchased<br />
through the shop for special discounted prices.<br />
• All our snowboard boots have Boa Fit Lace systems, we use Burton<br />
rental bindings and have a range of boards from K2, Never Summer,<br />
Rossignol, Burton, and Arbour.<br />
• We do cater for everyone from beginners, Intermediate to Advanced<br />
<strong>Ski</strong>ers, and rental clothing for tiny tots to 6XL<br />
• Our extensive opening hours ensure you have time to get rentals<br />
without wasting valuable mountain time.<br />
<strong>Snow</strong>zone - SHOP<br />
• Our shop is stocked with all the snow store essentials.<br />
• Products are competitively priced, and the selection is vast with<br />
goggles ranging from $50-$500, helmets from $89 and waterproof<br />
snow gloves starting at only $20<br />
• Our professional boot fitters will ensure you are fitted in the right<br />
boot for your ability, fitness and physique, and we have all the boot<br />
fitting tools and tricks like customer foot beds, heat mouldable liners<br />
and shells, boot shell stretching<br />
• We have ski and binding packages starting from $699<br />
<strong>Snow</strong>zone - WORKSHOP<br />
• Our Wintersteiger tuning centre has all the machinery to ensure<br />
your skis or boards are serviced to such a high standard they are<br />
like new again.<br />
• Our experienced ski technician has been tuning equipment for more<br />
than 10 years and will be providing overnight tuning for skis and<br />
snowboards on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.<br />
• Drop your gear in any day for Edging and Waxing.<br />
E-BIKES<br />
• We have expanded our e-bike rental fleet with new Whyte E-Bikes.<br />
With dropper post seats and 4 assistance modes, you’re guaranteed<br />
an enjoyable ride.<br />
• When you need a day off from the mountain, rent a bike for one of our<br />
local Mountains to Sea Trails; Marton Sash & Door, or Fishers Track.<br />
WINTER HOURS<br />
• Monday – Friday: 7.30am to 7pm & till midnight on Fridays<br />
• Saturday – Sunday: 7am to 7pm<br />
The Alpine Centre team all share a passion for having fun on the snow, and are keen to help and ensure everyone who comes into our stores is<br />
equipped with the gear they need to have the best possible and memorable snow experience! Our motto is Providing Friendly and Helpful Service!<br />
Close access to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Whakapapa ski field<br />
and numerous cycle trails<br />
www.plateaulodge.co.nz | Tongariro National Park<br />
17 Carroll Street, National Park Village<br />
Ruapehu<br />
Ph: 07 892 2993<br />
Whirlpool Suites | Double Spa Rooms | Queen & King Size Beds |<br />
2 x Conference Rooms | Breakfast Restaurant | Free Wireless<br />
Broadband | Air-Con/Heat Pumps in all Units | Gym<br />
Dual Heritage Tongariro<br />
National Park<br />
cafes - accommodation - activities<br />
TONGARIRO<br />
National Park<br />
Villages<br />
<strong>Ski</strong> Biz and <strong>Snow</strong>zone @ The Alpine Centre | 10 Carroll Street, National Park Village<br />
Ph 07 892 2717 | www.thealpinecentre.co.nz<br />
www.nationalpark.co.nz<br />
www.tongarirocrossing.org.nz
accommodation<br />
activities<br />
THE PARK<br />
Independent 80 room 3 star tourist hotel with<br />
stunning views of Mounts Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe<br />
& Tongariro. Cosy lodge style restaurant &<br />
bar. National Park Village location right next to<br />
Tongariro National Park. Flexible group and set<br />
menu options, Conference and meeting facilities.<br />
Ideal for Tongariro Crossing, Whakapapa & Turoa<br />
snow resorts.<br />
www.the-park.co.nz |<br />
bookings@the-park.co.nz<br />
OLD POST OFFICE HOLIDAY HOME<br />
Ruapehu’s oldest post office is a bespoke historic<br />
Holiday Home able to be reserved as: •Opulent<br />
1-4 Bdr West-Wing incl sumptuous lounge,<br />
beautiful kitchen, gorgeous bedrooms, and<br />
back-deck with Sauna cabin, Spa-Pool & Fire-pit<br />
•Elegant 1-3 Bdr East-Wing with kitchen-dining<br />
•Entire 7-Bdr Bungalow (accom up to 17 guests)<br />
with six Queen/Double.<br />
Fantastic location for exploring many top hiking<br />
treks, top cycle trails, Forgotten Highway, worldclass<br />
Fly-Fishing, the mighty Whanganui River,<br />
Bridge to Nowhere, & NZ’s largest ski-field.<br />
www.theoldpostofficelodge.co.nz<br />
info@theoldpostofficelodge.co.nz<br />
PLATEAU LODGE<br />
Plateau Lodge is nestled in Ruapehu region with<br />
the backdrop of the Tongariro volcanos! Why stay<br />
with us? Tongariro Alpine Crossing -#1 tourist<br />
attraction summer or winter - Mt. Ruapehu -<br />
Cycle Trails at our doorstep- Timber Trail & Old<br />
Coach Road & Mountains to Sea. Our Lodge<br />
specialises in these activities, with packages<br />
& shuttles to suit your budget and timeframe.<br />
Plateau Lodge is the ideal stop for couples,<br />
families and small tour groups wanting to explore<br />
the Dual Heritage Tongariro National Park.<br />
We offer two bedroom apartments, king studio<br />
pods with outside baths and private lodge room<br />
with communal spaces. Onsite is a massage<br />
room, drying room, bike & wash down area, and<br />
breakfast.<br />
www.plateaulodge.co.nz<br />
DESTINATION GREAT LAKE TAUPŌ<br />
Taupō is a place of extraordinary natural beauty –<br />
a vast, sparkling lake, trout-filled rivers, steaming<br />
geothermal zones and towering snow-blanketed<br />
mountains. No matter what attraction is drawing<br />
your clients into the region, there are activities<br />
and accommodation to suit them all. From<br />
relaxed, cultural experiences to adrenaline-fueled<br />
excitement, there is something for everyone, right<br />
in the heart of Aotearoa’s North Island.<br />
www.lovetaupo.com<br />
TONGARIRO SUITES & NIGHTSKY COTTAGE<br />
Tongariro Suites is a premium, boutique<br />
accommodation in Ruapehu located just 15<br />
minutes’ drive from Ohakune. This eco-focussed,<br />
adults only property offers 5 gorgeous suites<br />
with magnificent mountain views, contemporary<br />
furnishings, as well generous living areas and full<br />
bathrooms with access to an outdoor hot tub and<br />
private deck.<br />
The Nightsky Cottage Experience is a one-of-akind<br />
eco-retreat into New Zealand native bush<br />
situated on the edge of Tongariro National Park.<br />
Unwind in side-by-side bathtubs, enjoy a private<br />
picnic, or relax in front of the log burner beneath<br />
the sky lights for in-house stargazing. Awarded<br />
Qualmark’s 5-star Gold Sustainable Tourism<br />
Business Award in 2020 and the 2021 100%<br />
Pure New Zealand Experience for its zero-waste<br />
journey and commitment to sustainability.<br />
www.tongarirosuites.co.nz<br />
TIMBER TRAIL LODGE<br />
Deep in the heart of Aotearoa’s North Island,<br />
right in the middle of nowhere, is a very special<br />
place. The Timber Trail Lodge, at the midpoint<br />
of New Zealand’s best two-day cycle trail,<br />
is nestled on the edge of a stunning native<br />
podocarp forest in the historic Pureora Forest<br />
Park. The lodge offers boutique, fully- serviced<br />
accommodation, and our transport service<br />
offers seamless, high quality transport and bike<br />
hire.Since opening in 2017 Timber Trail Lodge<br />
has been receiving wide praise for its quality<br />
service and commitment to sustainable tourism.<br />
www.timbertraillodge.co.nz<br />
stay@timbertraillodge.co.nz<br />
TONGARIRO LODGE<br />
Tongariro Lodge was established in 1982 and<br />
has earned an excellent reputation for gourmet<br />
dining, the finest accommodation, quality<br />
outdoor activities and the most experienced flyfishing<br />
guides in New Zealand. Tongariro Lodge<br />
is a world class, year-round centre of outdoor<br />
adventure and extraordinary fly-fishing. For<br />
over 40 years Tongariro Lodge has welcomed<br />
discerning guests from throughout the world.<br />
Perfectly set on the banks of the Tongariro River,<br />
close to magnificent Lake Taupō, the Lodge<br />
edges Tongariro National Park - home of three<br />
magnificent volcanoes and premier winter ski<br />
resort.<br />
www.tongarirolodge.co.nz<br />
KINGS OHAKUNE<br />
Kings is a historic hotel dating back to 1913,<br />
originally built to accommodate passengers<br />
travelling by train, we have 25 ensuite rooms<br />
with outside entry. There is an onsite restaurant<br />
and bar adorned with images of the area over<br />
the years illustrating its rich history. The bar<br />
also boasts a large deck with spectacular<br />
mountain views, a pool table and darts board.<br />
We have a smaller private dining room, perfect<br />
for breakfasts. Guests can also take advantage<br />
of one of 2 complimentary hot pools onsite. We<br />
look forward to welcoming you to Kings!<br />
www.kingohakune.co.nz<br />
info@kingsohakune.co.nz<br />
BRADLEY’S GARDEN<br />
Bradley’s Garden is a unique experience<br />
with a luxury boutique bed and breakfast<br />
set amidst a 5-star garden of National<br />
Significance. Bradley’s Garden offers a range<br />
of activities including garden tours, a 9 hole<br />
mischievous miniputt golf course, outdoor<br />
chess and a gorgeous Devonshire Tea in the<br />
bespoke garden gazebo complete with fine<br />
china. Located just 3 km from Taumarunui<br />
and 1km off the Forgotten World Highway,<br />
Bradley’s Garden is a hidden gem of peace<br />
and tranquility that will surprise and delight...<br />
an experience to remember.<br />
www.bradleysgarden.co.nz<br />
HUKA LODGE<br />
Huka Lodge has enjoyed a location of great<br />
natural beauty, on the banks of the mighty<br />
Waikato River, since it was founded as a<br />
very simple trout fishing camp, in 1924. This<br />
legendary retreat continues to define absolute<br />
style, while offering privacy and relaxation,<br />
with authentic outdoor adventure, for those<br />
who appreciate exquisite cuisine, personal<br />
service and unique experiences. With just<br />
25 guest suites, including two superb private<br />
cottages, within 17-acres of magnificent<br />
grounds, this is truly an exclusive experience.<br />
Huka Lodge proudly takes its place amongst<br />
the world’s best retreats<br />
www.hukalodge.com<br />
LAKESIDE ACCOMMODATION TAUPŌ<br />
We have an exclusive collection of Lakeside<br />
accommodation located beside the beautiful<br />
fresh water of Lake Taupō. Hospitality is at the<br />
centre of everything we do. We offer quality<br />
self-contained properties and pride ourselves<br />
on excellent service. We work with you to<br />
create the best experience possible while<br />
you’re here in Taupō. With over 65 properties<br />
on our portfolio we have something to suit<br />
everyone from couples to groups to corporate<br />
stays and multi generational family groups.<br />
www.llat.co.nz<br />
FORGOTTEN WORLD ADVENTURES<br />
Experience the sights on a fully guided tour,<br />
either by Rail Cart down the Forgotten World<br />
railway or by Jet Boat on the Whanganui River.<br />
Hear the heritage stories of hardy pioneers<br />
and off the beaten path communities in one<br />
of New Zealand’s most stunning North Island<br />
destinations. Explore the epic landscapes and<br />
changing scenery of New Zealand’s Forgotten<br />
World.<br />
www.forgottenworldadventures.co.nz<br />
TONGARIRO NATIONAL TROUT CENTRE<br />
Come and visit our freshwater centre where you<br />
can feed our beautiful rainbow trout, learn about<br />
conservation and our native fish and maybe see a<br />
Kereru, Tui or a Whio on the Tongariro River<br />
View one of New Zealand’s best collections of<br />
native freshwater fish. Our aquarium has Giant<br />
Kokopu, Koura, Tuna and Koaro to name a few<br />
species endemic to Aotearoa.<br />
Learn about the history of Trout and Fly fishing on<br />
the Tongariro River, one of the best fishing rivers in<br />
the World.<br />
www.troutcentre.com<br />
MOUNTAIN TO SEA / TIMBER TRAIL<br />
New Zealand is home to 23 Great Rides, each<br />
one unique and offering cyclists an opportunity to<br />
experience “wheely” special parts of the country.<br />
The Waikato and Ruapehu regions are home<br />
to a number of connected rides, and feature the<br />
Timber Trail - at the heart of Pureora and its special<br />
ecologically precious native forest, and Mountains<br />
to Sea - Ngā Ara Tūhono - the connected pathways<br />
taking you on a journey from Tūroa to the Tasman<br />
Sea. Over 500km’s of cycle trail supported with<br />
accommodation, logistics, bike hire and more.<br />
Create unbelievable memories on Great Rides<br />
someplace different.<br />
www.mountainstosea.nz<br />
www.timbertrail.nz<br />
VISIT RUAPEHU<br />
An off the beaten track destination with world-class<br />
activities and unique accommodation options,<br />
Ruapehu is a must-discover destination that<br />
connects people to place through meaningful,<br />
enriching experiences. Hike the Tongariro Alpine<br />
Crossing, ride the iconic Timber Trail, visit the<br />
National Army Museum Te Mata Toa, rail cart with<br />
Forgotten World Adventures, explore Blue Duck<br />
Station, picnic at NZ’s largest alpaca farm and<br />
canoe, fly fish, or jetboat to the Bridge to Nowhere<br />
on the Whanganui River.<br />
www.visitruapehu.com<br />
ADRIFT TONGARIRO<br />
Explore the magnificent snow-covered<br />
landscape of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing<br />
and Mt Ruapehu on a guided walk with Adrift<br />
Tongariro. Prices from $260 per person. No<br />
outdoor experience is necessary, all training<br />
and tuition is given on the day. Crampons and<br />
ice-axes are supplied by Adrift Tongariro for a<br />
fantastic alpine experience. Relax and unwind<br />
after your guided walk while taking in the<br />
spectacular views of the mountains at Alpine<br />
Chalets. 50% off your second night when you<br />
book a Cheeky Midweeky Deal.<br />
www.adriftnz.co.nz<br />
bookings@adriftnz.co.nz<br />
0800 462 374<br />
BLAZING PADDLES<br />
Blazing Paddles offer outdoor adventures in the<br />
remote wilderness and spectacular scenery of<br />
the Whanganui River. Operating in Taumarunui<br />
since 1998. Canoe Hire or full-service Guided<br />
Canoe Tours from daytrips to multi-night<br />
camping experiences. Jet Boat Tours to local<br />
attractions, Lauren’s Lavender Farm, off-grid<br />
glamping at Posh Pioneers, or historic Blue<br />
Duck Station. Fly Fishing with expert Peter Scott<br />
on the Whanganui, host to the<br />
2009 World Flyfishing Championships.<br />
Exclusive Jet Boat Fly Fishing Tours available<br />
on request. Sister company Aotearoa Safaris<br />
provide unique, fair chase or wild and free<br />
hunting experiences in spectacular scenic<br />
terrain, across New Zealand and in Australia.<br />
www.blazingpaddles.co.nz<br />
nfo@blazingpaddles.co.nz<br />
NEVALEA ALPACAS<br />
Nevalea Alpacas, the largest alpaca farm in<br />
New Zealand. We offer visitors ‘The Ultimate<br />
Alpaca Experience’ an opportunity to get up<br />
close to the alpacas, hand feed them and feel<br />
just how soft and cuddly they are. We operate<br />
alpaca treks & walks, visitors can walk an<br />
alpaca around the farm and see hundreds<br />
of alpacas come greet them in the hills,<br />
spectacular views surrounded by alpacas. We<br />
have baby alpacas all year-round, visitors can<br />
have a cuddle with them. Great up close and<br />
personal experiences and chances for amazing<br />
photos. We host “Picnics with our alpacas’ a<br />
relaxing option for visitors to enjoy. We have an<br />
alpaca shop on the farm with alpaca knitwear<br />
that’s made onsite for sale.<br />
www.nevaleaalpacas.co.nz<br />
sales@nevaleaalpacas.co.nz<br />
FOURB BIKE HIRE AND TOURS<br />
FourB Bike Hire and Tours incorporates its<br />
hire shop with a large fleet of performance<br />
Electric and normal bikes, shuttles and expert<br />
qualified local guides and staff to offer Electric<br />
bike and hike tours from 3 hours to 5 days.<br />
Supported all inclusive Multi day tours include<br />
some or all of: Great Lake Trail, Timber Trail<br />
and The Tongariro crossing. We offer shorter<br />
guided Electric bike tours on the Huka falls<br />
Geothermal loop trail (3 Hours). Bespoke<br />
private tours are no problem. Riders will<br />
need to be confident on a bike & trail riding<br />
experience is preferred but not compulsory.<br />
Ideal tour group sizes are 2 - 10 people but we<br />
can accommodate more.<br />
www.fourb.nz<br />
info@fourb.nz<br />
TAUPŌ TANDEM SKYDIVING<br />
Operating since 1992, we’ve skydived over<br />
200,000 tandems. We have the best priced<br />
skydive in New Zealand and some of the<br />
most epic views. Cruise up to 18,500 feet and<br />
soak up the scenery that makes skydiving<br />
over Lake Taupō so unique. <strong>Snow</strong> cappedvolcanoes,<br />
blue skies, and pristine waters are<br />
just some of the incredible views you will see.<br />
Reaching speeds of up to 200km per hour,<br />
experiencing the thrill of free fall is something<br />
you’ll never forget. After an amazing freefall<br />
experience, you’ll float back towards earth<br />
with a relaxing parachute ride before landing<br />
back at the dropzone.<br />
www.taupotandemskydiving.com<br />
CHRIS JOLLY OUTDOORS<br />
A now Taupō institution, Chris Jolly Outdoors<br />
was founded in 1980 by its namesake, Chris<br />
Jolly and his wife Sue. The team has always<br />
had a love of the great outdoors in Taupō,<br />
New Zealand and sharing that with people like<br />
you has been a dream realised for Chris and<br />
Sue. Chris Jolly Outdoors boasts an array of<br />
offerings, from scenic cruises on Lake Taupō,<br />
private charters & corporate events, fishing<br />
trips, and hiking & biking trips with some of<br />
the region’s most experienced and passionate<br />
guides.<br />
www.chrisjolly.co.nz<br />
bookings@chrisjolly.co.nz<br />
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canterbury<br />
Porters Alpine Resort - Image supplied<br />
central south island<br />
getting the most from canterbury<br />
By Rahana Jarvis<br />
Broken River - Image by Claire Newell<br />
Canterbury’s ski areas put on a smorgasbord<br />
for skiers and boarders who enjoy indulging<br />
in high adrenaline runs as well as those who<br />
prefer to take their time and to chew through<br />
cruisier scenic slopes. Explore this menu of<br />
central southern fields and taste-test a terrain<br />
less travelled. Cruise the blues and work your<br />
way down the country with us as we search<br />
for the smooth, wide-open grooming and easy<br />
access with chairlifts or T-bars.<br />
Northern most and generously sprinkled in<br />
late Winter sun, Mt Lyford is a family-run<br />
ski resort with terrain for all levels. Great<br />
for groups of mixed abilities, this field offers<br />
‘Learner Lift Passes’ easily upgraded to an ‘All<br />
Lifts’ pass when confident. <strong>Ski</strong>ers stick right of<br />
the Cloudy T-Bar 'Back Run' for the wide-open<br />
ridge face that drops back down to the T-Bar<br />
for another ride up. Don’t forget to nab that<br />
selfie at the iconic yellow truck.<br />
Only one hour from Christchurch, discover<br />
Porters Alpine Resort. Porters has a<br />
combination of a chairlift and T-Bars. From<br />
the base facility you can look up to two<br />
exciting slopes, both accessible from the top<br />
T-Bar. Big Mama sits to the south and is<br />
north east facing. It’s an impressive vertical<br />
drop of 620 metres and an open face for big<br />
turns. The other slope is Bluff Face which is<br />
southeast facing and can sit in the shade early<br />
in the season, so the snow remains cold and<br />
inviting. On a good day the snow can fill in as<br />
you ski, soft and wind-blown and you can track<br />
out a number of runs. Beginners can take to<br />
the well-groomed and very popular Sundance<br />
Basin. For an easy ride from top to bottom<br />
take the Sundance T-Bar. For an even longer<br />
run to the bottom follow the 'cat track' through<br />
to McNulty's Basin.<br />
.<br />
Another Cantabrian club field is Broken<br />
River. <strong>Ski</strong> the wide open Broken River Basin<br />
through the middle of the ski area to Palmer<br />
lodge. Often the snow is easy going and the<br />
terrain encouraging. A word of warning, if you<br />
want to enjoy BR (as it’s known to the locals)<br />
you’ll need to have mastered the rope tow for<br />
full enjoyment.<br />
Second closest to Otautahi is Cheeseman: a<br />
self-professed family fun environment with two<br />
T-bars and well-groomed terrain. <strong>Ski</strong>ers and<br />
snowboarders hang right of the Main T-Bar<br />
through to the bottom. Don’t forget to stop at<br />
the top of the Ridge T-Bar and Tarn Basin for<br />
fresh powder and views of the backcountry.<br />
Mt Hutt, should need no introduction. Voted<br />
NZ’s best ski resort 2015-2021, head straight<br />
to the top of the Summit Six chairlift and drop<br />
into Morning Glory off the cat track, far skiers<br />
right. Go out to Broadway, the wide groom<br />
here is perfect for fast laps all the way to the<br />
base area. Pull up at the top of the mountain<br />
for views back over the Canterbury Plains and<br />
out to the Pacific Ocean on a typical bluebird<br />
day. The easy rides continue with breathtaking<br />
views further south in the Mackenzie<br />
district.<br />
Temple Basin is on the Main Divide and your<br />
ultimate big mountain experience. Hiking and<br />
skiing off the peaks has been a big part of<br />
many keen locals and visitors' exploits with<br />
a long history of thrill seekers making the<br />
pilgrimage. From the top of Temple Col, just<br />
above the top tow, is the wide-open terrain<br />
of the upper Mingha Valley – a must-do ski<br />
adventure paradise. With views abounding,<br />
don’t forget to take in the stunning scenery<br />
with the majestic backdrop of Mt Rolleston.<br />
Craigieburn Valley <strong>Ski</strong> Area is described as<br />
a fully serviced backcountry experience and<br />
holds the tagline ‘<strong>Ski</strong> the Big One’. <strong>Ski</strong>ing off<br />
Middle Basin chutes through to Big Bend is a<br />
massive run with 600 metres of vertical descent.<br />
The chutes are steep and tight, opening up to a<br />
fast-flowing basin, and as you get to the lower<br />
part there is a collection of rolling troughs and<br />
mini valleys to excite the weary legs. There is<br />
also great hiking out to North Peak when the<br />
snow conditions allow.<br />
Famous for its ski-in, ski-out lodging, test<br />
your mettle in the playground of the god’s<br />
at Mt Olympus. This field is best known for<br />
its sheltered aspect and spring skiing while<br />
other fields may have shut up shop. Proud<br />
of it’s ‘groomer free’ moniker and embracing<br />
what Mother Nature provides, this quiet field<br />
can regularly provide fresh runs all day. Four<br />
nutcrackers and steep terrain do a good job of<br />
thinning out the crowds.<br />
Back down in Mackenzie at the top of the Two<br />
Thumb range, lies little-known Fox Peak. A<br />
sheer delight for those looking for uncrowded<br />
fields, take one for four rope or the platter to find<br />
easy skiing down Happy Valley with the South<br />
Canterbury plains in the background.<br />
Off-piste at Mt Lyford<br />
Craigieburn Easy Bowl<br />
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Your powder<br />
playground<br />
awaits<br />
LUXURY ACCOMMODATION<br />
Strategically located only one hour<br />
from Christchurch airport and just<br />
25 minutes away from the Mt Hutt<br />
access road, we’re the ideal base for<br />
your thrilling winter activities. Spend<br />
your days carving up the slopes<br />
before returning to the warmth and<br />
comfort of your villa.<br />
FABLE TERRACE DOWN RESORT<br />
Experience a truly one-of-a-kind getaway at Fable<br />
Terrace Downs Resort, the high-country addition to<br />
Fable Hotels and Resorts' portfolio of exceptional<br />
accommodations. Surrounded by magnificent<br />
mountain ranges, this high-country resort offers the<br />
perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.<br />
Located only an hour's drive from Christchurch<br />
International Airport and a 25-minute drive to the<br />
access road of Mt Hutt, Fable Terrace Downs Resort is<br />
the perfect place to base yourself for your next winter<br />
getaway.<br />
Self-contained villas overlook alpine scenery from<br />
your balcony. The spacious open plan living allows for<br />
a home away from home feel, surrounded by some<br />
of the South’s most breath-taking views. Fitted with<br />
comfortable beds, luxury linen and high-quality guest<br />
amenities, your stay allows for ultimate comfort. The<br />
best part? Enjoy a long soak in your raised spa bath<br />
after a long day on mountain.<br />
The resort's one, two, and three-bedroom villas cater<br />
to all traveller types. Whether guests are visiting for a<br />
romantic getaway, family vacation or friend-group ski<br />
trips, the versatility of the resort is unmatched. Whether<br />
you’re staying for one night or ten, your fully equipped<br />
kitchen and comfortable furnishings make staying for<br />
an extended amount of time easy!<br />
activity on a calm day.<br />
In addition to golf, the resort offers a range of other<br />
weather-permitting outdoor activities that are enhanced<br />
by the beautiful landscape. Visitors can try their hand<br />
at tennis, claybird shooting, archery, fly fishing, and<br />
more. Don’t worry – bad weather means you get to<br />
spend the day dining at The Clubhouse, sitting fireside<br />
with a mulled wine, or simply cosying up in your warm<br />
villa! There's something to cater to everyone's interests<br />
and positions the resort as a captivating year-round<br />
destination.<br />
The Clubhouse Restaurant and Bar offers an<br />
exceptional culinary journey, offering a delicious a la<br />
carte menu that showcases how our talented chef’s<br />
bring together the best of the regions flavours of<br />
produce. Savour the stunning vistas from your table<br />
or bask in the warm glow of the fireplace during chilly<br />
weather. Furthermore, guests can partake in the<br />
enticing drinks menu with ease, as a complimentary<br />
shuttle service is available to assist with transportation<br />
back to their villas.<br />
Service is attentive yet unobtrusive, the benefit of only<br />
having a handful of guests is the maximised experience!<br />
Whether it's being served up your preferred drink or<br />
recommended local activities and establishments that<br />
are to your taste, the staff are clearly passionate about<br />
their work.<br />
If you don't feel like hitting the slopes, there's a myriad<br />
of activities visitors can try their hand at. One of the<br />
resorts most outstanding features is the championship<br />
18-hole golf course, ranked as one of the top 50 golf<br />
courses in New Zealand by Australia Golf magazine.<br />
Set amongst breath-taking alpine scenery, the green<br />
is reason enough to stay and provides for the perfect<br />
Staying at Fable Terrace Downs Resort is an<br />
experience in itself, far beyond just finding a lastminute<br />
room for a night. The natural surroundings will<br />
leave you breathless and you'll find yourself wanting<br />
to extend your stay indefinitely. Whether you seek<br />
adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, venture and see<br />
the best of what New Zealand has to offer.<br />
Book now<br />
fablehotelsandresorts.com | 03 318 6943<br />
623 Coleridge Road, Canterbury 7572<br />
J U N E 2 023// 69
mackenzie<br />
MACKENZIE COUNTRY<br />
One of New Zealand’s best kept secrets is the<br />
magical area known as the Mackenzie region.<br />
Smack in the middle between Christchurch and<br />
Queenstown you’ll find a relaxed, uncrowded<br />
layback alternative to the busy neighbouring<br />
regions.<br />
<strong>Snow</strong> shoeing with Alpine Recreation<br />
Scenically the Mackenzie region boast some of NZ<br />
most impressive scenery, including Aoraki/Mount<br />
Cook, Tekapo, Twizel and Fairlie and nestled<br />
amongst this beautiful backdrop are three familyowned<br />
and operated ski fields with breath-taking<br />
views, incredible ski adventures and epic offmountain<br />
experiences. This, blanketed with both<br />
plenty of snow and a relaxed atmosphere, makes<br />
the Mackenzie region a must for your bucket list.<br />
The Mackenzie region has enjoyed some of the<br />
best powder conditions over the past few years<br />
and the fact that the everything is close by you can<br />
always find the best conditions on the day.<br />
There’s also heaps of off-mountain nature based<br />
activities, from hot pools and tubs to ice skating<br />
and tubing to walking and cycling trails, stargazing,<br />
astronomy experiences and more. The region is<br />
home to the world’s largest dark sky reserve and<br />
winter is the best time to explore the night sky.<br />
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park offers hiking for<br />
every ability and there’s plenty of ways to explore<br />
the Tasman Glacier.<br />
J U N E 2 023// 71
ROUNDHILL<br />
Roundhill <strong>Ski</strong> Area is approximately 35<br />
minutes drive from Tekapo and has one<br />
of the country’s easiest access roads<br />
which offers spectacular views over Lake<br />
Tekapo and towards Aoraki/Mount Cook<br />
and the Southern Alps.<br />
Roundhill offers plenty for skiers and<br />
boarders of all levels and is known for<br />
its relaxed family -friendly atmosphere.<br />
There’s a large learners area next to<br />
the carpark and you’ll often find parents<br />
preparing a barbeque at their car whilst<br />
watching the kids.<br />
For the intermediate skier there’s plenty of runs and the von Brown Bar, which<br />
overlooks Lake Tekapo is the perfect spot for a break when your legs start burning.<br />
Roundhill also boasts the world longest and steepest rope tow for the more<br />
adventurous skiers. The vertical drop of 783m offers super long natural half-pipes<br />
and chutes making for skiing and riding at its best.<br />
www.roundhill.co.nz<br />
OHAU OHAU<br />
Ōhau <strong>Snow</strong> Field is less than an hours<br />
drive from Twizel and overlooks the<br />
spectacular Lake Ōhau and out to Aoraki<br />
/ Mount Cook and the Southern Alps.<br />
Ohau is a mountain for all abilities and<br />
has a dedicated learners area where<br />
you can develop your skills. The double<br />
chair lift takes you to the wide flat slopes<br />
at the top of the mountain which enables<br />
intermediate skiers to access and cruise<br />
down the Boulevard.<br />
For the more expert and advanced skiers, theres plenty of off-piste terrain on offer,<br />
all with exceptional views. If you are keen to hike from the top you’ll find some of the<br />
best powder snow and once again the views are magnificent.<br />
When you’ve finished your day on the slopes, a stop at the Lake Ōhau Lodge is a<br />
must. The relaxed, old school lodge oozes kiwi charm. Sit by the fire, grab a wine, a<br />
meal and enjoy some genuine kiwi hospitality. www.ohau.co.nz<br />
snowfields | lake Ōhau lodge<br />
@roundhillnz<br />
roundhill ski area<br />
www.roundhill.co.nz<br />
reservations@ohau.co.nz or (03) 4389 885 | www.ohau.co.nz
MT DOBSON<br />
Mount Dobson is nestled in a sun-soaked<br />
basin and its great powder conditions<br />
make it a favourite with the locals. Just a<br />
short drive from Fairlie and Lake Tekapo,<br />
Dobbo (as it’s affectionally known by<br />
locals) offers uncrowded runs with plenty<br />
of variety. There’s a large learners area<br />
for the beginners and expansive skiable<br />
terrain for the rest, offering impressive<br />
elevations and dry, fluffy snow.<br />
As with all ski spots in the Mackenzie region, the views are epic and the atmosphere<br />
relaxed.<br />
Don’t forget to stop off at the Silvestream Heritage Pub in Kimbell when visiting Mt<br />
Dobson. It offers great food and brews coupled with true kiwi hospitality. The country<br />
pub is the place to head after a day on the slopes and during the weekend you’ll find it<br />
a great spot to listen to some local music. www.mtdobson.co.nz<br />
Luxury possum fur products,<br />
custom-made with passion<br />
and care in Whakatane, NZ<br />
SKI THE TASMAN<br />
Almost any level of skier can ski the Tasman<br />
glacier. It’s the ultimate entry-leve backcountry<br />
ski experience. The Tasman Glacier is New<br />
Zealand’s largest and sits right next to Aoraki/<br />
Mount Cook. The runs are easy – moderate<br />
blue/greens and each run is approximately<br />
8-10km long. You will also get to explore<br />
blue ice caves, incredible ice formations<br />
and learn about glacial terrain and seracs<br />
from experienced and knowledgable guides.<br />
Access is via helicopter or ski plane and the<br />
flight over the Southern Alps is as memorable<br />
as the day skiing. It’s the ultimate poder<br />
experience and an unbeatable ski adventure<br />
to share with family and friends.<br />
www.skithetasman.co.nz<br />
www.mtcookskiplanes.com<br />
www.mtcook.com<br />
SKI TOURING<br />
& SNOW SHOEING<br />
The Mackenzie’s natural alpine environment is<br />
the perfect place to explorer and there’s a range<br />
of hut based and hut to hut guided experiences<br />
available. Explore glaciated terrain, remote valleys<br />
and spectacular high country stations as you head<br />
backcountry. For those wanting to get into ski touring,<br />
check out one of the instruction courses to develop<br />
your skills so you can go further, safely.<br />
Tasman Glacier Heli <strong>Ski</strong>ing<br />
with<br />
Southern Alps Guiding<br />
Aoraki Mt Cook<br />
“The only operator licensed to heliski the Tasman Glacier”<br />
WWW.MTDOBSON.CO.NZ<br />
Clothing | Hats | Socks | Cushions | Accessories & more<br />
e: info@bearcottage.co.nz | p: 07 308 9994<br />
www.bearcottage.co.nz<br />
Call today to make your winter booking<br />
0274 342277 / www.aorakimtcook.com
HELISKI<br />
This is one of New Zealand’s<br />
largest heli-ski areas, a wilderness<br />
of ancient glaciers, azure lakes<br />
and endless runs. It’s home to New<br />
Zealand’s highest peak and offers<br />
some of the most exhilarating ski and<br />
snowboarding terrain.<br />
The small group guided experiences<br />
offer the best in true Kiwi hospitality<br />
and the highest regard for safety with<br />
runs to suit all levels of heli-ski ability.<br />
www.thehelicopterline.co.nz,<br />
www.heliworks.co.nz,<br />
www.mtcook.com,<br />
www.mtcookskiplanes.com<br />
Recommended Stays:<br />
• The Musterers, Fairlie<br />
• Peppers Bluewater, Lake Tekapo<br />
• Lakestone Lodge, Lake Pūkaki<br />
• The Hermitage, Aoraki<br />
• Skyscape, Twizel<br />
Recommended Eats:<br />
• Silverstream Hotel, Kimbell<br />
• Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat dining<br />
experience, Lake Pūkaki<br />
• Mint Folk & Co, Twizel<br />
• Kohan, Lake Tekapo<br />
• Carnegies, Fairlie<br />
Recommended Do:<br />
• Tekapo Springs (hot pools, ice skating, snow<br />
tubing, stargazing)<br />
• Hooker Valley Track<br />
• Dark Sky Project stargazing or astronomy tour<br />
• Omarama Clay Cliffs<br />
• High Country Salmon<br />
the ultimate mountain experience<br />
If you're seeking an unforgettable adventure<br />
amidst the breath-taking landscapes of New<br />
Zealand's Aoraki/Mount Cook, look no further<br />
than the thrilling combination of a ski plane<br />
and helicopter combo with Mount Cook <strong>Ski</strong><br />
Planes & Helicopters, a testament to the<br />
ingenuity of aviation pioneer Sir Harry Wigley.<br />
Sir Wigley, a New Zealand aviation enthusiast,<br />
invented the retractable ski plane in the<br />
1950s, a specialised aircraft designed to land<br />
on snow, ice and tarmac runway, making it<br />
ideal for navigating the mountainous terrain of<br />
Aoraki/Mount Cook. Sir Wigley revolutionised<br />
aviation in New Zealand and founded Mount<br />
Cook <strong>Ski</strong> Planes in 1955. .<br />
This unique experience allows you to take to<br />
the skies in two different aircraft on the same<br />
day, offering unparalleled views and a chance<br />
to land on the majestic Tasman Glacier for a<br />
truly awe-inspiring adventure. The ski plane,<br />
with its specially designed skis, enables you<br />
to access remote areas and land on pristine<br />
snowfields, giving you the opportunity to<br />
step out and explore the awe-inspiring<br />
alpine environment in a way that was once<br />
unimaginable.<br />
As you embark on this breath-taking<br />
adventure, you'll be captivated by the<br />
panoramic views that unfold before<br />
you. From the ski plane windows, you'll<br />
witness the stunning blue glacier lake, the<br />
Hochstetter Icefall, and the cloud-piercing<br />
Aoraki/Mount Cook, all while soaring above<br />
the Tasman Valley. The ski plane's versatility<br />
and maneuverability allow you to navigate<br />
through the valleys and glaciers with ease,<br />
offering an exhilarating experience.<br />
But it's not just about the thrill of flying in a ski<br />
plane; it's also about the history and legacy<br />
of this pioneering aircraft. Harry Wigley's<br />
invention of the ski plane revolutionized<br />
aviation in New Zealand, opening up new<br />
possibilities for exploring the remote and<br />
rugged landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook. His<br />
ingenuity and innovation continue to inspire<br />
aviation enthusiasts and adventurers to this<br />
day, as they embark on the same journey he<br />
once pioneered.<br />
After the ski plane adventure, you'll swap<br />
aircraft and continue your journey with a<br />
helicopter ride, adding a new dimension to<br />
your Alpine adventure. The helicopter allows<br />
you to soar high and get up-close-andpersonal<br />
with the towering peaks, glaciers,<br />
and valleys, offering a different perspective<br />
of the awe-inspiring landscapes below.<br />
The helicopter ride adds an extra level of<br />
excitement and adrenaline to your adventure,<br />
as you manoeuvre through the valleys and<br />
soar above the majestic peaks, creating a<br />
truly unforgettable experience.<br />
The combination of the ski plane and<br />
helicopter combo offers a comprehensive<br />
and thrilling experience you cant do anywhere<br />
else in the world. Mount Cook <strong>Ski</strong> Planes &<br />
Helicopters is the only <strong>Ski</strong> Plane & Helicopter<br />
operator in the world which lands on a glacier<br />
year-round.<br />
This experience is designed so you can<br />
appreciate the true beauty of the Aoraki Mt<br />
Cook National Park including sights such<br />
as the Aoraki Mount Cook, Tasman Glacier,<br />
Tasman Terminal Lake, the rugged Grand<br />
Plateau, and the imposing Hochstetter Icefall,<br />
all while learning about the natural history,<br />
Maori legends, and cultural significance of the<br />
region from your knowledgeable pilot guide..<br />
This unique experience is a tribute to the<br />
pioneering spirit of aviation in New Zealand.<br />
The combination of a ski plane and helicopter<br />
combo in Aoraki/Mount Cook offers an<br />
unparalleled adventure that allows you to<br />
explore the pristine wilderness of this aweinspiring<br />
region from above.<br />
J U N E 2 023// 77
Want to go Backcountry?<br />
Join New Zealand’s specialists in<br />
ski touring & ski mountaineering<br />
avalanche skills & backcountry courses<br />
hut-to-hut ski & split-board tours<br />
glacier skiing & split-boarding<br />
ski mountaineering<br />
heated private huts<br />
IFMGA & NZMGA ski guides<br />
0800 006 096<br />
www.alpinerecreation.com<br />
alpine recreation<br />
Alpine Recreation has over 40 years of experience guiding in the Tekapo<br />
backcountry, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and Southern Alps. Family<br />
owned and operated, Alpine Recreation offers unique year-round alpine<br />
adventures with exclusive access to the most stunning backcountry<br />
locations in the Southern Alps.<br />
Edelweiss Lodge – Tekapo Accommodation<br />
Edelweiss Lodge in Tekapo Village provides the perfect starting point for<br />
their Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook based adventures. Alpine Recreation<br />
also has two private and remote mountain huts Rex Simpson Hut in the Two<br />
Thumb Range and Caroline Hut in the Mount Cook Range<br />
<strong>Ski</strong> & Split-board Touring<br />
Alpine Recreation offers ski touring and splitboarding trips and backcountry<br />
instruction courses in New Zealand’s most spectacular winter wilderness<br />
locations. With two private, heated huts and a choice of many other venues,<br />
Alpine Recreation provides a wide range of touring options to cater for<br />
various ski and boarding abilities, fitness levels and personal objectives.<br />
Backcountry and Avalanche <strong>Ski</strong>lls Courses<br />
Instruction courses based at their private huts and lodge, catering to<br />
complete beginners, through to experienced skiers and boarders wanting to<br />
refresh their skills. Professional IFMGA / NZMGA qualified mountain guides.<br />
Glacier <strong>Ski</strong> & Split-board Touring<br />
Backcountry <strong>Ski</strong> & Split-board Touring amongst the glaciers of the Mount<br />
Cook and Westland National Parks. Typically based at Kelman, Tasman<br />
Saddle, Centennial, Pioneer or Plateau Huts.<br />
Symphony on <strong>Ski</strong>s<br />
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multi-day trans-alpine ski tour.<br />
For more information visit www.alpinerecreation.com
coronet peak • the remarkables<br />
southern lakes<br />
We’ve got you covered when the snow is epic<br />
and when you’re wanting some backcountry adventure!<br />
0800 GO SNOW +64 3 442 5958<br />
37 Shotover Street infosnow.co.nz<br />
Clockwork from top left: Remarkables / Cardrona / Treble Cone / Coronet Peak<br />
the southern lakes<br />
‘The Southern Lakes’ is a broad term that<br />
encompasses a wide mountainous region,<br />
studded with majestic lakes, (the largest of<br />
which are Wakatipu in Queenstown and Lake<br />
Wanaka on which the township of Wanaka<br />
is nestled). The Southern Lakes is not<br />
exactly and regional label, but it has become<br />
synonymous with some of the best ski resorts<br />
in the world.<br />
Queenstown and Wanaka have developed a<br />
reputation for quality of world renown. There<br />
are five commercial ski resorts to choose from<br />
which are some of the best places to ski in<br />
New Zealand.<br />
The Remarkables rises sharply from the<br />
eastern shores of Lake Wakatipu and offers<br />
great skiing and exceptional views. It is also<br />
part of NZ<strong>Ski</strong> and the NZ Superpass can be<br />
used here.<br />
*NZ Superpass allows you to ride between<br />
The Remarkables, Coronet Peak and Mt Hutt<br />
Coronet Peak is the closest to Queenstown<br />
and the sealed road makes for easier access.<br />
There’s 280 hectares of skiable terrain and a<br />
vertical drop of 462 metres. Also part of the NZ<br />
Superpass.<br />
Cardrona’s closest town is Wanaka, although<br />
the Cardrona Valley is slowly developing with<br />
accommodation and food options close by.<br />
Cardrona is a great family location but also<br />
provides great a terrain park for the free-skiers<br />
and boarders and plenty of off-piste areas for<br />
the more advanced skiers.<br />
Treble Cone is known for its steep expansive<br />
terrain and low crowds. It’s only a short drive<br />
from Wanaka and has one of the longest<br />
vertical drops in NZ at 700m.<br />
<strong>Snow</strong> Farm is a dedicated cross country<br />
ski area that also offers a range snow based<br />
alternatives to the main ski fields such as<br />
snow shoeing and tubing.<br />
Over the last few years, a range of other<br />
options in the region has developed to<br />
experience fresh, untouched powder, you<br />
head to Soho Basin, a vast private ski area<br />
with snowcats instead of chairlifts, or book<br />
on a heliskiing or snow plane ski adventures,<br />
which are numerous and affordable.<br />
Accommodation and facilities is as varied<br />
from backpackers and Air BnB to five-star<br />
resorts. From world-famous takeaways (like<br />
Fergs Bergers (that’s the one with the neverending<br />
queue outside) to amazing lakeside<br />
fine dining.<br />
Also, should the mountain be closed, as<br />
one of the major adventure regions of New<br />
Zealand, there is a multitude of things to do<br />
and experience, mountain biking, wine tours,<br />
bungee, jet boat the list is never-ending.<br />
J U N E 2 023// 81
NZ WINTER GAMES<br />
bigger and better!<br />
Winter Games NZ is the Southern<br />
Hemisphere’s biggest snow sports event,<br />
and we are thrilled to be back with our most<br />
extensive programme ever in 2023.<br />
The 2023 Winter Games NZ features the<br />
2023 FIS Park and Pipe Junior World<br />
Championships at Cardrona Alpine Resort, six<br />
FIS Australia New Zealand Cup (ANC) alpine<br />
ski races at Coronet Peak and The North Face<br />
Frontier freeride event at The Remarkables.<br />
In addition to this stacked schedule, we<br />
are stoked to announce that we will also be<br />
holding the inaugural International Obsidian<br />
Challenge.<br />
The world’s best freeskiers and snowboarders<br />
aged 15-18 will be battling it out for the<br />
prestigious FIS Junior World Champion titles<br />
in slopestyle, big air and halfpipe and the<br />
chance to secure a nation spot for the 2024<br />
Youth Olympic Winter Games to be held<br />
in Korea in January 2024. Don’t be fooled<br />
by the fact they are juniors, eligible athletes<br />
include reigning Junior World Champions and<br />
World Champions and 2022 Beijing Winter<br />
Olympians - the talent runs deep and we can’t<br />
wait to see them in action.<br />
Before we get into more exciting details about<br />
2023, let’s recap the 2022 Winter Games<br />
NZ, where after a brief hiatus we were back<br />
showcasing New Zealand snow sports to the<br />
world!<br />
Winter Games NZ 2022 kicked off with the<br />
high octane FIS ANC Super G alpine ski<br />
races at Coronet Peak. The high speed Super<br />
G courses were set on The Hurdle, with its<br />
steep pitch and natural rollers making for<br />
exciting racing. Enthusiastic spectators lined<br />
the course, with many there to get a glimpse<br />
of local ski racing superstars Alice Robinson<br />
and Willis Feasey competing against a mix of<br />
World Cup racers and some exciting up and<br />
coming talent.<br />
Two Giant Slalom races were next on the<br />
schedule, with over 80 athletes from 13 nations<br />
tackling The Hurdle. In the second Giant<br />
Slalom race, Queenstown’s Alice Robinson<br />
claimed the win in the women’s field, in front of<br />
a supportive home crowd.<br />
We then made the move across the Crown<br />
Range to Cardrona Alpine Resort. Despite the<br />
perfectly manicured slopestyle and halfpipe<br />
courses, the FIS ANC Freeski and <strong>Snow</strong>board<br />
events struck challenging weather.<br />
Cardrona STOMP Big Air presented by La Roche Posay<br />
Image by Winter Games NZ/Neil Kerr<br />
The athletes weren’t deterred, giving it<br />
everything they had in the qualification round<br />
for each event, which ultimately ended up<br />
determining the podium.<br />
Homegrown athlete’s Gustav Legnavsky<br />
(Halfpipe), Luca Harrington and Ruby Star<br />
Andrews (Slopestyle) all secured a gold<br />
medal finish in their respective disciplines to<br />
the delight of the home crowd.<br />
Chaeun Lee of Korea, who came into Winter<br />
Games NZ as the current <strong>Snow</strong>board Halfpipe<br />
Junior World Champion, claimed the top spot<br />
in the men’s snowboard halfpipe competition.<br />
Chaeun has since gone on to have an<br />
incredible 2023 season, and although he is<br />
still just 16 years of age, he was crowned the<br />
overall snowboard halfpipe World Champion<br />
in 2023.<br />
Next on the packed schedule was the much<br />
anticipated The North Face Frontier 2* and<br />
4* events at The Remarkables. Up first was<br />
The North Face Frontier 2*, where challenging<br />
snow conditions required the riders to bring<br />
their A Game. There was plenty of action, with<br />
epic runs and inevitable spills that come with<br />
Freeride competition.<br />
Right: The North Face Frontier<br />
Image by Winter Games NZ/Neil Kerr<br />
82// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ J U N E 2 023// 83
It was the perfect prelude to The North Face Frontier 4*, where the<br />
50-strong start list, which featured some of the world’s best skiers and<br />
snowboarders, threw down on the steep and exposed terrain of the Alta<br />
Chutes. 2022 Freeride World Champion, Kiwi Jess Hotter, lead the starstudded<br />
field.<br />
The North Face Frontier 4* has been a launching platform for many<br />
phenomenal Freeride athletes and a prime example of this in 2022 was<br />
Canadian Justine Dufour-Lapointe, who after a decorated moguls career,<br />
including two Winter Olympic medals and a World Championship title,<br />
made the switch to Freeride.<br />
Justine’s first foray into Freeride was The North Face Frontier 4* where<br />
she impressed the judges and spectators alike with her strong skiing and<br />
a huge backflip. Fast forward nine months and a successful season on<br />
the Freeride World Tour, Justine is the 2023 Freeride World Champion.<br />
The Cardrona STOMP Big Air presented by La Roche-Posay was the<br />
first of two STOMP events, with skiers and snowboarders throwing down<br />
on the massive Cardrona Big Air jump. With perfect weather conditions<br />
and a start list, featuring World Champions, World Cup, X Games and<br />
Winter Olympic Games medallists, the stage was set for a heavy-hitting<br />
competition.<br />
The 2022 Winter Games NZ wrapped up in style with the Cardrona<br />
STOMP Park Jam presented by La Roche-Posay. Vibes were high as<br />
the field of world-class freeskiers and snowboarders dropped into the<br />
purpose-built rail garden looking to showcase their most stylish and<br />
creative tricks.<br />
With the opportunity to hit the course plenty of times, we saw incredibly<br />
creative riding with the athletes pushing the boundaries and progression<br />
of their sport.<br />
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allows for progression and the<br />
long edge gives stability and grip<br />
at high speed.<br />
BLACK CROW//ATRIS<br />
RRP:$1,699.95<br />
Category: Big Mountain<br />
Lengths: 172.1, 178.4, 184.3,<br />
190.2cm<br />
Widths: 105mm<br />
Weight: 3600g<br />
The iconic Black Crows big<br />
mountain ski and refined for<br />
2023, gaining more accessibility<br />
and versatility for powder skiers.<br />
A stable and powerful ski which<br />
performs well at high speed.<br />
BLACK CROW//JUSTIS<br />
RRP:$1,799.95<br />
Category: All Terrain<br />
Lengths: 171.3, 177.4, 183.1,<br />
189.3cm<br />
Widths: 100mm<br />
Weight: 4400g/pair @183<br />
An all-terrain ski to charge over<br />
the crud with a double titanium<br />
plate for a committed ride, a front<br />
progressive rocker and light back<br />
rocker for control, and classic<br />
camber providing stability.<br />
BLACK CROW//MIRUS COR<br />
RRP:$1,699.95<br />
Category: Resort / Freestyle<br />
Lengths: 168.3, 173.2, 178.0,<br />
184.2cm<br />
Widths: 87mm<br />
Weight: 3600g/pair @178<br />
Designed to achieve an alliance<br />
between freestyle and on-piste<br />
skiing, the Mirus Cor has a<br />
long rocker and tail split for<br />
manoeuvrability and control,<br />
whilst carving and/or terrain<br />
freestyle skiing.<br />
DYNASTAR//SPEED SPEED 763<br />
RRP: $1499.00 (includes<br />
Look Konect NX 12<br />
binding)<br />
Category: Groomer<br />
Lengths: 158, 166, 174,<br />
182cm<br />
Widths: 124-75-109 cm<br />
Radius: 15m<br />
Weight: 3.9kg<br />
Engage the edge and feel<br />
the energy. The Speed 763<br />
balances a powerful edge<br />
with a smooth ride for a<br />
race inspired carve. The<br />
full-length power transfer<br />
of V-Tech design and<br />
vibration-absorbing ride<br />
of our Hybrid Core let you<br />
focus on your line. Embrace<br />
the fall line.<br />
DYNASTAR//E-PRO 90<br />
RRP:$1299.00 (ski only)<br />
Category: Freeride / Big<br />
Mountain (Women Specific)<br />
Lengths: 154, 162, 170 cm<br />
Widths: 119-89-109 mm<br />
Radius: 16m<br />
Weight: 3.3kg<br />
Both stable and energetic,<br />
the new E-PRO 90 is a<br />
versatile freeride ski. Its<br />
dimensions promise superb<br />
lift in deep snow and on<br />
more compact snow, its<br />
Hybrid Core construction<br />
with a Titanal plate<br />
withstands high-speed<br />
turns and committed<br />
landings, perfect for all<br />
outings in deep snow.<br />
DYNASTAR//E-LITE 8<br />
RRP:$1449.00 (includes Look NX<br />
12 Konect binding)<br />
Category: Groomers (Women’s<br />
Specific)<br />
Lengths: 149, 158, 166 cm<br />
Widths: 124-75-109 mm<br />
Radius: 13m<br />
Weight: 3.8kg<br />
Lean into your carving game. The<br />
Dynastar E-Lite 8 ski balances<br />
a powerful edge with a smooth<br />
ride that absorbs vibration and<br />
terrain variations for controlled<br />
carving by advanced skiers.<br />
V-Tech design transfers power<br />
to the edges and reduces swing<br />
weight for an agile feel.<br />
DYNASTAR//M-CROSS 88<br />
RRP: $1399.00 (ski only)<br />
Category: All Mountain<br />
Lengths: 171, 176, 184 cm<br />
Widths: 135-88-117 mm.<br />
Radius: 14m<br />
Weight: 3.6 kg<br />
Carve, explore and charge<br />
around the whole mountain.<br />
The Dynastar M-Cross 88<br />
skis let advanced and expert<br />
skiers turn up their skiing.<br />
They offer a wider platform<br />
for charging the piste while<br />
channeling the all-mountain<br />
feel of a freeride ski for<br />
exploring new terrain.<br />
J U N E 2 023// 91
ARMADA//<br />
SUMMIT COLLECTIVE/INFO@SUMMITCOLLECTIVE.CO.NZ// 03 4435410<br />
ROSSIGNOL//WWW.ROSSIGNOL.COM<br />
SUMMIT COLLECTIVE//INFO@SUMMITCOLLECTIVE.CO.NZ// 03 4435410<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FEATURED SKIS<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FEATURED SKIS<br />
ARMADA//DECLIVITY<br />
DECLIVITY<br />
102 TI<br />
RRP: $1,449.99<br />
Category: Freeride, All-<br />
Mountain<br />
Lengths: 172, 180, 188cm<br />
Width: 135 - 102 - 125<br />
Weight: 1950g (180)<br />
A hard-charging all-mtn<br />
ski, the Declivity 102Ti took<br />
the full-throttle thought<br />
process of the Declivity X<br />
and applied it to a versatile<br />
chassis, specifically built to<br />
conquer mixed conditions.<br />
AR100 Sidewall, Caruba<br />
Core, EST Freeride Rocker,<br />
Comp Series Base, 2.5 Impact<br />
Edge, Articulated Titanal<br />
Banding<br />
ARMADA//DECLIVITY<br />
DECLIVITY<br />
92 TI<br />
RRP: $1,349.99<br />
Category: All-Mountain<br />
Lengths:172, 180, 188cm<br />
Width: 132 - 92 - 118<br />
Weight: 1825g (180)<br />
Built off a platform that<br />
excels in any condition,<br />
the Declivity 92 Ti screams<br />
versatility from ripping<br />
high-speed groomers to<br />
charging chopped-up<br />
powder.<br />
AR100 Sidewall, Caruba<br />
Core, EST All Mountain<br />
Rocker, Comp Series Base,<br />
2.1 All Mountain Edge,<br />
Articulated Titanal Banding<br />
ARMADA//RELIANCE<br />
RELIANCE<br />
92 TI<br />
RRP: $1,349.99<br />
Category: All Mountain<br />
Lengths: 156, 164, 172cm<br />
Width: 130 - 92 - 116<br />
Weight: 1625g (164)<br />
When you don’t know<br />
what the mountain is going<br />
to throw your way, reach<br />
for the Reliance 92 Ti. Six<br />
inches of fresh overnight?<br />
It’s ready. Bulletproof<br />
groomers? No sweat.<br />
AR100 Sidewall, Caruba<br />
Core, EST All Mountain<br />
Rocker, Comp Series Base,<br />
2.1 All Mountain Edge,<br />
Articulated Titanal Banding<br />
ARMADA//STRANGER<br />
RRP: $1,349.99<br />
Category: All Mountain<br />
Everything<br />
Lengths: 172, 180cm<br />
Width: 138 - 100 - 120<br />
Weight: 2100g (180)<br />
A ski that you can take<br />
to the groomers on an<br />
average day with friends,<br />
carve hard, trick around<br />
on, laugh and have a good<br />
time.<br />
AR75 Sidewall, Poplar Ash<br />
Core, AR Freestyle Rocker,<br />
S7 Base, 2.2 Impact Edge,<br />
Springboard Tail, Edgeless<br />
Tip<br />
ROSSIGNOL//EXPERIENCE 82<br />
BASALT<br />
RRP: $ 1,499.99<br />
Category: All-Mountain<br />
Lengths: 160, 168, 176, 184cm<br />
Width: 127-82-115<br />
A lightweight build and the<br />
predictable edge control of full<br />
sidewall construction for all-resort<br />
skiing. A paulownia wood core<br />
reduces overall weight, while<br />
basalt layers absorb vibration for a<br />
smooth ride.<br />
A 100% ECO-DESIGNED RANGE.<br />
Topsheet-15%, Edges-100%,<br />
Base-30%<br />
ROSSIGNOL//EXPERIENCE<br />
86 BASALT<br />
RRP: $ 1,599.99<br />
Category: All-Mountain<br />
Lengths: 158, 167, 176, 185cm<br />
Width: 132-86-120<br />
An 86mm waist adds versatility<br />
and stability across changing<br />
snow conditions. The all trail<br />
sidecut and full sidewall<br />
construction provide a smooth<br />
turn initiation and a powerful<br />
edge through the entire turn.<br />
A 100% ECO-DESIGNED<br />
RANGE. Topsheet-15%,<br />
Edges-100%, Base-30%<br />
ROSSIGNOL//EXPERIENCE 82<br />
BASALT W<br />
RRP: $1,299.99<br />
Category: All-Mountain<br />
Lengths: 143, 151, 159cm<br />
Width: 127 - 82 - 115<br />
Explore more. An 82mm waist<br />
balances a quick feel edge to<br />
edge with the width to handle<br />
varied conditions. Paulownia<br />
Wood Core reduces weight by<br />
30% for enhanced agility and<br />
maneuverability<br />
A 100% ECO-DESIGNED RANGE.<br />
Topsheet-15%, Edges-100%,<br />
Base-30%<br />
ROSSIGNOL//EXPERIENCE<br />
86 BASALT W<br />
RRP: $1,399.99<br />
Category: All-Mountain<br />
Lengths: 148, 157, 166cm<br />
Width: 132-86-120<br />
An all Trail Sidecut delivers a<br />
responsive feel with quick edge<br />
engagement and powerful,<br />
consistent carving. Boost Flex<br />
profile is adapted to the needs<br />
of advanced skiers seeking<br />
more aggressive performance.<br />
A 100% ECO-DESIGNED<br />
RANGE. Topsheet-15%,<br />
Edges-100%, Base-30%<br />
92// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ J U N E 2 023// 93
LANGE//<br />
FOR STOCKISTS VISIT WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ/BRANDS/LANGE<br />
New RS<br />
New blue New blood<br />
Photo: Florian Monot<br />
The RS boots, designed for speed, embody the<br />
“racing” DNA of this now iconic brand. The<br />
distinctive Lange blue unites those who<br />
perpetuate the brand’s original passion for<br />
downhill racing. In 2022, the brand will<br />
be injecting new blood into its racing<br />
collection. Increasingly driven by bold<br />
innovation, it is reworking its colour<br />
range with this new blue which<br />
expresses the concentrated<br />
technology encapsulated in the<br />
heart of the new RS range.<br />
True<br />
Blue<br />
Team<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FEATURED BOOTS<br />
LANGE//RS 130<br />
RRP: $1,199.00<br />
Category: Groomers / Race<br />
Length: 24.0 – 31.5<br />
Width: L.V 97mm / M.V 100mm<br />
Weight: 2175 g<br />
Power and Precision. The new RS 130 is<br />
the result of our deep understanding of<br />
foot mechanics, fit, and ski boot behavior.<br />
Featuring our new, race-developed Dual<br />
Core construction, RS supplies incredible<br />
energy and flex control, becoming a<br />
natural extension of your body for total<br />
control through the turn. Alpine Sole.<br />
LANGE//XT3 115 W<br />
RRP: $1,299.00<br />
Category: Freeride / Tour<br />
Length: 22.0 – 27.5<br />
Width: L.V 97mm M.V 100mm<br />
Weight: 1607 g<br />
Engineered to go UP, built to ski DOWN.<br />
The all-new XT3 115 W is Freeride the<br />
way it was meant to be. Featuring our<br />
new Active Power V-Lock and Friction<br />
Free Hinge, XT3 offers effortless mobility<br />
and range-of-motion on the way up.<br />
Then lock it down for the descent and<br />
unleash the rock-solid power and<br />
precision of Lange’s innovative Dual<br />
Core construction. Purpose-built for<br />
the modern freeride skier, XT3 is a new<br />
benchmark for free touring. Dynafit<br />
Inserts, Grip Walk Sole.<br />
LANGE//LX LX 120 HV GW<br />
RRP: $899.00<br />
Category: Groomers / All Mountain<br />
Length: 24.0 – 31.5<br />
Width: HV 102mm<br />
Weight: 1860 g<br />
Lange’s legendary performance<br />
concentrated in a more comfortable,<br />
wider boot. Based on the “choose your<br />
fit” concept, the new LX 120 HV GW ski /<br />
all mountain boot now offers a new width<br />
of 102 mm at the front of the foot. If you<br />
have wide feet and are looking for high<br />
performance in a comfortable ski boot,<br />
then the LX is the right choice for you.<br />
Grip Walk Sole.<br />
LANGE//LX LX 95 W<br />
RRP: $899.00<br />
Category: Groomers / All Mountain<br />
Length: 22.0 – 27.5<br />
Width: HV 102mm<br />
Arguably the best-selling women’s boot<br />
on the market just got more comfortable<br />
with the addition of “Shin Control” and<br />
Thinsulate insulation for extra warmth.<br />
Grip Walk Sole. Dual Core.<br />
J U N E 2 023// 95
SPY OPTIC//WWW.SPYOPTIC.CO.NZ<br />
SPYOPTIC.CO.NZ/COLLECTIONS/SNOW<br />
ANON//WWW.ANONOPTICS.COM<br />
ANON//<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FEATURED CLOTHING<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FEATURED CLOTHING<br />
SPY//+ LIL GALACTIC MIPS®<br />
RRP:$219.00<br />
SPY//+ GALACTIC MIPS®<br />
RRP:$219.00<br />
Featuring out-of-this-world dome protection.<br />
GALACTIC MIPS® comes equipped with a durable ABS shell and is outfitted<br />
with the MIPS® Brain Protection System, removable washable earpads, and<br />
two removable brims so that you can customize your style.<br />
SPY//+ MARAUDER ELITE<br />
RRP:$449.00<br />
The low-profile lens delivers crystal<br />
clear distorition-free optics, while<br />
our revolutionary Happy lens<br />
tech boosts mood and alertness and<br />
enhances colour and contrast.<br />
SPY//+ LEGACY SE<br />
RRP:$379.00<br />
The compact Legacy SE packs all<br />
the punch of the Legacy; wide<br />
peripherals, a low-profile frame, and<br />
the ultra-quick Lock Steady 2 lens<br />
change system.<br />
ANON// WINDHAM WAVECEL<br />
HELMET<br />
RRP: $299.99<br />
Anon’s Windham WaveCel Helmet<br />
pairs everyday hardshell durability<br />
with the advanced impact protection<br />
of WaveCel technology. WaveCel is a<br />
collapsible cellular structure that lines<br />
the inside of the helmet.<br />
ANON//OSLO OSLO WAVECEL HELMET<br />
RRP: $349.99<br />
The Anon Oslo WaveCel Helmet pairs<br />
3D cellular protection with an in-mold<br />
construction featuring a lightweight<br />
shell with an EPS and WaveCel liner<br />
designed in a sleek, low-profile style.<br />
ANON//M4S MFI GOGGLE<br />
RRP: $429.99<br />
The Anon M4S Toric Goggles feature<br />
the same high-end performance of<br />
the M4 Goggles in a frame scaled<br />
for medium-sized faces. They offer<br />
a precise helmet-to-goggle fit with<br />
the wide field of view and enhanced<br />
peripheral vision of a toric lens a frame<br />
scaled to fit smaller faces.<br />
ANON//WM3 MFI GOGGLE<br />
RRP: $349.99<br />
The Anon WM3 Goggles bring the<br />
wide field of view and low-profile<br />
style of a modern cylindrical lens to a<br />
sleek new women’s-specific frame to fit<br />
smaller faces.<br />
96// S K I A N DSNOW.CO.NZ
MERRELL// WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ<br />
NEVADA SPORT// (03) 347 9566<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FEATURED CLOTHING<br />
Unmatched<br />
quality & design<br />
MERRELL //RIDGEVENT<br />
HYBRID JACKET MEN’S<br />
RRP: $399.00<br />
Blending the warmth of<br />
responsibily sourced goose down<br />
with synthetic fibres, featuring<br />
innovative BackVent technology<br />
for winter comfort and increased<br />
breathability for those moving<br />
adventures.<br />
MERRELL //MOAB ADVENTURE<br />
CHELSEA POLAR WATERPROOF MEN’S<br />
RRP: $299.00<br />
Get all-day comfort with the same outof-the-box<br />
fit you expect from Moab. This<br />
chelsea boot delivers a lifestyle look, an<br />
insulated layer for winter warmth, waterproof<br />
lining to stay dry, and traction you<br />
can trust.<br />
MERRELL //BRAVADA 2 THERMO<br />
MID WOMEN’S - TOBACCO<br />
RRP: $299.00<br />
Winter capable and weather ready. This<br />
women’s specific boot fits like a sneaker,<br />
waterproof lined and with 100 grams of<br />
insulation. Comfortable underfoot, made<br />
with recycled materials and has a sticky<br />
rubber sole for grip on wintery surfaces.<br />
MERRELL //TERRAIN INSULATED<br />
PARKA WOMEN’S - POTTERS CLAY<br />
RRP: $349.00<br />
Stay warm and comfortable in this styled<br />
longer length parka. Made with 100%<br />
recycled nylon outer fabric that beads<br />
off water with its DWR finish and filled<br />
with 160 grams of synthetic insulation to<br />
provide winter warmth even when wet.<br />
100% pure, natural wool<br />
indoor and outdoor slippers<br />
Ultimate comfort since 1993<br />
glerups.co.nz<br />
Find us online and at a stockist near you
SOUTHERN DIVIDE// WWW.SOUTHERNDIVIDE.CO.NZ<br />
SOUTHERN DIVIDE//<br />
SUPERDRY//WWW.SUPERDRY.CO.NZ<br />
SUPERDRY<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FEATURED CLOTHING<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FEATURED CLOTHING<br />
SOUTHERN DIVIDE //THE<br />
ORIGINAL BASE-LAYER 185gm<br />
2<br />
RRP: $139.00<br />
The original Southern Divide baselayer.<br />
A high performing long sleeve<br />
crewe made from 100% NZ Merino<br />
for maximum comfort on the coldest<br />
of days.<br />
*18.9 microns of pure softness<br />
*Streamline fit<br />
*Flatlock seam construction<br />
*Built in droptail.<br />
SOUTHERN DIVIDE //SHORT<br />
SLEEVE CREWE 250GM2<br />
RRP: $139.00<br />
Crafted with our intelligent layering<br />
system. Wear this 100% NZ Merino<br />
crewe as a mid-layer when the<br />
temperature drops, or base-layer on<br />
those warmer spring days.<br />
*Supersoft jersey knit<br />
*Streamline fit<br />
*Flatlock seam construction<br />
*Built in droptail.<br />
SOUTHERN DIVIDE //QUARTER-ZIP<br />
MID-LAYER 320GM2<br />
RRP: $229.00<br />
Engineered for maximum warmth, this<br />
is the perfect addition to our layering<br />
system. Built in thumb-loops, extended<br />
droptail and made from 100% NZ<br />
Merino.<br />
*19.1 microns with Ponte finish<br />
*No-snow-go collar<br />
*Streamline fit<br />
*Integrated windbreaker for zip<br />
SOUTHERN DIVIDE //THE<br />
ULTIMATE HOODIE 330GM2<br />
RRP: $299.00<br />
Constructed for mountains. This 100%<br />
NZ Merino Hoodie is the ultimate midlayer,<br />
designed to keep you warm when<br />
the temperature really plummets.<br />
*Internal Brushed Merino<br />
*2 x waist pockets<br />
*Streamline fit<br />
*Integrated windbreaker for zip<br />
*Built in droptail.<br />
SUPERDRY//ULTIMATE ULTIMATE RESCUE<br />
PANT<br />
RRP: $399.99<br />
This pant means business, offering 20K<br />
waterproof and breathability storm<br />
level protection. Made with recycled<br />
polyester fill and includes RECCO<br />
avalanche rescue system.<br />
SUPERDRY//SOFTSHELL SOFTSHELL SLALOM<br />
PANT<br />
RRP: $229.99<br />
A slim flared style snow pant with<br />
10k waterproof and breathability<br />
protection for moderate weather<br />
conditions. Features comfortable<br />
stretch construction, with a durable<br />
water repellent finish.<br />
SUPERDRY//MOTION PRO PUFFER<br />
RRP: $549.99<br />
A powerful puffer with 20k waterproof<br />
and breathability storm level<br />
protection, the perfect jacket for the<br />
mountain fashionistas who mean<br />
business on the black runs.<br />
SUPERDRY//ULTIMATE ULTIMATE RESCUE<br />
JACKET<br />
RRP: $599.99<br />
Slimline style with ultimate 20k<br />
waterproof and breathability<br />
protection, for the performance level<br />
skiers and snowboarders. Made with<br />
recycled polyester fill and includes<br />
RECCO avalanche rescue system.
c.<br />
ZEROFIT//WWW.ZEROFIT.COM.AU<br />
DYNACAST AUSTRALIA//ZEROFIT@DYNACAST.COM.AU// +61 8 8186 4008<br />
PATAGONIA//WWW.PATAGONIA.CO.NZ/SNOW<br />
PATAGONIA<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FEATURED CLOTHING<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FEATURED CLOTHING<br />
PAT_W23_PowderTown_<strong>Ski</strong>&SNow_PrintAd_FP_215x300mm.indd 1<br />
21/4/2023 10:40 am<br />
ZEROFIT//HEATRUB ULTIMATE<br />
LEGGINGS<br />
RRP:$129.95 (AUD)<br />
The Ultimate Leggings are made from<br />
the same material as the awardwinning<br />
Heatrub Ultimate baselayer.<br />
The leggings are comparable to fleece<br />
lined overtrousers, but with the added<br />
benefit of ease of movement.<br />
ZEROFIT//HEATRUB<br />
NECKWARMER<br />
RRP:$49.95 (AUD)<br />
The Neck Warmer uses the same ‘heat<br />
threads’ that feature in the awardwinning<br />
Ultimate baselayer, which<br />
has been independently proven to be<br />
five times warmer than a standard<br />
product.<br />
ZEROFIT//HEATRUB MOVE<br />
RRP:$109.95 (AUD)<br />
The Move features a 45%<br />
polypropylene inner / hollow<br />
polyester shell that work in tandem<br />
to regulate body temperature, so as<br />
you work harder for longer, you don’t<br />
overheat in the conditions.<br />
ZEROFIT//HEATRUB ULTIMATE<br />
RRP:$129.95 (AUD)<br />
The award-winning Heatrub Ultimate<br />
is best-in-class baselayer that uses<br />
enhanced Heat Threads inside the<br />
garment that are activated through<br />
movement, gently brushing against<br />
the skin to generate positive warmth<br />
instantly.<br />
PATAGONIA//POWDER POWDER TOWN<br />
BIBS<br />
RRP: $519.99<br />
Fully PFC-free, plus featured for<br />
versatility and mobility, with<br />
an articulated fit for freedom of<br />
movement.<br />
PATAGONIA//STORM SHIFT<br />
PANTS<br />
RRP: $629.99<br />
Fair Trade Certified sewn with a<br />
warm and wicking liner for lasting<br />
storm protection and comfort.<br />
PATAGONIA//STORM SHIFT<br />
JACKET<br />
RRP: $799.99<br />
Waterproof, windproof and made of<br />
fully PFC-free GORE-TEX material<br />
— meaning it does not contain<br />
perfluorinated chemicals.<br />
PATAGONIA//R1® AIR<br />
RRP: $519.99<br />
Lightweight, breathable and quickdrying<br />
technical fleece for highexertion.<br />
Made of 100% recycled<br />
polyester.
BLACK CROWS//CAMOXCAMOX $1,499.95<br />
FEATURES: All-terrain/freestyle ski with a double rocker, medium<br />
camber underfoot, slightly straight sidecut. W: 97mm, W: 3450g,<br />
Radius: 20m<br />
WWW.BLACK-CROWS.NZ<br />
DYNASTAR//763 (ALL MOUNTAIN) $1,599.00 (BINDING<br />
INCLUDED)<br />
FEATURES: S.C 130-82-112. R16m (179cm) Hybrid Paulownia / PU<br />
Core, Titanal Insert, 3D Profile Fiberglass sandwich, Full Sidewall.<br />
Lengths; 164-171-179-185cm<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
BLACK CROWS//SERPOSERPO $1,699.95<br />
FEATURES: On/off-piste carving ski, progressive front rocker, light<br />
rear rocker, classic camber, double titanal plate underfoot. W: 93mm,<br />
W: 3450g, Radius: 20m<br />
WWW.BLACK-CROWS.NZ<br />
DYNASTAR//E-LITE 3 (PISTE CARVE / WOMEN’S<br />
SPECIFIC) $949.00 (BINDING INCLUDED)<br />
FEATURES: S.C125-74-110. R12m (156cm) Poplar-Fiberglass Core,<br />
Cap construction, Xpress 11 Binding, Lengths;142-149-156-163cm<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
BLACK CROWS//JUSTIS<br />
$1,799.95<br />
FEATURES: A powerful all-terrain ski aimed at wider adventures.<br />
Front rocker, classic camber, double titanal plates, aluminium tail<br />
insert. W: 100mm, W: 3450g, Radius: 20m<br />
WWW.BLACK-CROWS.NZ<br />
DYNASTAR//M FREE 99 (PROGRESSIVE FREERIDE)<br />
$1,399.00 (SKI ONLY)<br />
FEATURES: S.C 128-99-120. R17m (179) Hybrid poplar / PU core,<br />
Fiberglass Torsion box, Sandwich, Full Sidewall.<br />
Lengths; 171-179-185cm.<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
BLACK CROWS//MIRUS COR SKIS $1,699.95<br />
FEATURES: High performance, freestyle/carving resort ski, double<br />
rocker with split tail, medium camber and mono titanal plate. W:<br />
87mm, W: 3600g, Radius: 13m<br />
WWW.BLACK-CROWS.NZ<br />
DYNASTAR//E-PRO 90 (FREERIDE / WOMEN SPECIFIC)<br />
$1,299.00 (SKI ONLY)<br />
FEATURES: S.C 119-89-109. R16m (170), Hybrid Poplar / PU core,<br />
Titanal Rocket Frame, Fiberglass Torsion Box, Sandwich, full<br />
Sidewall. Lengths; 154-162-170cm.<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
BLACK CROWS//ATRIS<br />
$1,699.95<br />
FEATURES: Versatile big mountain ski, double rocker, medium<br />
camber, slightly straight sidecut, progressive tip flotation and a firm<br />
flex. W: 105mm, W: 3600g, Radius: 19m<br />
WWW.BLACK-CROWS.NZ<br />
DYNASTAR//MENACE 90 (FREE SKI) $949.00 (SKI WITH LOOK NX<br />
10 BINDING)<br />
FEATURES: 118-90-108. R20m (170), Poplar Wood Core, Tip and Tail<br />
Rocker, Fiberglass Sandwich, Central Sidewall. Lengths; 130-140-150-<br />
160-170-180cm. WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//SKIS<br />
HEAD//ABSOLUT ABSOLUT JOY $1,199.00 inc binding<br />
FEATURES: Length: 143/148/153/158/163/168<br />
Radius: 13,2 @ Length 163 - Sidecut: 131/79/109 @ Length 163<br />
Plate: JOY SLR PRO Base<br />
Bindings: JOY 9 GW SLR BRAKE 85 [H] s.wh WWW.HEADSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
HEAD//KORE 93 $1,899.00 inc binding<br />
FEATURES: Length: 156/163/170/177/184/191<br />
radius: 16,4 @ Length 177 - Sidecut: 133/93/115 @ Length 177<br />
Binding: ATTACK_ 11 GW Brake 100 [A]<br />
WWW.HEADSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
HEAD//SUPERSHAPE E-RALLY $1,999.00 inc binding<br />
FEATURES: Length: 156/163/170/177<br />
Radius: 14,0 @ Length 170 - Sidecut: 132/78/114 @ Length 170<br />
Plate: Superflex PR Base low - Binding: PRD 12 GW BRAKE 85 [F]<br />
WWW.HEADSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
HEAD//SHAPE E-V8 $1,699.00 inc binding<br />
FEATURES: Length: 149/156/163/170/177<br />
Radius: 13,2 @ Length 170 - Sidecut: 130/75/112 @ Length 170<br />
Plate: All Mountain PR Base - Binding: PR 11 GW BRAKE 85 [G]<br />
WWW.HEADSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
DYNASTAR//E-4X4 .5 (ALL MOUNTAIN / WOMEN’S<br />
SPECIFIC) $1,299.00 (SKI WITH LOOK XPRESS W 11)<br />
FEATURES: S.C 130-82-11. R13m (164). Hybrid Paulownia Wood PU<br />
Core, Titanal Insert, Powerdrive 3 Sidewalls, 3D Profile, Basalt Fiber-<br />
Sandwich, Full Sidewall, Tip Rocker. Lengths; 156-164-171cm.<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
ARMADA//ARW ARW 94 $1,099.99<br />
FEATURES: An incredibly versatile all-mountain freestyle ski. Park,<br />
pipe, piste and even some pow. WWW.ARMADASKIS.COM<br />
ARMADA//ARV ARV 94 $1,099.99<br />
FEATURES: The ultimate all-rounder, there isn’t a part of the mountain<br />
this ski isn’t happy in. WWW.ARMADASKIS.COM<br />
ROSSIGNOL//HERO ELITE MT CA $1,599.99 SKI ONLY<br />
SPECS: Designed for passionate racing fans and on-trail skiers. An<br />
intuitive, accessible and solid carving tool.<br />
WWW.ROSSIGNOL.COM<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//SKIS<br />
HEAD//SUPER JOY $1,649.00 inc binding<br />
FEATURES: Length: 143/148/153/158/163/168<br />
Radius: 12,2 @ Length 163 - Sidecut: 129/75/108 @ Length 163<br />
Plate: JOY SLR PRO Base - Bindings: 100867<br />
WWW.HEADSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
ROSSIGNOL//RALLYBIRD RALLYBIRD 92 $1,099.99 SKI ONLY<br />
SPECS: Confidence-inspiring stability at speed and nimble when you<br />
want to relax, delivered in a versatile width.<br />
WWW.ROSSIGNOL.COM<br />
HEAD//TOTAL JOY $1,799.00 inc binding<br />
FEATURES: Length: 148/153/158/163/168<br />
Radius: 13,8 @ Length 163 - Sidecut: 134/85/113 @ Length 163<br />
Plate: JOY SLR PRO Base<br />
Bindings: JOY 11 GW SLR BRAKE 90 [H] d.rd WWW.HEADSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
ROSSIGNOL//SENDER SENDER FREE 110 $1,449.99 SKI ONLY<br />
SPECS: An athlete-driven, legacy-infused big mountain weapon to free<br />
your wildest ambitions.<br />
WWW.ROSSIGNOL.COM<br />
LINE//BLADE OPTIC $1,399.99<br />
FEATURES: Equipped with our Gas Pedal Metal Overdive tech,<br />
harness the power of an innovative layup of titanal to feel enhanced<br />
edge grip, stability, and control under your feet. WWW.LINESKIS.COM<br />
ROSSIGNOL//FORZA 70-V-TI $1,849.99 SKI ONLY<br />
SPECS: FORZA is carving in its purest form: Maximum angulation<br />
and no speed limits..<br />
WWW.ROSSIGNOL.COM<br />
K2//K2 MINDBENDER 89TI 104 $1,199.99<br />
FEATURES: All-Terrain Rocker profile & Titanal Y-Beam construction<br />
equals a ski with the precise edge hold needed to dominate hardpack<br />
yet wide enough for forays into the ungroomed. WWW K2SNOW.COM<br />
ROSSIGNOL//BLACK OPS 98 $1,299.99 SKI ONLY<br />
SPECS: Rail turns, slash pow, smear and pop off park jumps or sidehits.<br />
Unmatched versatility.<br />
WWW.ROSSIGNOL.COM<br />
ELAN//RIPSTICK 96 BLACK EDITION $1,999.00 inc Attack 14 binding<br />
FEATURES: 136/96/120mm. No sales blurb on this. Check out the<br />
reviews on youtube. WWW.ELANSKIS.COM<br />
ELAN//PLAYMAKER 91 $1,299.00<br />
FEATURES: 122/91/116mm. Goes full send by blending the<br />
personality of a freestyle twin and the trusted capabilities of a<br />
directional freeride ski. WWW.ELANSKIS.COM<br />
ELAN//RIPSTICK 96 MENS $1,899.00 inc Attack 14 binding<br />
FEATURES: 136/96/120mm. The ultimate freeride ski in all snow<br />
conditions. WWW.ELANSKIS.COM<br />
ELAN//WINGMAN 86CTI $1,799.00 inc Attack 14 binding<br />
FEATURES: 129/86/114mm. The 86CTi blends the finesse to tackle off<br />
piste terrain with powerful carving capability. WWW.ELANSKIS.COM<br />
ELAN//RIPSTICK 94 WOMENS $1,699.00 inc Attack 11 binding<br />
FEATURES: 136/94/110mm. The ladies adventure ski. Frontside,<br />
backside. You can trust this is the right choice, no matter the<br />
conditions. WWW.ELANSKIS.COM<br />
ELAN//WINGMAN 82TI $1,299.00 inc Attack 11 binding<br />
FEATURES: 129/82/112mm. Ideal for effortless all mountain carving<br />
and cruising. Push your limits without a punishing feel.<br />
WWW.ELANSKIS.COM<br />
ELAN//RIPSTICK 88 MENS $1,599.00 inc Attack 11 binding<br />
FEATURES: 130/88/105mm. The perfect combination of versatility,<br />
agility and performance for every condition the mountain can dish<br />
out. WWW.ELANSKIS.COM<br />
ELAN//WILDCAT 86CX $1,599.00 inc ELW 11 binding<br />
FEATURES: 128/86/114mm. The best of both worlds. Take on<br />
groomers at speed or the soft , deeper snow in the back bowls.<br />
WWW.ELANSKIS.COM<br />
ELAN//RIPSTICK 88 WOMENS $1,599.00 inc Attack 11 binding<br />
FEATURES: 130/88/105mm. For women looking for versatility and<br />
progression on groomers or the back bowls. WWW.ELANSKIS.COM<br />
ELAN//WILDCAT 82 C $1,299.00 inc ELW 9 binding<br />
FEATURES: 129/82/112mm. Nimble and quick. Carve on piste or<br />
smoothly navigate ungroomed snow with confidence.<br />
WWW.ELANSKIS.COM
HEAD//MENS FORMULA 120<br />
GW BOOT<br />
RRP:$999.00<br />
Flex tuning<br />
Cuff Alignment<br />
Extended Toe Box<br />
Rear support tuning<br />
Foam wedge<br />
WWW.HEADSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
K2//RECON 120 BOA<br />
RRP:$1,399.99<br />
BOA® ski boots? It’s the biggest boot<br />
fitting advancement in sixty years. A<br />
redesigned shell delivers better “wrap,”<br />
and more even pressure distribution<br />
across the foot.<br />
WWW.K2SNOW.COM<br />
K2//BFC<br />
RRP:$899.99<br />
Medium-flexing BFC 100 is ideal for<br />
skiers who prioritize comfort but still<br />
need a supportive boot that won’t hold<br />
them back.<br />
WWW.K2SNOW.COM<br />
ROSSIGNOL//ALL TRACK<br />
PRO 100 W<br />
RRP:$799.99<br />
Flex 100, Last 100mm<br />
Ideal for all-mountain resort skiing and<br />
hiking with the option for touring at the<br />
flick of a switch.<br />
WWW.ROSSIGNOL.COM<br />
ROSSIGNOL//TRACK 130<br />
GW<br />
RRP:$899.99<br />
Flex 130, Last 104mm<br />
A trustworthy workhorse. <strong>Ski</strong>ers<br />
looking for a generous last and all<br />
day comfort without sacrificing<br />
performance.<br />
WWW.ROSSIGNOL.COM<br />
ROSSIGNOL//PURE PRO 100 GW<br />
RRP:$899.99<br />
Flex 100, Last 100mm<br />
A fully thermoformable liner lets you<br />
customize the fit. Merino wool insulation<br />
for all-day warmth.<br />
WWW.ROSSIGNOL.COM<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FOOTWEAR<br />
HEAD//WOMENS<br />
FORMULA 95 GW BOOT<br />
RRP:$999.00<br />
Women’s double adjustable cuff<br />
Flex tuning<br />
Cuff Alignment<br />
Extended Toe Box<br />
Rear support tuning<br />
Foam wedge<br />
Interchangeable toe and heel<br />
WWW.HEADSNOW.CO.NZ<br />
LANGE//RX 120 GW<br />
RRP:$999.00<br />
Flex 120, Last MV100mm & LV 97mm.<br />
Dual Core, Polyurethane Shell / Cuff,<br />
Dual Screw Canting Dual 3-D Liner,<br />
Reactive Boost Tongue 45mm Velcro<br />
Power Strap.<br />
Sizes 24.0-31.5<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
SCARPA//4-QUATTRO XT<br />
SKI BOOT MENS<br />
RRP:$1,399.00<br />
Sensitivity, precision and sustainability<br />
come together in the 4-QUATTRO XT to<br />
make it the perfect all-day boot, both on<br />
and off piste. A low stand height and flex<br />
index of 130 provide incredible impulse<br />
transmission and performance, making this<br />
boot ideal for expert skiers.<br />
WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ<br />
LANGE//XT3 130<br />
RRP:$1,499.00<br />
Flex130, Last MV100mm & LV97mm.<br />
Polyether Shell / Lyfran Cuff, Friction<br />
Free Hinge, Active Power V Lock, 53° ROM.<br />
Dynafit Inserts, Gripwalk Sole.<br />
Sizes; 24.0-29.5<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
SCARPA//4-QUATTRO XT<br />
SKI BOOT WOMEN’S<br />
RRP:$1,399.00<br />
Sensitivity, precision and sustainability<br />
come together in the 4-QUATTRO XT<br />
to make it the perfect all-day boot, both<br />
on and off piste. A low stand height and<br />
flex index of 130 provide incredible impulse<br />
transmission and performance, making this<br />
boot ideal for expert skiers.<br />
WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ<br />
LANGE//LX LX 130 HV GW<br />
RRP:$999.00<br />
Flex 130, Last 102mm.Polyurethne<br />
Shell / Lyfran Cuff, External<br />
Screw Canting, 45mm Power Strap.<br />
Gripwalk® Sole.<br />
Sizes 24.0 – 31.5<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
LANGE//RX 90 WOMEN’S.<br />
RRP:$899.00<br />
Flex 90, Last MV100mm & LV97mm Last,<br />
Polyurethane Shell & Cuff. Dual Screw<br />
Canting. Dual 3-D Pro liner. Shin Control,<br />
Thinsulate® Insulation. Gripwalk® Sole.<br />
Sizes 22.0 - 27.5<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
LINE//BOOTIE 2.0<br />
RRP:$199.00<br />
Intuition foam footbeds make these<br />
insanely comfortable, and they will even<br />
mold to your feet! Paired with grippy<br />
Michelin outsoles and you’ve got the<br />
Apres Bootie 2.0<br />
WWW.LINESKIS.COM<br />
LANGE//LANGE RSJ 60<br />
(JUNIOR)<br />
RRP:$319.00<br />
Flex 60, Last, Junior Fit. Lyfran Shell &<br />
Cuff, Junior Liner, 30mm Power Strap, 4<br />
Alu Buckles, Mono Material Alpine Sole.<br />
Sizes 19.0 – 27.5<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
MERRELL//BRAVADA 2 THERMO DEMI<br />
WATERPROOF WOMEN’S<br />
RRP: $289.00 SPECS: Winter capable and weather<br />
ready. This women’s specific boot fits like a sneaker,<br />
waterproof lined,100grams of insulation and grippy<br />
on wintery surfaces.<br />
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ<br />
ROSSIGNOL//HI SPEED PRO<br />
130 CARBON MV GW<br />
RRP:$1,099.99<br />
Flex 130, Last 100mm<br />
On-trail performance personified. The<br />
ultimate in precision and total control<br />
through every turn.<br />
WWW.ROSSIGNOL.COM<br />
MERRELL//MOAB MOAB 3 PRIME MID<br />
WATERPROOF MEN’S<br />
RRP: $359.00 SPECS: Familiar Moab comfort featuring<br />
full grain leather upper for greater durability and a<br />
waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry.<br />
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//FOOTWEAR<br />
BEAR COTTAGE//POSSUM<br />
MERINO WOOL TREKKING<br />
SOCKS<br />
RRP: $38.00 SPECS: 50% Merino Wool,<br />
40% Possum Fur, 10% Nylon/Lycra<br />
Short calf length | Energy bands<br />
Terry loop pile foot to catch and retain<br />
the body heat escaping from your body.<br />
Specially designed heel and toe,<br />
eliminating any bulky fabric around the<br />
toe and heel areas.<br />
WWW.BEARCOTTAGE.CO.NZ<br />
MERRELL//HUT MOC 2 MEN’S - TRIPLE<br />
BLACK<br />
RRP: $169.00 SPECS: Super-light, ultra-comfy, 10%<br />
BLOOM algae in the foam and a nylon ripstop<br />
quilted upper, for adventures well beyond the hut.<br />
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ<br />
LENZ//HEAT SOCK 6.1<br />
RRP: $229.00 (Battery Pack<br />
Additional) SPECS: Polyamid 55%,<br />
Merino 35%, Elastane 10%, Full Toe<br />
Cap Heat Filament. Sizes 35-38,<br />
39-41, 42-44, 45-47.<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
SMARTWOOL//MENS MENS SKI<br />
ZERO CUSHION<br />
RRP: $55.00 SPECS: No cushion. All<br />
performance. Our thinnest Merino<br />
socks. Offering you the all day<br />
comfort you need to stay out longer.<br />
WWW.SMARTWOOL.CO.NZ<br />
SMARTWOOL//MENS MENS SKI<br />
TARGETED CUSHION<br />
RRP: $55.00 SPECS: Targeted<br />
cushioning and mesh zones<br />
placed for maximum comfort and<br />
breathability in any boot. Natural<br />
performance of Merino wool.<br />
WWW.SMARTWOOL.CO.NZ<br />
SMARTWOOL//MENS MENS SKI<br />
FULL CUSHION<br />
RRP: $60.00 SPECS: For maximum<br />
cushioning this pair of Merino<br />
wool socks help keep things<br />
warm, but breathable.<br />
WWW.SMARTWOOL.CO.NZ<br />
SMARTWOOL//WOMEN’S WOMEN’S<br />
SKI ZERO CUSHION PRINT<br />
RRP: $55.00 SPECS: The perfect<br />
mix of design and performance.<br />
Featuring our most advanced<br />
Indestructawool technology for<br />
enhanced durability.<br />
WWW.SMARTWOOL.CO.NZ<br />
SMARTWOOL//WOMEN’S WOMEN’S<br />
SKI FULL CUSHION<br />
RRP: $60.00 SPECS: Natural comfort<br />
and performance of Merino<br />
wool. Prioritising breathability,<br />
durability and fit.<br />
WWW.SMARTWOOL.CO.NZ<br />
SMARTWOOL//WOMEN’S WOMEN’S<br />
SNOWBOARD TARGETED<br />
CUSHION<br />
RRP: $55.00 SPECS: Featuring our<br />
most advanced Indestructawool<br />
technology for enhanced<br />
durability and 4 Degree elite<br />
fit system for an unmatched<br />
performance fit.<br />
WWW.SMARTWOOL.CO.NZ<br />
SMARTWOOL//KIDS SKI<br />
LIGHT CUSHION<br />
RRP: $40.00 SPECS: Keep your little<br />
ones warm and cosy all day on the<br />
slops. With the warmth of Merino<br />
wool, even the smallest skiers can<br />
go far and feel good.<br />
WWW.SMARTWOOL.CO.NZ<br />
SMARTWOOL//KIDS<br />
WINTER SPORT FULL<br />
CUSHION SKI DAY<br />
RRP: $40.00 SPECS: Merino socks<br />
featuring fill cushion and a flat knit<br />
toe seam for additional comfort.<br />
Keeping your little ones warm<br />
all day.<br />
WWW.SMARTWOOL.CO.NZ
ANON//OSLO OSLO WAVECEL<br />
RRP:$349.99 SPECS: Micro-adjustable fit,<br />
fleece-lined warmth, and a lightweight<br />
feel with the latest impact-absorbing safety<br />
technology. WWW.ANONOPTICS.COM<br />
ANON//WINDMAM WAVECEL<br />
RRP:$299.99 SPECS: Leading safety features,<br />
a durable hardshell design, and one-hand<br />
fit adjustability for distraction-free comfort.<br />
WWW.ANONOPTICS.COM<br />
ANON//MERAK WAVECEL<br />
RRP:$499.99 SPECS: The Merak WaveCel is<br />
fully loaded with 19 ventilation channels,<br />
WaveCel protection, and premium comfort<br />
and fit features in a durable hybrid molded<br />
construction. WWW.ANONOPTICS.COM<br />
PRET//PRET LYRIC X (WOMEN) CYNIC<br />
X (MEN)<br />
RRP:$299.00 SPECS: MIPS Equipped. In<br />
Mold Shell, Haelo Antimicrobial EPS, Direct<br />
Ventilation, Low profile / Light Weight.<br />
X-Static liner, Fidlock magnetic buckle, Audio<br />
ready. Detachable ear covers<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
SPY//GALATIC MIPS HELMET<br />
RRP: $219.00 SPECS: Featuring out-of-this-world<br />
dome protection. GALACTIC MIPS skate inspired<br />
helmet comes equipped with a durable ABS shell and<br />
is outfitted with the MIPS Brain Protection System,<br />
removable washable earpads, and two removable brims<br />
so that you can customize your style.<br />
WWW.SPYOPTIC.CO.NZ/COLLECTIONS/SNOW-HELMETS<br />
SPY//LIL<br />
GALATIC MIPS HELMET<br />
RRP: $219.00 SPECS: Featuring out-of-this-world dome<br />
protection for the young shredders. Lil GALACTIC<br />
MIPS comes equipped with a durable ABS shell and<br />
is outfitted with the MIPS Brain Protection System,<br />
removable washable earpads, and two removable brims<br />
so that you can customize your style.<br />
WWW.SPYOPTIC.CO.NZ/COLLECTIONS/SNOW-HELMETS<br />
ANON//RAIDER 3<br />
RRP:$149.99 SPECS: A classic shape equipped<br />
with everyday durability and hassle-free fit.<br />
WWW.ANONOPTICS.COM<br />
SMITH//MIPSMIPS<br />
RRP: $459.99 SPECS: MIPS and zonal<br />
Koroyd® safety innovations with a<br />
lightweight design for all-mountain use.<br />
An integrated visor simplifies goggle wear<br />
and offers the terrain-defining clarity of<br />
ChromaPop.<br />
WWW.SMITHOPTICS.COM<br />
PRET//FURY X (MEN) VISION X (WOMEN)<br />
RRP:$399.00 SPECS: MIPS Equipped. In Mold Shell,<br />
Optimized Impact Protection, Haelo Antimicrobial<br />
EPS, Adjustable Ventilation, Low profile / Light<br />
Weight. X-Static liner, Fidlock magnetic buckle,<br />
Audio ready. Detachable ear covers.<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
Merino made<br />
for more time<br />
on the mountain<br />
POC// FORNIX MIPS POW JJ<br />
RRP:$335.00 SPECS: Developed with freeride legend<br />
Jeremy Jones and in support of Protect Our Winters,<br />
the Fornix MIPS POW JJ gives ultimate protection in<br />
the backcountry.<br />
WWW.AU.POCSPORTS.COM<br />
POC//OBEX OBEX BC MIPS HEDVIG WESSEL ED<br />
RRP:$390.00 SPECS: With a design taken from one of<br />
Hedvig’s own paintings and inspired by Norway’s<br />
national mountain Stetind, the ski helmet balances<br />
both inspiration and protection.<br />
WWW.AU.POCSPORTS.COM<br />
www.smartwool.co.nz
SPY//RAIDER TOM WALLISCH<br />
RRP:$189.00 SPECS: For those long skiing or<br />
snowboarding adventures, it’s a snow goggle that<br />
combines huge vents and a free bonus lens to keep<br />
the fog-fighting air flowing while making sure you<br />
have the right lens to find the real treasures hidden<br />
in those mountains.<br />
WWW.SPYOPTIC.CO.NZ/COLLECTIONS/SNOW<br />
SPY//MARAUDER ELITE<br />
RRP:$449.00 SPECS: The low-profile lens delivers<br />
crystal clear distortion-free optics, while our<br />
revolutionary Happy lens tech boosts mood and<br />
alertness and enhances colour and contrast.<br />
WWW.SPYOPTIC.CO.NZ/COLLECTIONS/SNOW<br />
SPY//LEGACY VIPER WHITE<br />
RRP:$379.00 SPECS: With the lowest profile and widest<br />
peripheral view of any Spy goggle, the Legacy featured<br />
our world renowned Happy Lens tech and fingerprint<br />
free lock steady 2 quick change lens system. This is the<br />
snow goggle your eyes and helmet have been waiting for.<br />
WWW.SPYOPTIC.CO.NZ/COLLECTIONS/SNOW<br />
SPY//ACE COSMIC ATTACK<br />
RRP:$229.00 SPECS: The Quick Draw lens change<br />
system puts the midsize Ace at the top of the deck.<br />
In volatile conditions, you can easily slide a high<br />
visibility lens into place and quickly return to<br />
the action, without losing time to mother natures<br />
wicked ways.<br />
WWW.SPYOPTIC.CO.NZ/COLLECTIONS/SNOW<br />
SPY//CRUSHER ELITE<br />
RRP:$99.00 SPECS: Crush everything from steep<br />
chutes to stacked pillow lines with this feature<br />
packed goggle. High performance without the high<br />
price. Mid size with anti fog dual lens, anti scratch,<br />
triple layer face foam and 100% UV protection.<br />
WWW.SPYOPTIC.CO.NZ/COLLECTIONS/SNOW<br />
SPY//CRUSHER ELITE JR<br />
RRP:$99.00 SPECS: There are a lot of epic skiers<br />
and riders out there of smaller stature. For them,<br />
the Crusher Elite Jr fits just right. Packing SPY<br />
performance into a grom friendly frame that’s<br />
perfect for smaller faces.<br />
WWW.SPYOPTIC.CO.NZ/COLLECTIONS/SNOW<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//SKIS<br />
DRAGON//R1 R1 OTG<br />
RRP:$250.00 SPECS: Taking design inspiration from the RVX<br />
Mag OTG, the R1 is perfect for those seeking a simple, clean,<br />
& polished look. As the namesake implies, the R1 is OTG<br />
(Over The Glasses) compatible, featuring several premium<br />
features such as armoured venting, silicone strap backing,<br />
200% Super Anti-Fog coating, and of course, Dragon’s very<br />
own LUMALENS® Colour Optimised Technology.<br />
WWW.DRAGONALLIANCE.COM.AU/NZ/<br />
DRAGON//RVX RVX MAG OTG<br />
RRP:$400.00 (AUD) SPECS: Utilising the all-new, one-sided<br />
Swiftlock 2.0, combined with magnet lens anchors, the RVX<br />
MAG contains our most secure and quick lens changing<br />
system to date. Add in OTG compatibility, the expansive<br />
LUMALENS® Colour optimised technology, Dragon’s<br />
Patented Frameless Design, and you’ve got one heck of a pair<br />
of goggles.<br />
WWW.DRAGONALLIANCE.COM.AU/NZ/<br />
ANON//M4S<br />
RRP:$429.99 SPECS: Precise fit, maximum glare protection,<br />
and our sharpest, widest field of view in a frame scaled for<br />
smaller faces. WWW.ANONOPTICS.COM<br />
ANON//SYNC<br />
RRP:$279.99 SPECS: The terrain-defining clarity of PERCEIVE<br />
optics and the simplicity of M-Fusion for fast, easy lens<br />
changes. WWW.ANONOPTICS.COM<br />
ANON//WM3<br />
RRP:$349.99 SPECS: See more with the wide field of view of a<br />
modern cylindrical lens and easy swap MAGNA-TECH® lens<br />
system.WWW.ANONOPTICS.COM<br />
ANON//M3<br />
RRP:$349.99 SPECS: Low-profile cylindrical-style goggles<br />
featuring magnetic lens change simplicity and the glarecutting<br />
clarity of a polarized lens.. WWW.ANONOPTICS.COM<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//CLOTHING<br />
SUNSAVER //CLASSIC<br />
RRP:$129.00 SPECS: Our<br />
most popular power<br />
bank: 16,000mAh Battery,<br />
356-grams, LED Flashlight,<br />
1-Watt Solar Panel<br />
WWW.SUNSAVER.CO.NZ<br />
ANON//M4<br />
RRP:$429.99 SPECS: Precise helmet-to-goggle fit with our<br />
widest field of vision, highest contrast lenses, and the<br />
unprecedented versatility to easily switch between toric and<br />
cylindrical lenses. WWW.ANONOPTICS.COM<br />
ANON//TRACKER KIDS<br />
RRP:$89.99 SPECS: Youth-sized goggles with the bonus of<br />
MFI® compatibility for seamless face mask coverage.<br />
WWW.ANONOPTICS.COM<br />
SMITH//SQUAD SQUAD MAG<br />
RRP:$399.99 SPECS: Smith MAG interchangeable system<br />
features six magnetic contact points and two locking<br />
mechanisms, a simple push lever allows a quick Chromapop<br />
lens swap anytime, anywhere. WWW.SMITHOPTICS.COM<br />
SMITH//PURSUIT GLACIER PHOTOCHCOMIC<br />
RRP:$459.99 SPECS: Goggle-like coverage with the airflow<br />
and easy-to-wear feel of sunglasses that perform while you’re<br />
climbing and descending, with removable nose guard and<br />
magnetic side shields. WWW.SMITHOPTICS.COM<br />
THE CRAFTY WEKA//BARS & BITES<br />
RRP:75g Bars $4.95| 40g Bites $3.20 SPECS: Lovingly<br />
crafted in Christchurch, the Crafty Weka Bar makes<br />
100% delicious wholefoods bars with 0% nasties.<br />
Cradled in fully compostable packaging, this<br />
adventure-proof snack will keep you going all. day.<br />
long. WWW.CRAFTYWEKA.COM<br />
SUNSAVER //10K<br />
RRP:$99.00 SPECS:The ultimate<br />
lightweight power bank:<br />
10,000mAh Battery, 255-grams,<br />
USB Type-C, LED Flashlight,<br />
1-Watt Solar Panel<br />
WWW.SUNSAVER.CO.NZ<br />
POW//EMPRESS GORE-TEX MITT<br />
RRP:$199.99 SPECS: For unbeatable function<br />
and style look no further. Guaranteed to<br />
keep you dry. WWW.POWGLOVES.COM<br />
RAB/KHROMA FREERIDE GTX GLOVES<br />
RRP: $339.95 SPECS: The Khroma Freeride<br />
GTX Gloves offer the ultimate combination of<br />
warmth, dryness, protection and flexibility.<br />
WWW.OUTFITTERSSTORE.NZ<br />
POW//STEALTH GORE-TEX<br />
GLOVE<br />
RRP:$239.99 SPECS: All the best<br />
materials for the ultimate in warmth<br />
and countless days on the hill.<br />
WWW.POWGLOVES.COM<br />
LENZ//HEAT GLOVE 6.0 FINGER<br />
CAP MITTENS WOMEN<br />
RRP: $399.00 (Battery Pack Additional)<br />
SPECS: 52% Goat leather outer. Full<br />
Finger wrap heat element. Sizes XS (6),<br />
S (7), M (8), L (9)<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ<br />
OUTDOOR RESEARCH//ARETE ARETE II<br />
GORE-TEX GLOVES<br />
RRP: $189.99 SPECS: Modular insulated<br />
GORE-TEX® protection with warm and<br />
wicking removable merino wool liners.<br />
Updated with a leather palm, and complete<br />
with a waterproof insert.<br />
WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ<br />
BEAR COTTAGE//POSSUM FUR<br />
MERINO WOOL KNITWEAR<br />
GLOVES<br />
RRP: $29.00 SPECS: A unique and<br />
luxurious blend of NZ possum fur and<br />
pure NZ merino lambswool.<br />
35% Possum Fur, 55% Merino<br />
Lambswool, 10% Mulberry Silk.<br />
WWW.BEARCOTTAGE.CO.NZ<br />
LENZ//LITHIUM LITHIUM PACK RCB 1800<br />
RRP: $399.00 SPECS: Battery Pack (2 Batteries)<br />
Power Supply up to 20 hours compatible with<br />
Gloves, Socks and Mitts. Blue Tooth control and<br />
Manual operation. (1200 Battery Pack $349.00)<br />
WWW.BOBO.CO.NZ
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//CLOTHING<br />
SUPERDRY//SNOW SNOW TECH OVERSHIRT<br />
RRP: $209.99 SPECS: 10K breathability and<br />
waterproof, for lighter conditions. Durable<br />
water repellent.<br />
WWW.SUPERDRY.CO.NZ<br />
ICEBREAKER//OASIS BASE LAYER<br />
RRP: $199.99 SPECS: These best-sellers are designed to<br />
contour the body and naturally flex with you, allowing<br />
maximum comfort whatever the activity. Not too heavy,<br />
not too light, icebreaker’s versatile Oasis top is made with<br />
100% merino wool, making it your go-to natural fibre base<br />
layer for year-round layering and everyday comfort.<br />
WWW.ICEBREAKER.CO.NZ<br />
ICEBREAKER//ZONEKNIT BASE LAYER<br />
RRP: $249.99 SPECS: High-performance natural fibre base<br />
layers with engineered body mapping technology to regulate<br />
your body temperature and let your skin breathe naturally<br />
during high intensity activity. Combining 100% merino wool<br />
with strategically placed mesh panels for active ventilation,<br />
the ZoneKnit baselayers are the high-performing natural<br />
alternative to synthetics next to your skin.<br />
WWW.ICEBREAKER.CO.NZ<br />
MERRELL//SNOW SMILE CREW NECK<br />
WOMEN’S<br />
RRP: $139.00 SPECS: Let It <strong>Snow</strong>! Join the Merrell<br />
crew in this eye-catching <strong>Snow</strong> Smile fleece with<br />
original graphic artwork.<br />
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ<br />
MERRELL//SHERPA FULL ZIP MEN’S<br />
RRP: $229.00 SPECS: All about cozy comfort. Made<br />
with 100% recycled polyester and double sided<br />
brushed sherpa fleece with 2-way stretch.<br />
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ<br />
MERRELL//GEOTEX BALACLAVA MEN’S<br />
RRP: $159.00 SPECS: Up the intensity in a grid-back<br />
balaclava style pullover fleece that wicks moisture.<br />
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ<br />
SUPERDRY//FREERIDE JACKET<br />
RRP: $549.99 SPECS: 215K waterproof<br />
and breathability. Recycled polyester<br />
fill. Removable skirt. Durable water<br />
repellent.<br />
WWW.SUPERDRY.CO.NZ<br />
SUPERDRY//SNOW SNOW TECH HOOD<br />
RRP: $259.99 SPECS: 5K breathability. 8K waterproof.<br />
Durable water repellent.<br />
WWW.SUPERDRY.CO.NZ<br />
MERRELL//FALLON INSULATED RAIN SHELL<br />
WOMEN’S<br />
RRP: $349.00 SPECS: Take adventure by storm in our<br />
100% recycled nylon waterproof shell with 60grams of<br />
insulation.<br />
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ
BLACK DIAMOND //RECON STRETCH PRO SHELL<br />
RRP: $899.99 SPECS: A bomber 3-layer shell built to blend<br />
both the movement of four-way stretch with the ultimate<br />
protection of BD.dry while touring or ducking the rope, the<br />
Recon Stretch Pro Shell seals out moisture on storm days but<br />
keeps you dry on the skintrack without sacrificing durability.<br />
Reinforced forearms, elbows and hips add protection in<br />
high-wear areas.<br />
WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ<br />
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//CLOTHING<br />
OUTDOOR RESEARCH//SNOWCREW SNOWCREW JACKET<br />
RRP: $599.99 SPECS: Fully seam-taped waterproof, stretchy snow<br />
and ski jacket built with environmentally-friendly VerticalX ECO<br />
insulation.<br />
WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ<br />
BLACK DIAMOND //RECON LT SHELL<br />
RRP: $699.99 SPECS: A lightweight, durable workhorse shell, the Recon<br />
Stretch LT Shell features 3 layers of dependable protection. It combines<br />
our BD.dry waterproof/breathable solution with a lightweight ripstop<br />
fabric for a best-in-class combo of durability, protection, and minimal<br />
weight. Men’s and Women’s available.<br />
WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ<br />
RAB//KHROMA KINETIC JACKET<br />
RRP: $799.95 SPECS: Lightweight, stretchy and<br />
highly breathable, the Khroma Kinetic built with<br />
Proflex fabric offers the protection of a hardshell<br />
but with the comfort of a softshell.<br />
WWW.OUTFITTERSSTORE.NZ<br />
ICEBREAKER//SHELL+<br />
JACKET<br />
RRP: $999.99 SPECS: icebreaker’s<br />
first ever 100% natural outer<br />
layer that’s water repellent and<br />
wind resistant. Made entirely<br />
from natural fibres that are prestretched,<br />
woven together, and<br />
then released to create a super<br />
dense fabric, Shell+ is a natural<br />
alternative to synthetic jackets that<br />
helps keep you protected from the<br />
elements. WWW.ICEBREAKER.CO.NZ<br />
OUTDOOR RESEARCH//CARBIDE CARBIDE JACKET<br />
RRP: $499.99 SPECS: Winner of SKI <strong>Magazine</strong>’s Gear of<br />
the Year Award, this ride and ski jacket was built to<br />
adapt anywhere. This Pertex® waterproof shell is ideal<br />
for backcountry.<br />
WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ<br />
MERRELL//TERRAIN INSULATED VEST<br />
WOMEN’S<br />
RRP: $239.00 SPECS: Made with 100% recycled<br />
nylon outer fabric, DWR finish, with 160grams<br />
synthetic insulation to provide winter warmth.<br />
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ<br />
ICEBREAKER//MERINOLOFT JACKET<br />
RRP: $599.99 SPECS: The new natural alternative to the<br />
puffer jacket. Using natural merino wool insulation,<br />
MerinoLoft offers a high warmth-to-weight ratio to<br />
help keep you warm during cold-weather activities.<br />
New for AW23, MerinoLoft styles feature a Shell+ outer<br />
layer, offering a more natural water repellent and wind<br />
resistant puffer jacket. Best of all, it’s machine washable<br />
for easy care.<br />
WWW.ICEBREAKER.CO.NZ<br />
SUPERDRY//ULTIMATE ULTIMATE RESCUE JACKET<br />
RRP: $599.99 SPECS: 20K waterproof and breathability.<br />
Recycled polyester fill. RECCO avalanche rescue<br />
system.<br />
WWW.SUPERDRY.CO.NZ<br />
PATAGONIA//STORM SHIFT JACKET<br />
RRP: $799.99 SPECS: Waterproof, windproof and made<br />
of fully PFC-free GORE-TEX material — meaning it<br />
does not contain perfluorinated chemicals.<br />
WWW. PATAGONIA.CO.NZ<br />
MERRELL//TERRAIN INSULATED JACKET<br />
WOMEN’S<br />
RRP: $309.00 SPECS: Made with 100% recycled nylon outer<br />
fabric, DWR finish, with 160 grams synthetic insulation to<br />
provide winter warmth even when wet.<br />
WWW.MERRELL.CO.NZ
2023 BUYERS GUIDE//SKI&SNOW//CLOTHING<br />
SUPERDRY//ULTIMATE ULTIMATE RESCUE<br />
PANT<br />
RRP: $379.99 SPECS: 20K waterproof<br />
and breathability. Recycled polyester<br />
fill. RECCO avalanche rescue system.<br />
WWW.SUPERDRY.CO.NZ<br />
OUTDOOR RESEARCH//<br />
ARCHANGEL BIBS<br />
RRP: $1,199.99 SPECS: 3-layer<br />
GORE-TEX® Pro and full<br />
mobility with 3-layer GORE-<br />
TEX® Pro Stretch panels where<br />
you need them - on the knees,<br />
lower back and crotch gusset.<br />
Features include top to bottom<br />
zips, adjustable venting and cuff<br />
size adjustments to fit climbing<br />
or ski touring boots.<br />
WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ<br />
BLACK DIAMOND //RECON<br />
STRETCH BIBS<br />
RRP: $929.99 SPECS: A burly<br />
3-layer bib built for deep days in<br />
the backcountry, the Recon Stretch<br />
Pro Bib combines a breathable<br />
stretch racerback upper bib with a<br />
reinforced seat and knees for added<br />
protection in the backcountry.<br />
WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ<br />
BLACK DIAMOND //RECON LT PANTS<br />
RRP: $629.99 SPECS: A lightweight workhorse in the<br />
mountains, the Recon Stretch LT Pants are built to provide<br />
dependable protection for skiers and riders looking to<br />
hit either side of the rope. Featuring a slimmed down fit,<br />
the Recon Stretch LT Pants combine BD.dry waterproof/<br />
breathable solution with a lightweight ripstop fabric for a<br />
best-in-class three-layer combo of durability, protection, and<br />
minimal weight. Men’s and Women’s available.<br />
WWW.SOUTHERNAPPROACH.CO.NZ<br />
SUPERDRY//FREERIDE BIB<br />
PANT<br />
RRP: $449.99 SPECS: 15K<br />
waterproof and breathability,<br />
for moderate rain and snow.<br />
Recycled polyester fill.<br />
WWW.SUPERDRY.CO.NZ<br />
OUTDOOR RESEARCH//<br />
CARBIDE BIBS<br />
RRP: $499.99 SPECS: Winner of<br />
SKI <strong>Magazine</strong>’s Gear of the Year<br />
Award. Balancing protection and<br />
weight, this Pertex® waterproof<br />
shell is ideal for backcountry<br />
versatility; easy layering for cold<br />
backcountry tours and warm<br />
spring skiing.<br />
WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ<br />
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RAB//KHROMA KINETIC PANTS<br />
RRP: $699.95 SPECS: Built for ski<br />
touring and mountaineering when<br />
mobility, weight and breathability are<br />
the highest priority.<br />
WWW.OUTFITTERSSTORE.NZ<br />
Available to download on<br />
SUPERDRY//ULTIMATE<br />
ULTIMATE<br />
RESCUE PANT<br />
RRP: $399.99 SPECS: 20K<br />
waterproof and breathability.<br />
Recycled polyester fill. RECCO<br />
avalanche rescue system.<br />
WWW.SUPERDRY.CO.NZ<br />
SUPERDRY//SOFTSHELL<br />
SOFTSHELL<br />
SLALOM PANT<br />
RRP: $229.99 SPECS: 10K<br />
breathability and waterproof,<br />
for lighter conditions. Durable<br />
water repellent. Stretch fabric<br />
construction.<br />
WWW.SUPERDRY.CO.NZ<br />
OUTDOOR RESEARCH//<br />
SNOWCREW PANTS<br />
RRP: $349.99 SPECS: Fully<br />
seam-taped waterproof, stretchy<br />
snow and ski pants built with<br />
environmentally-friendly<br />
VerticalX ECO insulation.<br />
WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ<br />
PATAGONIA//STORM SHIFT<br />
PANTS RRP: $629.99 SPECS: Fair<br />
Trade Certified sewn with a<br />
warm and wicking liner for lasting<br />
storm protection and comfort.<br />
WWW. PATAGONIA.CO.NZ
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