Winter is fast approaching here in the southern hemisphere, which means ski season is nearly upon us. This doesn’t mean you should be packing away your sun cream because New Zealand has some of the best skiing anywhere in the world.
With dramatic scenery, fresh powder and buzzing resorts, a kiwi ski trip is an experience like no other. There aren’t many other places where you can carve down the slopes of a volcano in the morning, and by mid-afternoon be relaxing in an outdoor hot tub with a glass of champagne. Sounds good, right? The amazing thing is that, in terms of the snow sports experiences New Zealand offers, this barely scratches the surface.
Much of New Zealand’s best skiing is accessible only by helicopter. There are vast expanses of untouched powder which make the country a heli-ski mecca. If the idea of having a helicopter transport you to the top of a mountain in order for you to ski down it seems intimidating, don’t panic. In earnest, you don’t necessarily need to be an advanced skier or snowboarder in order to heli-ski. As long as you have some basic experience skiing off-piste, trips can be tailored to suit your skill level. From white-knuckle descents to lazily gliding down pristine snow fields, guides will ensure you’re never out of your comfort zone if that’s where you’re happy to stay.
Heli-skiing is an experience that’s unique and memorable. If you’re still not sure if it’s for you, this visual guide may help.
An early start and a big breakfast. Your carriage awaits.
This is the easy part. Relax and just enjoy the scenery.
Alight here.
Or here.
Maybe start off with some nice, gentle powder fields.
Or casually tackle a death-defying gully.
Either way, no rush.
Remember to take a lot of pictures.
And generally just relax.
Let the helicopter do the hard work.
Or don’t. It’s your trip.
You can even just go for the views.
But this could be some of the best skiing you’ve ever done.
And you don’t want to miss out.
Do it for the adrenaline.
Or for the challenge.
Or just to show off.
No waiting in line for the ski lift.
Giving you more time to enjoy the slopes.
And the solitude.
Leaving enough time to do it all again.
Have we managed to convince you? Get in touch with Touring Treasures to organise your winter adventure.
