CHILL Adventures - Winter 2013

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YO U TO

SNOW:2013 FRESH TRACKS

From Sledding to Slackcountry

DOODLING13 Space to Illustrate

CHILLY YARNS Stories from the Alps

We celebrate two new Ski Areas on the CHILL Season Pass

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Cover image: Skier: Alex Herbet, Broken River. Photo: Geoff Browne.

Haere Mai! Welcome!

Winter 2013, the official magazine of the Licence to CHILL multi-mountain ski and snowboard pass. The magazine is FREE for your enjoyment and inspiration to explore the mountains this winter. Thanks to the support of all the advertisers we are able to distribute this mag through snow sports shops in New Zealand and Australia. You’ll also find copies in awesome cafes in close proximity to the ski areas. Please support the advertisers and shout out for CHILL Adventures when you can.

Inside we profile 14 ski areas in the Southern Alps, inclusive of their key statistics, facilities and in-depth profiles with a spotlight on selected 2013 events and programmes. The ‘CHILL Pass’ is your ticket to ski and ride these ski areas, ranging from a premium Season Pass (accessing 13 ski areas) to shorter Anytime Passes, providing 5,7 and 10 days of access to selected mountain combinations. The flexibility of the CHILL Pass means there is a pass for everyone.

Use the magazine as a holiday planner, you’ll find all transport and travel services you’ll need inside. Accommodation and key service providers are regionalised and based around the ski resorts.

If you’re looking for a great read, we seek out fresh tracks and drop in with Mark Aldridge who skied all New Zealand ski areas in 2012. Ben Savill sheds light on Amuri Ski Club, the new and old. Gnomes Alpine Sports turns 30. Kevin Boekholt shares his snow stories, skiing globally as a heliski guide and Editor Editorial Assistants:

Advertising Art Direction & Design Concept Design

Stu Waddel Ray Singer, Martina Flueckiger, Ryan Charmley & Tory Crowder create@chillstudio.co.nz Amber Coubrough www.chillstudio.co.nz

Contributors Sam Masters, Joe Harrison, Shane Orchard, Ross

MacKay, Geoff Browne, Miek Deuninck, Amanda Power, Alex Brook, Margot Bohanon, Thomas Stephens, Sam Worsp, Tess Carney, Jeremy London and active club members.

operator. John Dunne brings something new to the old with a new Master’s Programme at Porters this season.

You’ll also find a comprehensive back country section with heli-skiing, snowsleding, snow safety courses and back/slack country trips. We cover a number of programmes and events for 2013, including CHILL’s breeding ground events and the famous club ski week experience.

New in 2013 is the doodling section, perfect if you’re waiting for a latecomer or stuck in a hut waiting for that weather window. You’ll find ‘to-do’ ideas for the season, ski records, creatures of the snow illustrations and mission plans.

We have plenty of great competitions, send hq@chillout.co.nz your feedback on the mag or mountains within it and go in the draw to win; return Interislander Ferry journey, Mighty Camper holiday, CHILL Passes and more. See pg 30-31.

For more on the CHILL Pass and all things winter during the season check out www.chillout.co.nz for weekly comps, events & news subscribe to our e.newsletter.

CHILL Magazines are hand crafted with love and may contain traces of nuts. What they don’t contain is nasties.

We print on Impress FSC Certified mixed pulp paper.

All our pretty pictures are printed using mineral oil free inks made from 100% renewable recourses.

Cheers Spectrum Print for caring about our environment too.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without permission from the publishers.

Copyright Castle Hill Investment & Leisure Ltd (CHILL). The views express in CHILL Adventures are those of the respective contributors and are not necessarily shared by the publication or its staff. CHILL Adventures is published bi-annually in summer and winter.

16 Bealey Ave, Christchurch P. 03 365 6530

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CHAM

97 GO DEEPER

LEVITATION PROFILE

MORE FLOAT, MANEUVERABILITY AND STABILITY TO SKI BETTER IN ALL CONDITIONS.

Tip

Reverse sidecut tip.

Maneuverability, quickness, easy directional changes in all snow conditions.

Rocker

Long rocker tip. Floatation and phenomenal ease of use in deep snow.

Underfoot

Classic side cut. Carves and turns well on groomed snow.

Classic camber. Delivers power and enhances turning and maneuverability on hard pack.

Pintail

Reverse side cut tail. Easier to Balance, turn and maintain direction for enhanced performance in all snow conditions

Flat camber tail

Photos © Dan Ferrer

Delivers stability and easier speed control in deep snow.

W W W . D Y N A S T A R . C O M

AURÉLIEN DUCROZ

Sales@bobo.co.nz

6.

Contents CHILL

CHILL Welcome

4

Mountains Ski Areas

8 - 12

Travel Times & Map

13

Rainbow

38

Need to Know

16

Mt Lyford

42 - 43

18

Hanmer Springs

Nutcracker & Rope Tows Newbie The CHILL Pass Range 2013

20 - 21

Temple Basin

47 55

Snow Travel

22

Craigieburn Valley

56 - 57

Snow Tours & Services

25

Broken River

58 - 59

Events

110 - 111

Mt Cheeseman

60 - 61

Contacts

112 - 114

Porters

62 - 63

Mt Olympus

64 - 65

Mt Dobson

78 - 79

Roundhill

80 - 81

Regions Kaikoura

Hanmer Springs

40 - 41 46

Christchurch

48 - 49

Selwyn

52 - 54

Methven

66 - 69

Ashburton

72 - 73

MacKenzie

76 - 77

Southern Lakes

84 - 85

Articles

Gnomes Alpine Sports: 30 Years On

14 - 15

One Season for All

36 - 37

Hands on Clubbie

44 - 45

Global Guiding & Riding

70 - 71

The Ski Week

104 - 105

A Breeding Ground

106 - 107

Master's Bucket List

108 - 109

Awakino Fox Peak Treble Cone Backcountry

82 83 86 - 87

Heli Skiing Operators

90 - 91

Heliskiing Down Under

92 - 93

Slednecking 101

94 - 95

Backcountry Snow Safety Fresh Tracks: Slack & Connect Valley of the Crow Doodle Pages

96 - 97 98 - 101 102 - 103

To-Do List

28 - 29

Season Collection & Up for Grabs

30 - 31

Creatures of the Snow

32 - 33

2013 Mission Planner

34 - 35

7.

速

Mirage RS Ski-Walk System

The new Mirage Ski-Walk mechanism has a more secure engagement which allows a full range of touring movement without compromising the stiffness needed for freeride performance.It also allows a wider range of canting adjustment improving adaptability for individual users.

Velcro Strap RS

The strap is now higher in the front which provides improved pressure sensitivity at the front of the shin during downhill.

Alpine Axial Technology

The tongue folds completely out to make it super easy to get in & out of. System allows for excellent volume adjustment and strong support on the downhill.

One boot delivering top end Ski Touring and Freeride performance.

Following the success of the Maestrale, our best selling Ski Boot ever, the Scarpa速 R&D department have been working to produce the Maestrale RS, a boot which has the flexibility of a Touring boot as well as the stiffness and sensitivity of a Freeride boot.

Scarpa Alpine Axial Technology, the new Zeus buckle design and the new Mono-Injected tongue work together to increase stiffness and distribute pressure more evenly to transfer movements of the foot and ankle more efficiently to the ski allowing greater edge to edge performance on freeride terrain.

The Maestrale RS also features TLT Quick Step, a Vibram sole, an intuition liner and is compatible with all Ski Touring and Freeride bindings; what more could you want?

ALPINE TOURING

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Ski Areas Broken River

Key

Awakino

Beginner Intermediate

10%

Advanced

30%

Pistes

60%

Main Lifts

2x Rope Tows

Learner Lifts

Top Elevation

Terrain Park

30 Bed Lodge, Kitchen, Showers & Toilets

Accommodation

Occasionally by

arrangement

Ski Hire

Night Skiing

4WD (2WD to bottom car park)

www.skiawakino.com

Kurow – 14km

Access

Website

Beginners Area Groomed 3x Rope Tows

Remarkably unchanged, just like the good ol’days.

1425m Canteen, Licenced

Slow down on wet and icy roads

2 x Catered Lodges, 1x Un-catered Lodge, Kitchens, Showers Yes Conditions Permitting

2WD with chains when required

A$70 S$50 U18 $35 (U11 & 70+ FREE!)

www.brokenriver.co.nz

SH73, Castle Hill

Location Draw Card

2x Rope Tows

1820m

A$50 S$40 C$25

Lessons

50%

1880m 1450m

Day Pass Rates

45%

1x Rope Tow

Bottom Elevation

On Mountain Food

5%

Communal BBQ on the sunny day lodge deck and cold lager on tap.

9.

Hanmer Springs

Fox Peak Craigieburn

10%

10%

60% 55%

30%

45%

Beginner & Intermediate Groomed (Plus some higher trails)

3x Rope Tows

Cafe, Licenced

60 Beds (incl Double Rooms) Catered Lodge, Showers, Licenced Bar Yes

Conditions Permitting (BYO headlamp & skins)

2WD with chains when required

A$72 S$50 Y$35 (U11 & 70+ FREE!)

www.craigieburn.co.nz

SH73, Castle Hill

Steep and challenging terrain accessible straight from the lift.

30% Beginner & Intermediate Groomed 1x Poma, 1x Rope Tow

3x Rope Tows

1811m 1310m

60%

1x Platter, 1x Beginners’

Tow

1769m

1990m

1460m

1410m

Snacks (Choc bars, drinks etc)

40 Bed Lodge, Kitchen, Showers

Can be arranged with a local

Conditions Permitting (Can be arranged with a local on full-moon)

2WD with chains when required

A$60 S $35 Y $10 (U10 FREE!) www.foxpeak.co.nz Fairlie, Sth Canterbury

Surprisingly large and rarely tracked.

1x Fixed Grip Rope Tow

Canteen 50 Bed Lodge, Kitchen, Showers Yes Yes 2WD with chains when required

A$60 S$50 Y$30 (U10 FREE with Adult) www.skihanmer.co.nz

Jack’s Pass, Hanmer Springs

Ski two days on a CHILL Pass and stay for FREE! Great family mountain.

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Ski Areas

Mt Cheeseman Mt Dobson 15%

25%

30%

50%

50%

40%

35%

25%

30%

Main Runs Groomed

Main Runs Groomed

Main Runs Groomed

2x T-bars

1x Chairlift, 1x T-bar

1x Rope Tow

1x Platter, 1x Rope Tow

2110m

1540m

1695m

Cockayne Cafe, Licenced

Cafe

68 Bed Catered Lodge, 38 Bed Self-Catered Lodge, Kitchens, Showers

Yes

Yes 2WD with chains when required

Yes

SH73, Castle Hill Family friendly, great wide open sunny faces, ski-in ski-out lodge.

A$75 65+ $37.5 S$57 Y$44 C$28 (U5 FREE!) www.mtdobson.co.nz SH8, Fairlie

Simply heaps of terrain for all abilities & the only chair lift on the CHILL Season Pass.

1x Rope Tow, 1x T-bar, 2x Platters

1x Fixed Grip

1750m 1420m Cafe

Base of mountain – Log Chalet Village Yes

2WD with chains when required

A$79 65+$39 S$59 Y$39 (U10 & 75+ FREE!) www.mtcheeseman.co.nz

1860m

Yes

Mt Lyford

Yes 2WD with chains when required

A$70 S$55 Y$35 C$20 (U6 & 70+ FREE!) www.mtlyford.co.nz SH70, Waiau

Sunny slopes and often the first mountain to

open.

11.

Mt Olympus

Porters

15%

30%

50%

30%

25%

35%

40%

55%

3x Rope Tows

Main Runs Groomed

20%

3x T-bars

Main Runs Groomed

1x Rope Tows

1875m 1425m

1x Platter, 1x Magic Carpet 1980m

Cafe, Licenced (Day visitors order hot lunch by 11am at ticket office)

1302m

36 Bed Catered Lodge, 14 Bed Self-Catered Bottom Hut, Showers

Cafe, Licenced

Yes

A$70 S$45 Y$35 (U10 FREE!) www.mtolympus.co.nz

Harper Road, Lake Coleridge

Espresso coffee, hot-tub, dress-up box and big mountain terrain.

1540m Yes Cafe

Yes

Yes

Yes

A$84 65+ $44 S$59 Y$44 (U7 & 75+ FREE!) www.skiporters.co.nz SH73, Castle Hill

Extensive grooming, easy access, family friendly and fantastic Cafe with wi-fi.

1x Fixed Grip Rope Tow

1758m

42 Bed Catered Lodge, Showers

2WD with chains when required

1x T-bar, 1x Intermediate Platter, 2x Fix Grip Rope Tows

Yes

Conditions permitting (Booking essential)

4WD with chains when required

Rainbow

Yes 2WD with chains when required

A$70 S$50 Y$35 (U7 FREE!) www.skirainbow.co.nz SH63, Nelson Lakes

New mountain on the

CHILL Pass. Sunny

faces and un-crowded slopes.

12.

Ski Areas

Round Hill

Treble Cone Temple Basin

45%

20%

25%

45%

45%

50%

Main Runs Groomed

35%

25%

Main Runs Groomed

3x Rope Tows

2x T-bars, 1x Rope Tow

1923m

1350m

Beginner to Intermediate

1260m

120 Beds, Catered & Self-Catered Lodge, Kitchen, Showers

Largest vertical drop on the CHILL Pass & terrain for the whole family.

Yes Cafe, Licenced Yes

Yes Yes Conditions Permitting 40-60 minute hike

www.roundhill.co.nz

1x Platter, 1x Magic Carpet

Canteen, plus hot lunches on order for day trippers.

Yes

Lilybank Road, Lake Tekapo

Yes

A$75 65+$37.5 S$55 Y$46 C$36 (U5 FREE!)

1x 6 Seater Chair 1x 4 Seater Chair

1960m

Two-Thumb Cafe, Licenced

2WD with chains when required

1493m

2x Rope Tows

2133m

10%

A$68 S$50 Y$37 C$24 (U10 FREE!)

Yes 2WD with chains when required

A$97($95 online), 65+ $54 S$74($73 online), C$49 ($48 online) (U5 & 70+ FREE!)

ww.templebasin.co.nz

www.treblecone.com

SH73, Arthurs Pass

Wanaka

Raw alpine environment & restaurant fare.

South Island’s largest ski area, and the longest vertical in the Wanaka & Queenstown region.

13.

60

Travel Times & Map

6 1

Nelson

Pg 38

Rainbow

63 6

Reefton 6

Kaikoura

Hanmer Springs

7

70

Greymouth Pg 56/57

Craigieburn

Hokitika

Pg 58/59

Broken River

Pg 64/65

Olympus

73

Springfield Sheffield 77 Darfield Methven

6 Mt Hutt

Mt Cook Village Haast

Arrowsmiths

8

6

Lake Ohau 8

8

79

Akaroa Ashburton

Geraldine Timaru 1

Methven Heliskiing Pg 90 Helipark Fox Peak

Dobson

83

Wanaka

Christchurch 75

1

Omarama

Pg 60/61 Pg 62/63

Porters

77

Fairlie

Tekapo Twizel

Pg 55

Temple Basin

Cheeseman

1

Pg 47

Hanmer

1

Mt Somers

80

Ohau

Cheviot

Castle Hill

Pg 80/81

Roundhill

7

Arthur’s Pass

Pg 42/43

Lyford

Pg83

Pg 78-79

Aoraki Mt Cook Heli Pg 90

82

Cromwell Queenstown

Oamaru Alexandra

Awakino

1

Pg 82

1

6

Treble Cone

Pg 86/87

Queenstown Snowcats Pg 90 Balclutha

94

Gore

1

Dunedin

Ski Areas.

Christchurch to:

km

hrs

Awakino

280

3.5 hrs

Broken River

110

1.5 hrs

Craigieburn

110

1.5 hrs

Christchurch to:

km

hrs

Fox Peak

195

2.5 hrs

Arthur's Pass

150

2 hrs

Hanmer Springs

155

2 hr

Castle Hill Village

100

1.25 hrs

Mt Cheeseman

105

1.5 hrs

Fairlie

180

2.25 hrs

Mt Dobson

206

2.5 hrs

Hanmer Springs

135

1.5 hrs

Mt Lyford

146

2 hr

Kaikoura

187

2.5 hrs

Mt Olympus

135

2 hrs

Methven

120

1.5 hrs

Porters

100

1.25 hrs

Springfield

70

0.75 hrs

Rainbow

370

4.75 hrs

St Arnaud

350

4 hrs

Roundhill

261

3 hrs

Tekapo

226

2.5 hrs

Temple Basin

155

2 hrs

Wanaka

425

5.5 hrs

Treble Cone

445

6 hrs

14.

30 years on.

Gnomes Alpine Sports, Darfield, is celebrating 30 years in business, remaining in family hands. Leith and Ally Kerr are now steering the ship, opening to the wider world and trading the latest gear and technology, while maintaining their passion for all things alpine, gnomes and all.

First Ski: Leith: Good question, my second were K2 LTP 185’s.

Ally: K2 Seth Morrison Pro Model (1999). I believe it was the first pro model ski ever made, they ripped!

Favourite Ski: Leith: Atomic Century rocker has made life easy and I’m looking forward to the Rossignol Savoury 7.

Ally: A hard one to answer as technology improves each season. The Rossignol Soul 7 is probably the best ski I have ever skied to date. I have two pairs coming this season, one for touring and one for charging.

How many garden Gnomes do you have?

Leith: None, but ‘Gnome’, my Dad (Ian Rhodes), used to have a few which hung around the store.

Once some customers borrowed one, we didn’t notice until we started receiving postcards from the gnome on its travels.

How did Gnomes start?

Leith: Ian and Jan Rhodes started Gnomes in 1983. Ian gained his nick name ‘Gnome’ as he is short and had a long beard. Gnome’s mate Alistair, nicknamed Big Al (tall guy), both used to work in ski rentals on the mountains and decided one day they would own their own ski rental stores. Look what happened, Gnomes and Big Al’s were formed.

Have you always been in Darfield?

Leith: Yes, we now have a rental store in Yaldhurst too. Gnomes has always been on the same site but not always in the same building, the original burnt

15.

down. An old church was relocated from around the corner which is still the main part of the shop today.

Ally: Darfield as a location is ideal, it has a great feel and connection to the mountains. Being 30 mins away from Porters means the Gnomes team can easily grab a few runs in between shifts.

When did you get involved?

Leith: As a family business I’ve been working here from the start, at 8 years old I was handing out ski poles and in 2005 we purchased Gnomes.

Ally: I first worked at Gnomes in 2001, I clocked up 10 hours a week servicing skis in between skiing all day every day. We had previously worked for large snow sport retailers around the world and had some ideas that we could implement when we purchased Gnomes. I have enjoyed every minute of it.

We know you are experts in boot fitting, with people travelling from other ends of the country to be fitted. What’s in a good boot fit?

Ally: Each pair of feet have to be treated as individual cases. The correct size is crucial in a boot fit along with selecting a shell that matches the foot’s profile. Adding an in-store manufactured custom footbed and wearing a technical sock add to the comfort and performance. Some skiers may require a custom or aftermarket liner and it’s not unusual to modify some boot shells.

We invested heavily in a computerised foot pressure analysis system which allows our ski boot technicians to see the customer’s foot and biomechanical make up in much more detail, this helps us to produce the ultimate ski boot fit.

Gnomes have always been known as a reliable place to hire quality ski gear. What's the advantage of hiring gear?

Leith: If you only ski a few times a year you don’t have to make an expensive outlay to enjoy the wonderful world of skiing and snowboarding with the latest equipment.

30 years on and who’d have thought your door’s open to the world 24/7. What do you like about doing business online?

Ally: Developing our first e-commerce site back in 2008 was the biggest single factor that reestablished Gnomes and put us firmly on the map.

We now have a large customer base across New Zealand and internationally that deal with us online and in store. Our second generation online store went live in December and we are experiencing fantastic results. It’s open 24/7 and great for browsing and ski retail therapy.

You’ve been a chiller for 10 years, which season rings the most bells?

Leith: 2010 opening day at Porters was epic! Snow all day long and I was uninjured, unfortunately I’ve had limited skiing over the last two seasons.

Ally: Every season has a handful of days that stand out. 2008 was by far the best for me because it snowed, I think I skied 21 powder days in a row. It doesn’t get better than that in New Zealand, except for this season..........

16.

Need to Know 1. Ski Areas. Obey all ski area signs and understand the Code of Responsibility*. If you are unsure about any protocol please ask the ski area staff.

2. The environment in which CHILL operates is ever changing and is something we must all respect. Primarily, the history of the ski areas and the raw nature of the great outdoors should be kept in high regard. Please take your rubbish with you - leave only footprints and your powder tracks!

3. CHILL strongly recommends wearing a helmet.

4

5. Rope Tows. The famous rope tows and nutcrackers can be difficult at first and take some getting used to. Check out our nut-cracker guide pg 18 and talk with the ski area staff if you are unsure, they are happy to assist.

If you are on the rope tow and see the rope off its pulley, or you accidentally knock one off, please attempt to put them back on.

We strongly recommend you have your own harness and nutcracker if you have a full or midweek CHILL Season Pass.

This is because there is only a limited supply available on the mountains and priority goes to those purchasing day passes.

We sell and hire harnesses and nutcrackers at CHILL HQ.

8

7

2 4. The Keas, our native alpine parrot, are very cheeky so if you see them around don’t leave your gear unattended. Remember - A fed kea is a dead kea, please do not feed them.

6. Snow Safety. If you travel outside of the ski area boundaries into the backcountry, please advise ski patrol of your intentions.

Enrol in a snow safety course if you plan to travel in the backcountry during the season, and always travel with others, a transceiver, shovel and probe (know how to use them).

See pg 96.

7. Travel. Some of the access roads are unsuitable for large campervans. Obey all ski area access road signs. If in doubt wait at the bottom and hitch a ride up.

Travel together in the mountains, if you’re unsure of driving up the access roads, grab a ride through www.snowpool.org.nz or stick your thumb out and hitch.

Don’t leave any valuables in your car while parked overnight on main State Highways, such as Highway 73 at the Temple Basin car park.

9

8. Chains. Always carry chains in your vehicle and fit them when advised on the mountain access roads.

9. The CHILL Pass is your ticket to ski and snowboard all the great mountains you see in this magazine.

Love Skiing and Mountains? Make it your career.

Study the Ski Patrol programme with TPP! Wanaka Campus, Starts February 2014

Dream it, Live it!

0800 800 411 • www.tpp.ac.nz

17.

SKIS * SNOWBOARDS * BINDINGS * BOOTS * POLES * HELMETS * GOGGLES * JACKETS * PANTS

The Ski and Snowboard Professionals

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR THE WINTER. Full Rental and Workshop at very competitive rates.

85 Tuam Street, Christchurch www.snowandsurf.co.nz E : snowandsurf@xtra.co.nz P : 366 7351

BUY ONLINE

18.

Nutcracker & Rope Tow

The rope tow is a lift system that can be a little tricky to master, once you do they’re a quick way skyward. With a few tips and a little perseverance you’ll soon be on your way, just remember, if you’re having trouble ask a local or a staff member.

If you’re learning to ski and are a little uneasy on your feet it may be best to build up your confidence on other lift systems before tackling the

1

newby

rope tow. For competent skiers and snowboarders it usually takes half a day to get the knack.

Awakino, Temple Basin, Craigieburn, Broken River, Mt Olympus and Fox Peak solely use rope tows. Hanmer Springs, Mt Lyford and Roundhill have a rope tow and other lift systems.

First things first, you need a little bit of kit to ride them, available

for purchase at CHILL HQ. 1/ A harness or a tow belt 2/ A ‘nutcracker’ 3/ A glove protector The concept is simple, your nutcracker is attached to your harness or belt by a short rope.

The nutcracker clamps onto the rope running up the hill and you are pulled up with it.

2

Wearing a glove protector, grab hold of the rope with your free hand. On icy days this can be a little tricky, if you find the rope keeps slipping you can use two hands to get you started or try leaning back on the rope to give you a little more purchase.

Prepare by holding the nutcracker in an open position with your hand that’s furthest from the rope if skiing, or with your uphill hand if snowboarding.

3

Here’s a few tips to ride the tow safely and easily.

Handy tips.

Emergencies. a trip cord (thin wire) runs alongside the tow, pull it to stop the tow. There is also a trip cord immediately after the dismounting area.

4

To get off the rope tow just let the nutcracker’s top handle go and it will unclamp. Once released from the tow, move away from the track.

A nutcracker ‘looks’ like a large ‘walnut’ cracker. It has two handles divided by a ‘clamping’ area and hinge.

Once travelling the same speed as the rope (this bit is key), swing the nutcracker under the rope and allow the free handle to loop back towards you. Hold the two handles together from the top (knuckles up) and remove your other hand from the rope.

Mel Parsons. Photos: Geoff Browne.

The harness/belt should take all your weight. If you are muscling your way up the hill try shortening the rope between your harness and nutcracker.

If the nutcracker starts opening in your hands, pull yourself up the rope with your spare hand (watch out for pulleys) to take tension off the nutcracker, readjust proceed as normal.

Beware of loose clothing and long hair.

The ropes are designed to run on the pulleys, put the rope back on if see you see it off a pulley.

Keep your hands clear of the pulleys, remember they look scarier than they are and nutcrackers are designed to run through them.

19.

Macpac quality now available on the slopes The Powder Pack In-store now

macpac.co.nz

20.

The CHILL Pass Range 2013 The Licence to CHILL or “CHILL Pass” is the ultimate ski pass and your gateway to up-to 13 of New Zealand’s best ski areas spanning the South Island’s Southern Alps. The flexibility to ski in the Southern Lakes, Waitaki, Mackenzie, Canterbury, Hurinui, Kaikoura and Nelson Lakes districts is what makes the CHILL Pass truly New Zealand’s ultimate multi-mountain ski and snowboard pass.

With a range of mountain options and lengths of passes, we are committed to value, flexibility and choice. ‘Anytime’ passes are great for those that only plan to ski a few days per year and the ’30-Day Consecutive’ pass is great for travelers who are only in the country for up to a month; The ultimate, CHILL ‘Season Passes’ are perfect for those who want to ski or ride as much as possible.

The shear diversity of terrain ensures that the pass is suitable for skiers and riders of all abilities and styles. From easily accessible learner’s slopes, to terrain parks and some of the most challenging lift accessed backcountry terrain, you can challenge yourself as much, or as little as you like.

All passes are available at special rates for families.

Additional general information, family information and family rates are available online at www.chillout.co.nz

CHILL 13 : Season Pass & 30 Day Consecutive Pass

Full Season Pass

Midweek Season Pass

Pre-Season

In-Season

Pre-Season

In-Season

$1130*

$1475

$640

$1145

Student/Senior

$865

$1100

$595

$865

Youth

$640

$865

$370

$620

Child

$510

$705

$295

$490

Adult

30 Day Consecutive Pass $750

Awakino • Broken River • Craigieburn Valley • Fox Peak • Hanmer Springs • Mt Cheeseman • Mt Dobson • Mt Lyford • Mt Olympus • Porters • Rainbow • Roundhill • Temple Basin

Prices ‘Preseason’ rates are valid until 30 May. ‘In Season’ rates displayed are valid from 1 June. Passes with only one rate listed are not subject to Preseason rates and prices listed are valid all season.

Loyal CHILLers *Note: A $60 loyalty discount is given to adult pass holders purchasing an adult Full Season CHILL13 or CHILL6 Pass who had any Licence to CHILL Pass last year. Discount does not apply to anytime or midweek passes and non-adult passes e.g. Student Passes.

Family Pass Make use of CHILL's prices and passes, available online, to get the whole family up into the mountains this Winter!

Check it out at www.chillout.co.nz.

21.

CHILL 6 : Season Pass

Full Season Pass

Midweek Season Pass

Pre-Season

In-Season

Pre-Season

In-Season

Adult

$1060*

$1310

$600

$1050

Student/Senior

$$810

$980

$560

$765

Youth

$600

$765

$345

$545

Child

$475

$620

$275

$435

Broken River • Craigieburn Valley • Mt Cheeseman • Mt Olympus • Porters • Temple Basin

CHILL 11 : 5,7 & 10 Day Anytime Pass

(includes 2 'buddy' days)

10 Day

(includes 1 'buddy' day)

7 Day

5 Day

Adult

$600

$425

$315

Student/Senior

$450

$325

$255

Youth

$345

$240

$215

Child

$270

$200

$160

Broken River • Craigieburn Valley • Fox Peak • Hanmer Springs • Mt Cheeseman • Mt Dobson • Mt Lyford • Mt Olympus • Porters • Roundhill • Temple Basin

CHILL 12 : 7 & 10 Day Anytime Pass

10 Day

Includes 2 Treble Cone Days. 'Buddy' Days are valid at CHILL 11 Mtns only.

7 Day

(includes 2 'buddy' days)

(includes 1 'buddy' day)

Adult

$645

$480

Student/Senior

$480

$365

Youth

$370

$275

Child

$295

$235

Broken River • Craigieburn Valley • Fox Peak • Hanmer Springs • Mt Cheeseman • Mt Dobson • Mt Lyford • Mt Olympus • Porters • Roundhill • Temple Basin • Treble Cone

Comprehensive pass information including Terms & Conditions is available online at www.chillout.co.nz.

TC Days are inclusive in the 7 or 10 days purchased, not additional.

Additional information can be obtained by contacting CHILL, email hq@chillout.co.nz or phone +64 3 365 6530.

22.

Snow Travel

New Zealand alpine highways are sealed and well-maintained during the winter, however, the ski area access roads are all unsealed and vary greatly. Large campervans aren't suitable for some of the smaller club field access roads, so check suitability before you leave.

Snow chains must be carried at all times, including 4WD vehicles.

Chains can be hired from Gnomes in Darfield, McEwings in Chch, Jaces Ski Hut in Methven and The Ski Shack in Fairlie. Chain Man in Chch has a full range to buy.

Rental Vehicles Touchdown Car Rentals Touchdown Car Rentals Christchurch offer the very latest model 4wd’s. Book on their website with the promo code “CHILL” and receive complimentary chains and ski rack for your ski holiday.

NZ Free Ph: 0800 736 849 AUS Free Ph: 1800 628 357 www.touchdowncarrental.co.nz New Zealand 4WD Hire Whether your 4WD rental is for going skiing, snowboarding, fishing or some sporting adventure, New Zealand 4WD Hire has the vehicle to get the job done. Book online now.

NZ Free Ph: 0800 929 333 E: info@newzealand4wdhire.co.nz

www.newzeland4wdhire.co.nz

Pegasus Rental Cars Off to the snow, let them help you with a vehicle, 75mins to Porters, open 24 hours (fees may apply), chains and racks FREE with all 4WD hires.

NZ Free Ph: 0800 354 504 E: info@rentalcars.co.nz www.rentalcars.co.nz

Methven Travel Shuttle services Christchurch Airport Methven & return - 3x daily during the Ski Season. Ski Bus 2x daily Methven - Mt Hutt. Special shuttles/charters available on request. Skierised rental cars.

NZ Free Ph: 0800 684 888 www.methventravel.co.nz

Bus services ex Chch Alpine Expeditions

0800 754 488

Hanmer Connection

0800 242 663

The Chain Man Specialist suppliers of snow and traction chains to suit all vehicles.

Comprehensive range and service.

Specialised free fitting service to ensure your safety to and from the mountains.

Unit 1, 1 Cass St, Christchurch P: +64 3 366 1528 E: sales@chainman.co.nz www.chainman.co.nz

Methven Travel

0800 684 888

West Coast Shuttles

+64 3 768 0028

Interislander Connecting us kiwis and visitors alike between NZ’s islands, the Interislander’s voyage is described as ‘one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world’. To bridge the gap contact Interislander.

NZ Free Ph: 0800 802 802 E: info@interislander.co.nz www.interislander.co.nz

Mt Lyford Express (Mt Lyford Lodge departs)

+64 27 6298 083

Mtn House (Arthurs Pass to Temple Basin)

+64 3 318 9258

Smylies Mtn Transport depart Springfield

+64 3 318 4740

Black Diamond Safaris depart Methven

+64 27 450 8283

Snowpool

Alpine Shuttles

+64 3 443 7966

Flying Bus

0800 359 754

snowpool.org.nz - fill a spare seat in your vehicle,or grab a lift.

Use lights in fog

Don’t just cross the Strait.

Cruise it.

CHC – Wanaka Intercity

+64 3 365 1113

Naked Bus

0900 62 533

Train (Chch to West coast) TranzAlpine Rail

0800 872 467

Township to Local Mtns

Wanaka to Treble Cone

The Hitches Corner Old West Coast Rd turnoff: Craigieburn Range Springfield: Craigieburn Range Admore/ Upton & McDougall St corner, Wanaka: Treble Cone

23.

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24.

25.

Snow Tours & Services Black Diamond Safaris Want to experience NZ Club Field skiing? Let BDS take you to the best powder spots in Canterbury. Single and multi-day guided adventures for all levels. Daily from Methven.

Transport available.

P: +64 27 450 8283 E: info@blackdiamondsafaris.co.nz www.blackdiamondsafaris.co.nz

Alpine Expeditions Offer tours, transport and charters to all Canterbury ski fields. They provide 4WD transport, equipment hire, lift access and superb local mountain expertise. Call to arrange your trip!

NZ Free Ph: 0800 75 44 88 E: alpine4x4@mcewings.com www.alpineexpeditions.co.nz NZ Snow Tours Grab a NZ Snow Tour Package & see some hidden secret of the South Island’s best ski areas. Personal tours through the CHILL ski areas. Great accommodation and guides to show you the local sweet spots. Book online!

P: +64 21 0293 5114 E: info@nzsnowtours.com www.nzsnowtours.com Northern Hemisphere Employment Smaller Earth Ski or ride some of North America’s biggest mountains and deepest powder all season long! Guaranteed job in one of Canada’s top ski resorts before you leave home.

P: +64 9 889 4101 E: newzealand@smallerearth.com www.smallerearth.com (apply online)

Christchurch Tours

Nationwide Campers

Kiwi Basecamp Tours Jump on Christchurch’s coolest little tour, see City Red Zone, awesome beaches, Pacific Ocean and Southern Alps from the hilltops and Port of Lyttlelton.

69 Bealey Ave NZ Free Ph: 0800 505 025 E: stay@kiwibasecamp.com www.kbctours.co.nz

Mighty Campers Campervans are super affordable & make freedom travel easy. Combine a CHILL Pass (5,7,10 or 30 Day) with a Mighty Camper for short or long term hire. Check out the travel page at www.chillout.co.nz or www.mightycampers.co.nz Nationwide Accommodation

YHA New Zealand With 45+ New Zealand hostels, carve up fresh powder or ski R&R Sport backcountry terrain and still chill With all the ski and snowboard by the fire back at one of our hardware and clothing you’ll need and 10 stores nationwide they’ll sort perfectly located snow hostels. your snow adventures. Queenstown, NZ Free Ph: 0800 278 299 E: book@yha.co.nz Christchurch, Dunedin, Wanaka, www.yha.co.nz Hamilton, Auckland, Albany, Kaikoura and Nelson and a dedicated snow loving web team www.rrsport.co.nz Nationwide Snow Sports

Macpac Since 1973 Macpac has been there for your outdoor adventure needs. Renowned quality in their newest range is perfect for an epic backcountry powder day or a relaxed session on the lifts.

23 Stores in NZ, 16 Stores in AUST. For store locations or to buy online www.macpac.co.nz

SMYLIES MOUNTAIN

TRANSPORT Porters Broken River Mt Cheeseman Craigieburn

1 to 100 passengers

Wearing out tyres for 20 years!

Drive to conditions.

www.smylies.co.nz P: +64 3 318 4740

26.

Photo Comp Capture the essence of CHILL in the mountains and WIN. The 2012 winners get a $50 CHILL Pass Voucher and CHILL Tshirt. To enter this season email hq@chillout.co.nz.

2012 winners. Lifestyle: Greg Sutherland. Mtn / Outdoor: Kim Tallott.

Snowboarder: Dean Foote. Skier: Tim Mackenzie.

Photo: Dean Foote.

Winner MTN Outdoor: Mt Olympus.

Winner Lifestyle: Julie Sutherland, Roundhill.

Photo: Tim Mackenzie.

Winner Snowboard: Mt Cheeseman.

27.

Ben Savill. Photo: Margot Bohanon.

Photo: S.Orchard.

Winner Ski: Tim Mackenzie (self-portrait).

Photo: Stephen Tuck.

Mt Olympus. Photo: Bree Loverich.

28.

To Do List The flexibility of the CHILL Pass encourages you to explore. It’s no secret that those who manage to ski every mountain on the pass in a season score a free T-Shirt. Tick off CHILL’s mountain highlights or add your own, not only will you score bragging rights amongst friends but you could win CHILL merchandise.

Simply send us a copy of your ‘been there done that’ list (this page) at the end of the season and you’re into win.

Hanmer Springs Broken River

Ski Allan’s Basin to the car park.

Night ski, don’t forget a head torch and clear lenses.

Have a Sauna (one of the benefits of staying the night).

Craigieburn Awakino Go there.

Have a drink at the

Kurow Pub. Nab a wallaby for dinner.

Name: Add two of your own (extra bonus points)!

Watch the K2 Big

Make the trip to Broken River and back.

Mountain bike the

St James and ski/ride in the same weekend (bonus point).

Mt Cheeseman

Mountain CHILL Series from the Wakamaru Day Lodge.

Pass and stay for free.

Attend the Rams Head Downhill.

Ski Middle Basin on a powder day.

Ski two days on a CHILL

Try the gourmet

cheese toasties.

Throw a curling stone on the ice rink.

Overnight in Snowline Lodge for first tracks.

Fox Peak

Have a blast at the Fox Trot.

Ski all the way to the Family Lodge.

Ski Tour to Mt Dobson (bonus point).

29.

Mt Dobson

Lap the chair lift.

Ski Sunny Run in

a T-Shirt.

Get a photo with a friendly staff member (bonus point if it’s Peter Foote).

Mt Lyford

Introduce a first-timer to skiing or riding.

Hire a log cabin.

Learn to ride the rope tow.

Mt Olympus

Porters

Ski/ride Solitude (it’s one of Porter’s secret stashes, shhh).

For beginners: First ski

experience on the skimat magic carpet (best in spring).

Ride a new feature in the Community Park.

Rainbow

Devour one of their famous dinners and desert.

Hike up Elevator and ski Bill’s Basin top to bottom.

Night Ski (bonus point for any trick applauded by those in the lodge).

Treble Cone

Spend school holidays

a storm that missed the bottom of the Island. in St Arnaud.

Waves (bonus point for powder day).

Roundhill

Stay in the newly renovated Top Hut, dress up and have a hot tub.

Book out the Bottom Hut

with a group of friends .

Road trip to Rainbow.

Score fresh snow from

Get air time in Frozen

Temple Basin

Conquer the rope tow (bonus point).

Sip schnapps in the Von Brown Hut.

Check out the action at the Rounhill Hill Climb.

Hike to Treble Cone Summit (2088m).

Use both your TC Days

on a CHILL 7 or 10 Day pass with TC option.

Get a photo with the TC Cat.

Score bragging rights amongst friends & win CHILL merchandise!

Email hq@chillout.co.nz your 'Do List'.

30.

Day

2013 Date

Mountain

1

Weather

Season Collection

Snow

CHILL factor

Comments

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Need more days!

Email hq@chillout.co.nz for a pdf.

UP FOR GR ABS!

WIN! Mighty Campervan, sleeps 2 people, 5 day hire returning same branch, plus 2x 3 Day 2013 CHILL passes.

WIN! A return Interislander ferry family pass (2 adults & kids) with vehicle departing from Wellington.

Email hq@chillout.co.nz with 3 mountains you’d ride. Campervan and passes can be upgraded. Drawn 15 July.

Email hq@chillout.co.nz with your South Island winter holiday destination. Drawn 15 July.

31.

Name: This winter I had an awesome day at ____________________ . The snow was (CHILL ski area)

______________, and I was feeling/looking ____________________ in my extra (adjective)

(adjective)

warm __________________ , __________________, and a __________________ (favourite piece of ski equipment)

(2nd favourite)

(adjective)

__________________ on my _____________. I went with my _______________ (least favourite)

(freestyle it...)

(relation to person)

_____________, who had been ______________ since ________________. (their first name)

(action)

(time)

Our first ________________ was ________________________, then on to the lifts. (action)

(anything goes)

We called the lift “________________” You stand at the bottom, and a ________________ (noun)

(noun)

takes you ________________ up the mountain. I _____________ this lift, but (adjective)

(present verb)

_______________ was ______________________________! (companion)

(adjective)

At the top of the mountain, ________________ warned us about __________. No worries. (adjective)

(e.g. a person, or…)

We headed for __________________ and __________________. _________________ (location)

(action)

(companion)

________________ to the bottom in about ________________ like a ________________ (amount of time)

(past verb)

(type of animal)

in a _____________, and I ________________. (a type of container)

(action)

We made it to the bottom, and we were both thoroughly________________. We had (adjective)

a________________ time, but next time I’m definitely wearing my ________________ (adjective)

(piece of equipment/forgotten item)

and doing more ______________________! (wrap up - make it count!)

Keep your screen clean

WIN! 2x 3 Day 2013 CHILL passes plus a $150 Pressie Card Voucher.

Email roadsafety@selwyn. govt.nz with three of Road Mum’s safety messages.

Email your CHILL Lib to hq@chillout.co.nz and WIN.

of Snow.

Email hq@chillout. co.nz a copy or ph oto of your creatures of snow illustration(s) and go in the draw to win a 2014 CHILL Pass. See pg 32-33

Photo Competition.

Email hq@chillout.co.nz your 2013 snow pics and do in the draw to win CHILL T's and other goodies.

Four divisions Lifestyle, Mountain, Ski & Snowboard.

See pg 26-27.

32.

t just Doodling isn' Snowed in? le you’re hi w e tiv ea cr for kids. Get indow. at weather w waiting for th t.co.nz) a ou ill ch q@ Send us (h terpieces o of your mas copy or phot for a aw dr e you in th and we’ll put ss!

Pa L IL H C to e 2014 Licenc

Custom made.

New Zealand made.

KINGSWOOD.

WWW.KINGSWOODKIS.COM

New topsheets out now.

34.

2013 Mission Planner Whether you’re a seasoned backcountry traveler, family with school aged-children, or just a bunch of mates keen for a ski and snowboard road trip, we’d thought we’d give your mission planning a kick start. Next time you’re procrastinating or talking a big game with friends why not commit your ideas to paper. Pick up your CHILL Pass and execute your plan. They can be as wild or sedate as you like, just be prepared to abandon backcountry travel plans if conditions aren’t suitable.

Transport

Email hq@chillout.co.nz for a pdf.

(Who’s driving, hitching points)

Route

(Maps required)

bivouac outdoor COMMITTED TO ADVENTURE

The Mission Destination

(Ski Areas, Peaks, Townships, Sights & Attractions)

Date:

The Crew:

Accommodation

(On Mountain, Local motel, bivvy bag)

35.

Catering

Logistics

Cost

Extras

(Lodge meals or BYO food and beverages)

(What to budget for)

(Delegate, who's doing what)

(Sound system, hot tubs)

Comments

(Weather window, alternative plans/options)

HI SK RE I

WWW.BIVOUAC.CO.NZ/SKIHIRE 03 341 8062

OM FR

AT TOWER JUNCTION, CHRISTCHURCH

5 $3

SKI/BOARD/SNOW SAFETY HIRE WINTER CLOTHING & GEAR OUTDOOR EXPERTS ON DEMAND

36.

One Season for All MARK ALDRIDGE

Early last year Mark Aldridge picked up his CHILL season pass and a new rope tow harness (which he swears by) and mentioned that he planned to ski each and every ski area in the country. Nearly 12 months on we caught up with Mark and asked him a few questions on his background and the season that was. Here’s his story:

The Season I started at Mt Hutt on the 20 June 2012 soon after it opened and finished at Rainbow on the 27 September. That’s a great ski area with really friendly staff and heaps of potential, especially if they open up another face with a rope tow….oops I didn’t say that.

The History – Mark Aldridge Last season I set myself the goal of skiing every ski area in New Zealand… makes me tired just thinking back! Looking back at my ski history, it has spanned many sticks and mountains. My first pair of skis were Rossignol ST’s 185cm and they grew in time to some 200’s, these days the shorter skis are much more user friendly and currently I ski on Volkl RTM 84 176’s. I just love them as an all mountain ski.

My intention was to ski the southern ski areas early, get them out of the way to make the logistics a bit easier later on. So the order achieved was: Mt Hutt, then Ohau, Remarkables, Coronet, Cardrona and Treble Cone, as a group. Then onto Porters and Mt Cheeseman. I had always wanted to stay at the Porters Ski club and so my son and I had a great night there – we were the only ones present, a one to one staff to customer ratio.

I first skied at Temple Basin when I was 15, staying in Arthur's Pass at the Outdoor Education Centre (good one Paddy) and subsequently became Club Captain of TB during varsity years. I grew up with long walks, (more on this later) rope tows and cheap red wine.

The Background Why did I do it, well I’ve really been enjoying my skiing the last few years and just wanted to ski all those places I had traveled past yet not quite made it up the road. That was the good thing about setting this goal, it made me do it, instead of thinking…one day!

Amuri (Hanmer Springs) was a very friendly club and I stayed at a great B&B in Hanmer before skiing Mt Lyford the following day. Fox Peak was next with an overnight in Kimbell before skiing Mt Dobson the next day, what great terrain. It had been a long time since I had visited Broken River (BR) and the inclinator was a neat experience up through the bush, very friendly people. From BR, a group of us walked over to Craigieburn and skied some runs there. Mt Olympus was next followed by the North Island trip made up of four fields, Turoa, Tukino (club field off the Desert Road, I definitely recommend the “cat” skiing), Whakapapa and Manganui near Stratford. Temple Basin, Awakino, Roundhill and Rainbow finished it all off in the South Island.

37.

Treble Cone.

Those Long Walks I had planned to travel to Omarama and onto Awakino and tick off Roundhill on the way back.

As it turned out, Roundhill had closed for the season when I was finishing off the North Island. After talking to the manager, Simon, I legged it up the hill, 5 kilometres of carrying skis and boots to the car park from the locked gate. I changed into ski boots and hiked up the T-bar in order to ski down.

I’ll definitely be back this season to check out the rope tow going up the Two Thumbs, that looks absolutely awesome.

What About Powder Well I missed some great powder days in the middle of the season but did have some great powder runs at Fox Peak and Craigeburn.

Best Pie & Coffee on Your Travels Definitely the steak and mushroom or the peach and passionfruit, both from the Sheffield Pie Shop.

Best coffee would have to be the Farm Barn at the top of the hill before you descend into Fairlie, or turn off to Fox Peak.

All-in-all, 23 ski areas took me three months to complete.

Looking Back All-in-all, 23 ski areas took me three months to complete. If I did it again I wouldn’t go overseas for two weeks during peak season and I definitely wouldn’t sprain my ankle (at home) towards the end of the adventure. Fortunately ski boots are pretty good support and your ankle doesn’t swell up too much if you don’t take your boots off till you get home!

The Weather Luckily the weather never turned me back, if it was open I skied it and if it wasn’t open e.g. Roundhill and Manganui I walked up and skied it anyway.

Finally, 2013 This season, it’s definitely another CHILL Pass and a focus on steep and deep.

Drive slow in ice and snow

38.

Rainbow

If you reside in Nelson, Tasman or Marlborough then you’re probably familiar with Rainbow Ski Area, but for those further south or abroad it often flies under the radar. It’s a seriously fun and friendly ski area, with facilities to match a medium commercial operation. There’s snowmaking, a tidy park, T-bar and plenty of grooming. The terrain caters to beginners and intermediates, but if rock drops are your thing, there’s plenty to keep you challenged.

Located in the St Arnaud Range, the ski area is approximately an hour and a half’s drive from Nelson or Blenheim and only 40 minutes from St Arnaud on the edge of the Nelson Lake’s National Park. You’ll be able to ascend the well maintained road to the top of the treeline and the base of the ski area, provided you carry chains and put them on if directed. There’s also a regular shuttle service from the bottom of the access road.

A series of pistes ensure plenty of easy trails down and great skiing when there’s been a dry spell.

Once you leave the pistes the terrain ranges from jibby features to wide open powder bowls. For those that wish to lap the park there’s a fixed grip rope tow to save you hiking.

The base area is where you’ll find all the action at the beginning and middle of the day. It’s home to the rental shop, car park and awesome Cafe. The delicious fare on offer is all made in house with fresh ingredients and plenty of organic goodies.

Accommodation St Arnaud is a beautiful spot and a weekend never seems to be long enough. CHILL’s pick is to book a bach or choose from backpacker, motel and lodge accommodation.

Event Profile – Annual Slush Challenge In spring Rainbow creates an ice-cooled lake.

Check List

For everyone: Go there, it’s one of the new mountains on the CHILL Season Pass.

For a great picture: Take the access tow to West Bowl and ski to the ridge for views of Nelson Lakes National Park and Lake Rotoiti below.

For all abilities: Jump in the park, there are mini features for groms and the ‘too old’ alike.

CHILL Tip Keep an eye on those weather maps, as the northern most ski area on the CHILL Pass, it often catches snow that misses mountains further south.

Participants blast across on an assortment of sliding devices and dressed in a diverse range of attire from wetsuits to Hawaiian shirts.

Programme Profile – Learner’s Lesson Rainbow has a great ski school with group and private lessons for all ages. The Learner’s Package is a great way to introduce someone to the sport. Simply show up with appropriate clothing and they’ll take care of the rest, ski/board rental, boots, day pass and a group lesson.

Terrain and Weather Tip Any westerly provides the best snow for Rainbow, while the sunny east facing slopes always make for enjoyable skiing no matter the snow conditions.

St Arnaud - Nelson Winter Accommodation Lakes National Park Nelson Lakes Motels Studio, 1 & 2 bedroom units and family cottages

Travers-Sabine Lodge Share twin/double & family rooms, log fire, drying room Ph: +64 3 5211 887 - E: info@nelsonlakes.co.nz - www.nelsonlakes.co.nz

39.

SEE THE

MIGHTY SIDE OF LIFE

... AND

WIN YOUR TRIP

BACK!

CAMPERS $ FROM

29

A DAY * Scan heoruet to finodre! m

0800 604 060 www.mightycampers.co.nz *Van price based on Lowball Campervan, 3+ day rate, for travel 01/07/13 - 29/09/2013 in New Zealand. Rates change weekly so contact our Reservations team for the best daily rate. Minimum hire applies, offer subject to availability and liability reduction cover is additional. Available for pick-up and drop-off from Christchurch and Queenstown branch locations. For full terms and conditions contact Mighty Cars & Campers. Win Your Trip Back - Once a month one customer with a CONFIRMED booking made in the prior month will be randomly selected to be the winner of “Win Your Trip Back”. For full details visit www.mightycampers.com. MT102-04/13.

40.

Kaikoura Kaikoura is known for its seafood and marine wildlife. Kaikoura translates from Maori meaning ‘meal of crayfish’. The township is located on a rocky peninsula, with impressive mountains dropping to the ocean.

There are numerous cafes and restaurants on the main street, and a stunning peninsula walkway that leads to the seal colony. World renowned surf breaks dot the coast, and although cold in winter, the quality of waves can break the chill. Mt Lyford is one hour drive on the Alpine Pacific Triangle.

Nearby Ski Areas • Mt Lyford: 1hr • Hanmer Springs: 2hrs Where to Stay Adelphi Lodge Adjacent to the sea front, they provide clean, warm & affordable accommodation in a cosy converted Historic Hotel.

See advert pg 43.

26 West East P: +64 3 319 5141 E: adelphilodge@xtra.co.nz www.adelphilodge.co.nz Don't Miss

Up close encounters with big waves, marine life and awesome sun rises.

Useful links: www.kaikoura.co.nz Ocean Adventures Kaikoura Kayaks Paddle with playful Seals and have chance encounters with Dolphins on our half day guided tours.

Kayak School, Hire, retail/online shop and Kayak fishing available.

Like us on facebook!

19 Killarney St NZ Free Ph: 0800 452 456 E: paddle@kaikourakayaks.co.nz www.kaikourakayaks.co.nz Encounter Kaikoura Tours to swim with or watch the dusky dolphins or view the massive albatross and other seabirds up close. Visit the beachfront Cafe with OZONE coffee, plus shop and gallery!

96 Esplanade NZ Free Ph: 0800 733 365 E: info@encounterkaikoura.co.nz www.encounterkaikoura.co.nz Mt Lyford Lodge A beautiful log cabin style lodge at the base of Mt Lyford, an amazing mountain retreat, the perfect place to stay while skiing in the area.

See advert pg 42.

P: +64 3 315 6446 E: enquires@mtlyfordlodge.co.nz www.mtlyfordlodge.co.nz

Kaikoura Kayaks.

Where to Eat Adelphi Bar & Restaurant – West End The Whaler – West End. Beach House Cafe My Lyford Alpine Resort Mt Lyford Alpine Resort is located at the base of the ski area access road. There are numerous log cabins dotted through the regenerating native bush forest. They are privately owned and some can be booked as a holiday rental. The jewel in the crown is Mt Lyford Lodge, at the Main Rd turn off. It’s a great place to stay and dine with an open fire and licenced bar.

Best Coffee Coffee Owl Mt Lyford Lodge Beachfront Cafe

CATCH THE DAY, STAY THE NIGHT

www.kaikoura.co.nz

41.

Mountain Bike Trails

Kowhai River Ride Starting at the Mt Fyffe carpark, this easy going ride follows the true left of the Kowhai River. It’s a mixture of 4WD and purposebuilt single track. The track departs the river and runs behind the golf course and Ocean Ridge subdivision parallel with the highway. It turns again crossing the highway into a prominent pine plantation for the final leg back to town.

Mt Fyffe Mt Fyffe is a never-ending granny ring hill climb. The track is a maintained 4WD track to the Mt Fyffe Hut and then an open trail to the summit (1600m ASL). It ‘s a solid climb with very little respite. The descent is not technical but very fast. Check your brakes have plenty of life in them first and be prepared for alpine conditions. You’ll find the Mt Fyffe carpark at the end of a stopbank running off Postmans Road (use a topo map on this one).

Mt Fyffe-Palmer Located at the end of Mt Fyffe Rd, the track initially climbs through farmland then turns into a technical single track through regenerative native bush. Once you reach a junction point in the forest turn left or right, it’s a loop that can be done either direction.

ra Encounter Kiakou

Mt Lyford

Kaikoura Jump Park This is a bit of a local secret, pop into R&R to find out more or have a poke around the pines on the south side of Scarborough St.

Shane Orchard

Half Moon Bay to Okiwi This is a classic Kaikoura ride.

20 minutes north of the town is the picturesque Half Moon Bay. Flanked by the Kaikoura Range and the Pacific Ocean there are plenty of exposed edges on the old forestry track. The grass in the middle of the track hides large rocks, hence sticking to the visible part of the track will no doubt save a buckled rim.

The ride is not technical but it is steep, so those that are suckers Simon Reeves. Photo: for punishment will love it.

R.Bathurst.

See www.licencetoride.co.nz for further details.

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Mt Lyford

Located on Highway 70 bang smack between Hanmer Springs and Kaikoura, Mt Lyford is a fun and friendly ski area for all abilities. The upper slopes bask in sunshine and in recent years it’s been consistently the first to open. It’s an uncrowded mountain and a favourite of locals and Christchurch residents alike. A fleet of groomers keep the pistes in great condition and wide open faces let you open up your riding on powder days.

A variety of lifts service the area, including a long fixed grip rope tow for first-timers. Two platters service either side of Paradise Valley and a T-bar opens up plenty of sunny groomed slopes. For those wanting a powder fix the Terako Rope Tow offers 450m of vertical drop. From the top of Mt Terako there’s a choice of an intermediary sunny slope which is a great pick in spring or the slightly more challenging shady side leading back to Paradise Valley.

If you make the mistake of leaving home without your skis never fear, the rental centre can kit you out.

The Terako Day Lodge and Chamois Cafe provide a great spot for lunch and oozes character with the exposed timber beams a focal point.

The access road ascends through native black beech and totora forest, providing amazing views over the Amuri Plains. A 2WD with chains and a competent driver is all that’s required, but if you’re unsure you can jump on board one of the low cost shuttles leaving Mt Lyford Lodge and Reserve (by the access gate).

Accommodation Mt Lyford’s accommodation options include the two nearby townships, Hanmer Springs and Kaikoura; alpine log chalet holiday homes available for hire in the Mt Lyford Village, located at the bottom of the access road; plus the Mt Lyford Lodge. One of New Zealand’s largest log buildings, it’s a cosy and character filled accommodation option with a great restaurant and bar. Mt Lyford Lodge is your stop for a flat white on the way up the hill.

Event Profile Mt Lyford Masters For the brave, Mt Lyford often hosts a surf to summit day, but one of the highlights of the events calendar is the ‘not too serious’ masters spring racing. If you fancy yourself going downhill quickly sign up on the day, there’s no charge and there’s plenty of divisions to compete in, the only prerequisite is age, open to all aged 30 years or more.

Mt Lyford Lodge Motel Rooms from $130 for 2 ppl. Dble Rooms from $90 for 2 ppl. Additional ppl $15/night. Bunk Beds $30 per person.

Mt Lyford Lodge, 10 Mt Lyford Forest Drive, Inland Kaikoura Rd, North Canterbury (11km from the Mt Lyford ski field).

1hr 45mins from Christchurch. Fully licensed restaurant/bar, open log fire and heated outdoor spa’s.

Drying room • Laundry • Central heating • Conference facilities • Wedding venue Ph: 64 3 3156446 • Fax: 64 3 3156116 • Website: www.mtlyfordlodge.co.nz • Email: enquiries@mtlyfordlodge.co.nz

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Check List For park riders: Jump the truck.

For surfers: Tick off the combo, surf Kaikoura in the morning and ski/ride Mt Lyford in the afternoon.

For beginners: Carve up the groomed slopes down Cloudy T-bar.

CHILL Tip Wax you skis and snowboards pre-season ready for an early opening, it always creeps up quicker than you expect.

Programme Profile – Never Evers If you’re looking to learn how to ski Mt Lyford is a great option as it’s perfect for car loads with a diverse mix of abilities. Let the experts off their leash and head for the learner’s slopes, you’ll no doubt find them with smiles on their faces at lunch. A ‘Never Evers’ learner’s package includes full lift pass, equipment rental and lesson.

Terrain and Weather Tip Mt Lyford is one of New Zealand’s sunniest ski areas and even though it’s the second northern most mountain on the CHILL pass, it receives plenty of snow. Watch out for early winter south/ south-easterly storms that head up the east coast and unload on Mt Lyford while missing many of the other mountains.

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Hands on Clubbie BEN SAVILL

Ben Savill is at home in the snow, waxing lyrical on youthful days at Amuri Ski Club and has had numerous roles in the ski industry. Today he is an active committee member at Amuri and owns Alpine Media specialising in ski area advertising.

Age: 39+ Favourite all time ski: 198 Duret Mono Ski, 207 K2 TNC Comps and most fat skis!!

Best NZ winter season: Too many. 1991, I was an alpine traction enhancement technician at Mt Hutt. Chain fitter, great job, meeting interesting people and skiing with a great crew. Snowmaker at Blackcomb 1997/1998 working by night, knowing where to ski the following day. In 2002 as Mountain Manager at Temple Basin we closed with a 5m base!

Club Member: Amuri Ski Club Member Since: Born into it! My grandfather was a founding member.

In my 20's I had a hiatus, and the last decade I’ve been back.

Favourite Run: Spring Favourite to valley and hiking back to South Col.

first ski school with Will ie Huber 1959

Best part about being a Member: Heritage and camaraderie.

Memories: As a kid, the day hut was like walking into a wild west saloon, the place was heaving with people having a great time; liquor, smoke, warming fire and classic 70’s North Canterbury après-ski. In the carpark there was a stock of Land Rovers, and in the valley the St James wild horses were on the loose. When the saloon closed, we’d (kids) have to clean up as part of our ski week chores.

There are some worthy traditions. Bacardi Cup, going since the ‘70s, the Cup was given to us by Ron Bacardi. Farmers Cup, a ski race against Mt Olympus, which has recently kicked off again and of late we’ve lost on the field but cleaned up après-ski! Until the late 80s we had the Amuri Ski Ball at the Heritage in Hanmer. Ask me about the record for driving from the hill to Hanmer, chains on!

There has been a significant boost in the activities of the club recently, with a new groomer, new beginners lift, new generator to warm the lodges and work on the access road and Poma. And all completed by active club members.

COLOUR TO INSPIRE Marmot’s New Snowsports collection In-store Now

Full range at marmotnz.co.nz

The club's history

The inception of the Amuri Ski Club was due as much to founding members as it was to the New Zealand Electricity Department who, in 1956 put in a road from Hanmer to Saint Arnaud to service a power line.

th cole old car park below the sou

Does this make the ski areas more accessible for families and first timers?

The Club has its own lodge facilities, ideal for ski in ski out. With the new lift, a fix grip surface lift from Canada, the ski area is a lot more accessible for learners. The poma lift has had extensive earth works on the tow line,

...the day hut was like walking into a wild west saloon which means the transition from learners to intermediate is easier, plus it’s improved the ski areas ability to hold and manage snow.

Over the past 5 years we’ve worked hard on the road, improving access to the ski area.

Hanmer Springs is also beginning to work in with the Club. The hot pools is a worthy visit after a weekend skiing. DOC’s involvement as owner of the St James is making the whole area more accessible for recreational purposes.

Opening of new shirtfront tow 1977 last gathering of founding members.

In Oct ‘56 Hugh Grigg, Hawdon Davidson, Dick Hiatt and others walked into the area in search of a suitable location for a ski area.

The current ski area basin was deemed to be the best location for snow, terrain and building an access road.

In Sept ‘57 a group of 20 residents tramped in to investigate the area. On reaching the top of Mt. Saint Patrick (top of ski area) they cracked open a bottle of Bordeaux Blanc giving rise to one of the ski area runs – Bordeaux Basin.

The clubs initial funds were from its 200 founding members purchasing 1800 £1 debentures. This enabled an access road to be bulldozed from the Electricity board’s road to the basin in the summer of ‘58. That autumn construction began on a rope tow and original day shelter.

In 1960 a bunk hut was constructed alongside the shelter and in 1962 a rope tow was installed running from the top of the main tow along the ridge to just below Mt St Patrick summit but has since been removed.

Through the 1970s it was a very active period for the club. A new learners area and access road were constructed. A new day hut was built and the accommodation lodge was completely rebuilt.

A new rope tow was installed into Bordeaux Basin – the Shirtfront Tow in ’77.

One of the club’s biggest developments occurred in 1981 with the construction of the 1km long Poma lift running up Bordeaux Basin. The lift was second hand and installed almost entirely by volunteers. All holes for the towers were dug by hand – no diggers, gelignite or machines on the mountain. A design engineer from the Poma Lift Company in France visited Amuri in 1982 and is quoted as saying, “What an amazing job a pack of amateurs have done.”

Through the 1990s the club suffered difficult times with several poor seasons and the change to the four term year. The club owes a huge debt to the committee and members for keeping the wheels on. Recent activity continues to reinvigorate the club and allow more people of all ages to enjoy Hanmer Springs Ski Area.

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Hanmer Springs Mountain Bike Trails Situated in a high country basin, Hanmer Springs is an alpine resort offering an array of outdoor adventures or revitalising relaxation. Two ski areas are close by and over 50km of walking and mountain biking tracks, plus jet boating, bungy jumping, and quad bikes. A good selection of cafes and restaurants for dining will top it all off, particularly after a soak at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools.

Jack in the Green Backpackers Friendly, comfortable backpackers with spacious doubles/twins/shares and ensuite rooms, all beds ready-made.

Comfy log fire, heaters in rooms.

Free tea, coffee & hot chocolate.

Great value for money!

3 Devon St P: +64 3 315 5111 E: stay@jackinthegreen.co.nz www.jackinthegreen.co.nz

Where to Stay

Snow Sports & Mtn Shuttle

Hanmer Springs Kakapo Lodge - YHA A two-storey purpose built hostel with a relaxed friendly atmosphere. Perfect for your ski retreat.

14 Amuri Ave P: +64 3 315 7472 E: staykakapo@xtra.co.nz www.kakapolodge.co.nz

Hanmer Adventure Centre This is your one stop adventure shop. Hire quad bikes to explore purpose-built tracks or grab a mountain bike. Ski hire available and hop on the shuttle to the ski area.

20 Conical Hill Rd NZ Free Ph: 0800 368 7386 www.hanmeradventure.co.nz

Greenacres Motel Hanmer Springs holiday accommodation with a quiet difference. Their motel comprises separate alpine style chalets and superior villas, all self-contained and fully equipped to make your stay a pleasure.

84 Conical Hill Rd NZ Free Ph: 0800 822 262 E: green.acresmotel@xtra.co.nz www.greenacresmotel.co.nz

Where to Eat Rustic Cafe & Tapas Bar Springs Deli Best Coffee The Powerhouse Cafe Nearby Ski Areas • Hanmer Springs: 35 mins • Mt Lyford: 1 hr Don’t Miss Culverden Bakery on route to Hanmer (great pies)

Hanmer Forest Trails

The trails in the Hanmer Forest are built by the Hanmer MTB Club and the best way to explore the network is to purchase one of their maps from the i-Site and Hanmer Adventure Centre.

Proceeds go back to the club.

The ever popular Dog Stream track and Woodland Walk are great beginner tracks and a perfect introduction to single track. Those looking for a challenge can spend a whole day exploring the trails.

The Joliffe Saddle, Yankee Zephyr and Detox are fantastic technical rides and can easily be connected into a 20-odd kilometre loop ride.

The trails are accessed from the township via a very short road ride. Be sure to take some warm clothes, food and water and respect all closures.

Waipara Valley Vineyard Trail – Stage One An 8km loop starting from Glenmark Reserve, north of Waipara Village. The trail passes Sherwood Estate and Greystone Wines. Stage two is planned to incorporate Mountford Vineyard and Black Estate.

See www.licencetoride.co.nz for further details.

River crossing, hill climbs, jumps & bumps, with spectacular scenery. An unforgettable 2 1/2 hours of fun!

Shooting & Transport to the St James Mountain Bike Track

47.

Hanmer Springs Hanmer Springs Ski Area, formerly known as Amuri, is a small club ski area with a tonne of personality and terrain suitable for all abilities. A long Poma lift and a rope tow access wide pistes or the ungroomed slopes. The Poma line has undergone extensive earthwork making accent easier in 2013.

Beginners are well catered to and a fixed grip rope tow provides the perfect stepping stone to the longer lifts. If you’re travelling or new to the sport they have on mountain gear rental and lessons for all abilities.

A cosy on mountain lodge provides the perfect spot for lunch if it’s too cold to sit on the sunny deck overlooking the slopes. The ski area is only a 17km drive on a well maintained gravel road from Hanmer Springs. Remember your togs for a relaxing soak at the hot pools on the way home.

Accommodation Self-catering backpacker accommodation is available on the mountain. Bring your own sleeping bags and dinner, there’s a full kitchen at your disposal so there’s no need to rough it. Ski in/ski out, it’s the best way to score first tracks and we haven’t even mentioned the best bit – ski two consecutive days on a CHILL Pass and stay for free!

Event Profile – Rams Head Downhill A fun and free event that levels the playing field between the big names and Jo Average. It’s a king/ queen of the hill multi-sport event that changes year to year. It tends to involve eating, drinking, tobogganing rope tows and straight lining the groomers. There are plenty of prizes, the overall winner not only receives the glory but a large leg of meat for their endeavours.

PIE.

SLIDE.

Programme Profile – Beginners package Hanmer’s new fixed grip rope tow is perfect for beginners. If you’re a competent skier or snowboarder why not drag friends along who have expressed an interest in hitting the slopes for the first time. Hanmer’s

TUCK.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Carparking

Day Lodge Accommodation Toilets Ski Patrol Ski & Board Hire Tickets & Shop

Check List For everyone: Enjoy a BBQ on the new deck.

Rope tow newbies: Make it to the top, Hanmer is great to learn to ride rope tows.

For the weekend: Come spring time do a bike and ski combo.

CHILL Tip Take them up on their ‘ski two days on a CHILL Pass stay for free offer’, it's awesome. Bring you own lunch.

beginner’s package includes boots, a sliding device, a 45minute group lesson and all day use of the learner's area.

Terrain and Weather Tip Situated on a north/north-east facing basin means the mountain receives plenty of sunshine. There are also south-east aspects so it can receive snow from many directions. Traditionally the best snowfall is received from south-east fronts. If you are equipped and proficient in side country exploration there are runs either side of the mountain to increase the vert of the mountain that lead back to the road and either a short walk up or a hitching spot down low.

RUN.

RAMSHEAD DOWNHILL 3-4 Aug skihanmer.co.nz

48.

Christchurch Christchurch is the gateway to the Southern Alps. It’s New Zealand’s second largest city and currently the fastest changing city on the globe. There are plenty of great snow sports stores, quality accommodation and eatery options and an amazing array of sites to feast your eyes on. Kiwi’s and International travellers alike, visiting Christchurch will open your mind and excite the imagination, just enough to head to the hills and make the most of the winter.

Where to Stay

Where to Eat Winnie Bagoes Gourmet pizza bar entertaining the city and suburbs for almost two decades! With New Zealand’s best pizza, pastas, salads, extensive beers & wines and regular entertainment.

2 Waterman Place, Ferrymead P: +64 3 376 4900

Copthorne Hotel Commodore The Commodore is an ideal place to start and finish your Mainland skiing experience. Located moments from Christchurch Airport, with free 24 hour shuttle service the Commodore is perfect.

Book online.

P: +64 3 358 8129 E: info@commodore.co.nz www.commodore.net.nz

Cnr Madras & Allen St, City Centre

Kiwi Base Camp Wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread, enjoyed in great company as you stay with Christchurch’s friendliest backpackers. Free airport collection, range of activities and affordable tours…boom.

69 Bealey Avenue, NZ Free Ph: 0800 505 025 E: stay@kiwibasecamp.com www.kiwibasecamp.com

Best Coffee

P: +64 3 366 6315 www.winniebagoes.co.nz Other Eatery Suggestions Smash Palace (burgers) Ace Wasabi King of Snake St Asaph St Kitchen Dux Dine Bamboozle

C4 Coffee HQ² C4 Coffee is a specialist local coffee roaster. They are the home of coffee beans, machines and all things caffeine.

Join them on the quest for espresso perfection!

278 Tuam Street NZ Free Ph: 0800 24 263 333 www.c4coffee.co.nz

Other Caffeine Suggestions Vic’s Cafe Blax Black Betty C1 Lume Bean Scene Addington Coffee Co. Snow Sports Bivouac Outdoor 100% NZ Owned & stock the best outdoor brands from around the world with a no-hassle returns/ exchanges policy. They are totally committed to adventure.

81 Clarence Street, Tower Junction P: +64 3 341 8062 E: shop@bivouac.co.nz www.bivouac.co.nz High Country Snow & Outdoors See them for a full range of ski equipment and clothing for the whole family. Open 7 days a week, parking at the door.

7D Mandeville St Riccarton P: +64 3 366 4166 E: infohigh-country@paradise.net.nz Snowride Sports From Skis to the most important accessory, they offer an unrivalled selection of products covering the full spectrum of skiing needs for every budget and for every ability level.

386 Lincoln Rd, Addington NZ Free Ph: 0800 7669 7433 E: info@snowride.co.nz www.snowride.co.nz

438 St Asaph Street, Christchurch Phone: 03 365 0907 Fax: 03 365 1462 Email: info@pyeelectrical.co.nz

CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH POWER

49.

SNOW AND SURF Get to SNOW AND SURF on Tuam Street for the best deals in town on snowboards, skis, boots and clothing and all accessories or check them out online.

85 Tuam Street, CBD P: +64 3 366 7351 E: snowandsurf@xtra.co.nz www.snowandsurf.co.nz Cheapskates Cheapskates newest store. The best brands and best service from snowboarders who love to ride.

They’ll set you up right and send you to the slopes in style.

Full hire service.

386 Lincoln Road, Addington P: +64 3 377 2942 E: aaron@cheapskates.co.nz www.cheapskates.co.nz Victoria Ski Sport Ski and snowboard shop in Christchurch. Equipment new and used, new clothing and accessories. Top brands at competitive prices plus professional expertise. Rental/hire all sizes, ages and abilities. Parking.

130 Victoria Street NZ Free Ph: 0800 754 7467 E: info@victoriaskisport.co.nz www.victoriaskisport.co.nz Ski and Snowboard Surgery For immaculate tunes and solid repairs, visit the major repair specialists. They've been here for years...even if they do have to move their workshop an awful lot.

New 2013: R&R Tower Junction HQ: 2 Expo Place Bromley P: +64 22 126 9161 www.boardsurgery.com

Rory @ Dobson Aug12

Mountain Bike Trails

Other Services Riccarton Clinic Suspected fractures? Strains?

Bruising? Riccarton Clinic is open every night until 8pm and welcomes walk-in patients suffering from the typical outcomes of a day pushing the limits.

6 Yaldhurst Rd, Church Corner P: +64 3 343 3661 info@riccartonclinic.co.nz www.riccartonclinic.co.nz Pye Electrical At Pye Electrical their friendly, professional Christchurch-based electricians can take care of all your commercial, industrial and residential electrical work.

438 St Asaph Street P: +64 3 365 0907 E: ricky@pyeelectrical.co.nz www.pyeelectrical.co.nz

McLeans Island An easy going and well-built 10km single track loop suitable for the whole family. Advanced riders will still have fun on this track and can extend the track with two additional loop tracks.

Bottle Lake Forest A working pine forest with an extensive quantity of easy going single track suitable for all abilities and levels of fitness.

The main entrance is on Waitikiri Drive, off Burwood Road.

Port Hills The trails on offer cater for intermediate riders through to elite downhillers. Ride for an hour or a day. The Anaconda Track descending into Taylors Mistake is open. Crocodile is a fun and snaking climb from Halswell Park Quarry with switchbacks joining Kennedy’s Bush Track and Summit Road. Flying Nun is a fast and flowing single track with jumps, paved bermed corners and technical sections. Victoria Park has a collection of downhill tracks that will test all abilities.

Don’t Miss

• Hourly • Full Day

• Long Term • Weddings

www.vintagepeddler.co.nz 03 365 6530 .16 Bealey Ave, CHCH.

Hire a bike from Vintage Peddler and check out the Central City.

See www.licencetoride.co.nz.

50.

Ollie Hunt, Broken River.

Alex Herbert, Broken River. Photo: G.Browne.

Photos: R.Bathurst.

51.

Sam Masters, Broken River. Photo: G.Browne.

Fox Peak, Lisa McGonigle. Photo: J.Harrison.

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Selwyn Sensational Selwyn’s nature playground stretches from the Pacific Ocean, across the Canterbury plains to the Main Divide of the Southern Alps.

Christchurch International Airport is conveniently located very close to the Great Alpine Highway 73. It’s a short drive to the mountains with rural and alpine towns dotted along the way.

Darfield Darfield, home for Gnomes Alpine Sports, is 45kms west of Christchurch on route to Methven and the Craigieburn Range.

Where to Eat Sheffield Bakery On your way back from the Mountains, stop off and feast on a variety of award winning pies and delicious home-styled Kiwi baking. Enjoy the bakehouse aromas and Jungle Coffee.

51 Great Alpine Highway P: +64 3 318 3876 E: sheffieldpieshop@xtra.co.nz www.greatalpinehighway.co.nz Other Eatery Suggestions Express Yourself Cafe Darfield Bakery (opp Gnomes) Best Coffee Darfield Bakery Useful Links www.skiselwynsix.co.nz

Snow Sports Gnomes Alpine Sports Gnomes Alpine Sports is located on Alpine Highway 73 en route to all Canterbury ski areas from Christchurch. Gnomes have an extensive ski & board rental fleet and a large retail department.

57 South Tce P: +64 3 318 8433 E: info@gnomes.co.nz www.gnomes.co.nz Don’t Miss

Last minute gear or chain hire from Gnomes. Grab a famous pie from Sheffield Pie Shop.

Springfield Springfield is a popular stopover for skiers and snowboarders heading to and from the Craigieburn Range. It’s on the Great Alpine Highway about 45 minutes from Christchurch.

Springfield Motel & Lodge Motel units & Lodge perfect for skiers/ groups, all amenities including free wireless, DVD library & drying room. You’ll be feeling right at home.

37 Tramway Rd P: +64 3 318 4018

E: stay@springfieldmotel-lodge.co.nz www.springfieldmotel-lodge.co.nz

Information Station 73 Cafe & Info Enjoy their fresh baked muffins & great coffee with magnificent views of the Torlesse Range! Perfect stop for ski area reports, road information, book accommodation.

Activities including daily Tranz Alpine Train.

Springfield Railway Station, King St P: +64 3 318 4000 E: info@springfieldinformation.co.nz www.springfieldinformation.co.nz

Best Coffee

Station 73 Cafe & Info Centre Yello Shack Cafe Where to Eat

Where to Stay Smylies Accommodation – YHA Looking after snow lovers for 27 years, shared rooms, private super king ensuite. Dinner, bed, breakfast. Book online.

See advert pg 63.

5653 West Coast Rd P: +64 3 318 4740 E: stay@smylies.co.nz www.smylies.co.nz

Station 73 Cafe & Info Centre The Springfield Cafe Yello Shack Cafe Sheffield bakery

Photo: J.Harrison.

SPRINGFIELD SERVICE CENTRE YOUR LAST STOP BEFORE THE ALPINE PASSES

FOOD/DRINKS/NZ POSTAL AGENT/SNOW CHAINS

WORKSHOP/24HR AA BREAKDOWN SERVICE

OPEN 7 DAYS 7:30AM - 7:00PM MAIN WEST COAST RD, SPRINGFIELD

PH +64 3 318 4845 • 027 249 4817

54.

Where to Stay Vehicle Services Springfield Service Centre Filling up: Springfield Service Centre is the last stop before the Craigieburn Range for fuel, food, snow chains and full breakdown service.

Main West Coast Rd P: +64 3 318 4845

Castle Hill Castle Hill Basin lies between the Torlesse and Craigieburn mountain ranges offering worldclass bouldering with distinctive limestone rock formations. Traces of 500-year old Maori charcoal drawings are hidden amongst the limestone outcrops of Castle Hill/Kura Tawahiti. Castle Hill Village is the nearest ‘off mountain’ accommodation to the local ski areas, a great spot to base yourself.

Where to Eat Flock Hill Lodge Restaurant & Bar is just 10 minutes drive away.

The Bealey Hotel is also open every night, with wholesome dinning, log fire, couches, adjacent bar and pool table.

Don’t Miss

Mountain biking in Spring (when tracks are open), the Hogs Back/Craigieburn when conditions permit.

Slow down on wet and icy roads

Flock Hill Lodge Flock Hill Lodge offers a superb selection of accommodation options, from spacious luxury motel units to a fully equipped backpacker lodge. See advert pg 59.

State Highway 73, Cass P: +64 3 318 8196 E: mail@flockhill.co.nz www.flockhill.co.nz The Bealey Hotel Warm & welcoming atmosphere, cosy log fire, hearty homestyle meals. Happy friendly people, classic alpine bar, idyllic views to wake up to. Family units, studio, Rooms in Moa Lodge.

See advert pg 55.

SH 73, 12km east of Arthur's Pass P: +64 3 318 9277 E: bealeyhotel@xtra.co.nz www.bealeyhotel.co.nz Local Ski Areas

• Mt Olympus:1.5 hrs from Darfield

1.25 hr from Springfield 1 hr from Castle Hill • Porters: 45 mins from Darfield

30 mins from Springfield

15 mins from Castle Hill • Craigieburn: 1 hr from Darfield

45 mins from Springfield

15 mins from Castle Hill • Mt Cheeseman:1 hr from Darfield

45 mins from Springfield

15 mins from Castle Hill • Broken River: 1 hr from Darfield

45mins from Springfield 15mins from Castle Hill Don’t Miss

TranzAlpine rail journey from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass.

Arthur's Pass Arthur’s Pass National Park is one of the most spectacular alpine environments in New Zealand. The park is teeming with walks, ranging from 10-minute waterfall treks to multi-day, high mountain adventures. The quaint beech forest village holds a store, Cafes, restaurants, bars and plenty of accommodation.

Nearby Ski Areas

Temple Basin - 5mins drive to car park, followed by a 50 minute hike up to the ski area! Drop gear at the goods lift, carry poles (+ torch) and wear solid footwear.

Don’t leave valuables in your vehicle. Alternatively, leave your car in the village and take the Trampers Shuttle (Mtn House).

Where to Stay The Sanctuary Cheap bunk room accommodation (8 bunks, sleeping bags required). Full kitchen and log burner in day room.

Rooms centrally heated. Unlimited hot water for bath and shower.

Drying room. Bookings essential.

Main Rd P: +64 3 942 2230 E: bill@thesanctuary.co.nz www.thesanctuary.co.nz Where to Eat

Arthur's Chalet - Fully Licenced Restaurant & Bar The Bealey Hotel (best coffee) Arthur’s Pass Store and Cafe (petrol/diesel available) The Wobbly Kea

Springfield Information Buro & Station73 Café

at the Springfield Railway Station. Open Daily from 8.30am Enjoy our fresh baked muffins, scones, slices, scrummy gourmet pies over a coffee, tea and assorted refreshments. Pick up skifield information or book accommodation & activities in the region including the daily Tranz Alpine Train for your day off from the slopes! Follow the i signs from the Great Alpine Highway SH73.

Ph: 03 3184000. Email: info@springfieldinformation.co.nz

www.springfieldinformation.co.nz

55.

Temple Basin Located in the middle of the Southern Alp’s Main Divide, Temple Basin is a ski area like no other. It’s about as far from Northern Hemisphere après skiing as you’ll find and for those who ski and ride there that’s just the attraction. The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive is that the ‘gondola’ only carries your gear, sorry, no hitching on this cable cage. With the weight off your shoulders the walk up should be a breeze. That’s right, there’s no access road so the 40-60 minute hike up will get the blood pumping and legs ready for skiing and riding.

Three rope tows service the field, Cassidy Tow is a great option for beginners and those of intermediate ability.

The Temple Tow takes you straight up the middle of the field and can be (initially) a little tricky for those unfamiliar with rope tows. A short traversing walk from the top of the Temple Tow leads you to another tow called Downhill Tow, which is nestled under Mt Temple and accesses a wide sunny basin. From here the hiking and touring options are immense. The entire area is ungroomed so natural features and impressive rock formations make the skiing equally challenging and rewarding.

Accommodation Ferrier Lodge at the start of the Temple Tow provides a social meeting point with a licenced bar; shelter; accommodation; and renowned restaurant quality meals.

If you haven’t heard people raving about the skiing then chances are you’ve heard them talking about the meals.

For those on a budget there is also a self-catered option and the combined bed total across two alpine lodges sleeps 120 people.

Event Profile The Black Diamond Big Mountain is a 2 star Freeride World Tour Qualifying event that attracts top local and international freeskiers and snowboarders aiming to cement a spot on the tour. The talent and nerve of the athletes, combined with the incredible terrain offered

by Temple Basin, makes this an event not to be missed.

Check List

For the ravenous: Stay the night.

The meal and desert are worth it!

First timers: Don’t pack your ski poles on the goods lift, they’re handy for the walk up.

For everyone: Take a strong head torch, powerful lights illuminate Temple Tow when conditions are right for night skiing and a head torch helps in the dark spots.

CHILL Tip Stay a few days to make the most of the walk up, and be sure you make it on time for the goods lift. It’s a long hike up when carrying boots, gears and sliding devices of choice.

Programme Profile – Tertiary Ski Week The Canterbury University Snowsports Club own and operate the lower alpine lodge at Temple Basin. They run two specially designed ski weeks for students, check out templebasin.co.nz for full details.

Terrain and Weather Tip Downhill Basin is west facing and a top pick for sunny spring days. The true right faces southwest and the true left faces west-north-west. Temple Basin is well placed to receive snow regardless of the storms direction.

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Craigieburn Valley

Mountain Lodges

Accessed from the Great Alpine Highway 73, Craigieburn Valley Ski Area is an off-piste paradise.

It is comprised of two large basins that encompass a diverse range of intermediate and advanced terrain including steep chutes through to wide powder bowls. The terrain on offer, directly from the tows or via a short traverse, is equal to some of the best in the world.

The 6km beech clad access road is as scenic as it is easy to navigate, a 2WD with chains can drive all the way to the car park on most days. You’ll find the first rope tow just a short walk from the on-mountain accommodation, car park and ticket office. Without having to unclip or unbind two more rope tows will take you all the way to the ridgeline. The tows are fast and steep so a little rope tow experience is an advantage.

While ‘Chuters’ bar at the main lodge (Koroheke) provides the perfect spot for a post-skiing drink, the on field day lodge (Whakamaru) provides both shelter from the storm or a sunny deck to enjoy lunch. Whether you’re looking for a canteen snack or kitchen fare they can cater to both. Whakamaru Day Lodge sits between the two basins, providing a great view of the whole ski area. Following the ridge behind the lodge leads to Kea Chutes which are often overlooked and regularly offer some of the best skiing on the mountain.

Craigieburn is the only mountain in New Zealand to offer inbound tree skiing, it’s not quite the same as the Northern Hemisphere but it definitely provides a change of scenery and unique lines to explore.

Smylies Mountain Transport at Craigieburn Valley.

Accommodation Koroheke is the main alpine lodge on Craigieburn and offers bunkroom accommodation, private twin share rooms and family specific rooms. Koroheke also contains a large dining room and the wellstocked Chuters Bar. Event Profile – New to CV Day If it’s your first time at Craigieburn join in on the free guided tours to learn where the best spots of the day are. Craigieburn has hosts for different abilities from experienced shredders to those who just want a fun ski down without needing life insurance.

Afterwards kick back at the bar with the first-timers happy hour.

Programme Profile – Off Piste Clinic Craigieburn’s a great option if you’re looking for advanced tuition, especially in off-piste terrain.

Their Off Piste Clinic is run by level 3 (minimum) qualified ski instructors and is designed to improve your fundamental skiing skills in a wide range of snow conditions and terrain. They cover the use of avalanche equipment, safe skiing methods and tactics, line selection and incorporating natural features to make skiing more fun.

Terrain and Weather Tip When snow conditions permit, the ‘Remarkables’ offer some of the most easily accessed gnarly terrain in the world. It’s steep and tight but there are easier routes down than others. Craigieburn Valley receives most of its snow from easterly storm systems, as well as large westerly systems when they cross the main divide.

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Ticket Office.

Eric Norman.

For those new to Craigieburn: Successfully navigate the ‘shish kebab’. The first rope tow rounds a slight corner and a spinning cone that resembles a kebab rotisserie.

Just roll with it, it works and is nowhere near as intimidating as it looks.

For those getting into backcountry travel: Make the trip to Broken River and back.

For those who want to smile: Ski Middle Basin Chutes and Middle Basin all the way to Big Bend on a powder day.

Tom Brownlee Photo: J Harrison

Check List

CHILL Tip If you’ve got cold, wet gloves take an early lunch and secure your gloves prime real estate on the potbelly stove in Whakamaru Day Lodge.

2013 CHILL SERIES

23-25 Aug 2013

Jess Smithers.

Black Diamond Safaris Guiding and Transport at Craigieburn Valley.

Online Pre-Registration Essential

www.chillout.co.nz

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Broken River BR, as it’s known to the locals, is another one of those mountains with a bit of a cult-like status. It has a friendly atmosphere, a little beginner terrain and a whole lot for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders. Add to that a variety of on-mountain accommodation, quirky access via an alpine rail, and a well-utilised and sunny day lodge.

snowboarders will find great terrain off the ridge and even more in the adjoining bowl. Allan’s Basin is accessed by a ridge tow and once you’ve enjoyed its thrills there is a track back to the main field via the saddle above the access tow.

When it comes time to refuel either pick up a snack from the canteen or join other amateur chefs on the communal hot plate located on the sunny Palmer Lodge deck. Gourmet burgers, wild venison, envious wraps and other mouth-watering morsels tend to be a daily sight at BR.

As you make your way up the beech-clad access road one immediately gets the impression BR’s a little different. At the main Hanomag car park you can choose to walk up the foot track or take the express route skyward. The Tyndall Tramway, NZ’s only alpine railway, quickly transports you and your gear up through the beech forest to the ticket office and accommodation. The 4-minute ride up not only saves you a 20-minute walk but provides fantastic views towards the Torlesse Range.

Check List For the chef: Cook a burger on the hot plate.

There’s no gear rental but if you’re looking for a tow belt they have you covered. From the ticket office it’s a short hike up the ‘Stairway to Heaven’ to the access tow. This tow is a little sporting for beginners but it’s worth a crack and it can be slowed down at the press of a button.

For the stressed: Grab a special signature BR brew and bask on Palmer Lodge deck.

For mountain bikers: During spring, ride the Craigieburn track and ski BR on the same day.

CHILL Tip If you’re safety equipped, follow Allan’s Basin below the ski area boundary to the summer road. After a good snowfall the run down to your car is an awesome finish to your day.

The main field is a feature-filled basin with plenty of great learners and intermediate terrain down low including two learners' tow. The access/rugby tow is floodlit for night skiing. Stronger skiers and

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5 2

3 4

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Accommodation BR has three lodges and two styles of accommodation available. The self-catered option is great for those on a budget but the catered option provides a welcome break after skiing. Enjoy a drink while your meal is prepared by the chef. The best part about staying on the mountain is getting the jump on the day trippers and possible night skiing!

Photo: C.Newell.

Event Profile - Free Heel Fun Weekend From Boarder-Cross to the ski Randonee, there are plenty of events at BR. Check out the Telemark Week and Free Heel Fun weekend if you’re a keen tele-marker or have a desire to give it a go. There are fun tele-events, demos, socialising and clinics throughout the weekend.

Programme Profile – Master’s Programme BR’s five day Backcountry Avalanche Course package includes five day’s dinner, bed and breakfast on the mountain as well as a one day off-piste ski clinic and four days of MSC backcountry avalanche tuition.

Terrain and Weather Tip The sheltered ski area’s east facing position results in plenty of powder days during winter and great corn snow in spring. Adventurous beginners will have a blast outside the day lodge while the rest of the mountain is an off-piste paradise.

Smylies Mountain Transport at Broken River.

Steve Tallot.

Photo: J Harrison.

Photo: G.Browne.

Black Diamond Safaris Guiding and Transport at Broken River.

Motels, Cottages & Backpackers Accommodation Warm and Welcoming Restaurant and Bar to relax in after a big day on the mountain.

GREAT ALPINE HIGHWAY CRAIGIEBURN VALLEY, CASS PH +64 3 318 8196 MAIL@FLOCKHILL.CO.NZ WWW.FLOCKHILL.CO.NZ

Within close proximity to Porters, Mt Cheeseman, Craigieburn and Broken River skifields.

Thirsty Thursday throughout the winter from 5.30pm with specials, spot prizes and great food specials.

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Mt Cheeseman

Photo: J.Van Citters.

One of the family favourites, Mt Cheeseman is a club ski area with a difference. It has a distinctive family friendly feeling, but offers diverse terrain for all abilities and loads of great facilities. Unlike most club fields, the main runs are accessed by two T-bars and there are easy trails down, courtesy of extensive grooming.

Located on the great alpine highway just past Castle Hill Village (if driving from Christchurch), the access road is suitable for 2WD vehicles with chains. At the base of the ski area you’ll find the day lodge with the licenced Cockayne Cafe, ticket office, gear hire and plenty of storage for bags etc.

The deck out front is a sunny spot to watch the action when the weather’s good. The learner’s rope tow is located immediately in front of the day lodge so it’s also a great spot to watch the kiddies once they’ve found their feet.

The top of the first T-bar has plenty of wide open groomed slopes ideal for practising your technique, while the second T-bar takes you to the ridgeline. If you ski with your knees together then head straight down through the mogul field. Those after a powder fix can head to the shaded face below Mt Cockayne or along a ridge run to Sunny Face. Accessed from the ridgeline, Tarn Basin is a popular touring option outside the ski area boundary for backcountry enthusiasts.

Black Diamond Safaris Transport at Mt Cheeseman.

Photo: R.Gordon.

Check List

For the weary: Grab a quick fix with an espresso from the Cockayne Cafe.

For the early bird: Enjoy fresh corduroy with first turns on the pistes.

For intermediate skiers & boarders: Take the short ridge walk to the top of Mt Cockayne.

CHILL Tip Drive to the top, drop off your gear and passengers before parking in the car park below. It’s a very short walk with no gear, just hope you don’t pull the short straw.

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Accommodation You’re a little spoilt for choice when it comes to a night on the slopes at Mt Cheeseman. You can stay on the field in the Snowline Lodge, a fully catered ski-in ski-out arrangement. For those on a budget there’s the Forest Lodge, a self-catered backpacker accommodation option at the bottom of the access road. Here you’ll find one of Mt Cheeseman’s trump cards – the ice skating rink!

Event Profile – Undie 500 There’s a range of great events at Mt Cheeseman including a leg of the CHILL Gromfest Series.

We’ve chosen to highlight one of the quirkier events this year as it’s always a laugh and draws a crowd – The ThermaTech Undie 500. The name may come from the university event but it’s more of a literal translation that sees guys and girls race down the mountain in nothing but their underwear.

Smylies Mountain Transport at Mt Cheeseman.

Programme Profile – Ski Weeks and Kea Kids Club Mt Cheeseman has a superb ski and snowboard school with the ever popular Ski Weeks and Kea Kids Club programmes. Your kids receive quality lessons from internationally qualified instructors and while they’re having a blast, you’re free to ski wherever you please - a parents best holiday!

Terrain and Weather Tip Mt Cockayne provides plenty of powder during winter and you can keep scoring fresh tracks by sacrificing a little vertical and heading wide. Come spring Sunny Face softens early and provides a long run back to the Cockayne Cafe. For those that like natural features the mountain is scattered with heaps of hips that make for creative lines.

Check out the ‘Elephant Holes’ for some natural kickers and Noggy’s Garden for some rock features. Mt Cheeseman’s east facing basin has north and south aspects that ski well after fronts from either direction.

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Porters Porters is the largest commercial operation available on CHILL Season Passes and a long-time favourite of Christchurch residents. There are three consecutive T-bars to take you skyward and views to Lake Coleridge and Mt Olympus from the top.

Heading left or right you can opt to take groomed runs varying in pitch from winding cat tracks to wide and fast pistes. Heading out wide from the top you’ll find the powder hound favourites of Big Mama and Bluff Face. Those new to the sport are well catered for, down low there is a Ski-Mat magic carpet for first-timers and a platter lift to provide a stepping stone to the longer steeper slopes.

Not only is Porters the closest ski area to Christchurch (89km) but the access road is also short, well maintained, and suitable for 2WD vehicles. If snow’s fallen and chains are required there’s a free shuttle that operates from the bottom of the access road, booking is essential, see Porters website for details. Once at the top there are all the facilities you’d expect at a large commercial ski area including a great cafe, equipment hire and a range of professional lessons.

Porter’s terrain park is one of the best on the CHILL Pass and provides features for new comers to seasoned jibbers. If you want a few tips from the locals keep an eye out for the orange jackets. A few regulars are given the honour of ‘Mountain Hosts’ and are more than happy to help out if you’re looking for some local knowledge.

Check List

For beginners: Progress from the Ski-Mat magic carpet to the Platter.

For the hungry: Devour hot chips and a coffee in the cafe.

For fun: Throw a Daffy or Method at Retro Gear and Air. CHILL Tip Keep an eye on gloves, sandwiches, coffee etc, Keas love unattended items in the car park.

Accommodation Those who want first tracks often stay at the on-mountain lodge located 5 minutes’ drive down the access road. The lodge is run by the Porter Heights Ski Club and offers catered accommodation with a games room and drying room www.portersskilodge.co.nz Event Profile – Octoberfest Porter’s plays host to a range of events from terrain park contests, the CHILL Gromfest Series and a retro day to name a few. This year we put the spotlight on Octoberfest. Long-time mountain manager Uli Dinsenbacher pays homage to his heritage in a celebration of German dress, music, food and beer. It’s a fun and free event, just don’t forget your lederhosen and to grab a bratwurst from chief BBQ operator Uli. Smylies Mountain Transport at Porters.

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MT ENYS Elevation 2,194m

LAKE COLERIDGE

Headwall

trail map Ski Patrol

Snomat Lift (Beginner)

Toilets

Platter Lift (Intermediate)

Cafe & Licensed Restaurant

T-Bar Lifts

Ski &SnowBoard Hire

Beginner Trails

Information & Ticket Office

Intermediate Trails

Snowmaking Area

Advanced Trails

Snow Gun

Ski Area Boundary

Sundance Bowl

PEAK ALLISON1,997m Elevation

Solitude

T3

Leaper Cat-Track

Expert Only

Expert Only

T2

Bluff Face

Julian’s Bowl

T1

Dome Face

BASE AREA Elevation 1,302m

Community Park Terrain Park

State Highway 73, Springfield

Programme Profile – Master’s Programme New this year, Mountain Host John Dunne is running a Master’s Programme to complement the great range of existing training programmes including Kids Camp and Freestyle Development to name a just a couple. The Master’s Programme provides a first time introduction to skiing for those who want to tick it off their bucket list and need a little moral support, along with some great instruction to help them progress, see page 108.

Terrain and Weather Tip Those looking for Porters’ best snow should check the snow reports after southerly, south-east and nor’west fronts. The main basin generally faces east, although there are a range of aspects that receive snow from all these weather patterns. If there’s fresh snow, Big Mama is best early in the day as this north facing slope receives plenty of sun. This also makes it a good option on warmer spring days, as it’s the first face to soften. Bluff Face on the other hand sits in the shade and remains cooler for longer and is at its best in the middle of winter.

From budget to all inclusive.

Daily mountain transport.

Ski rental, tuneup room, drying room and internet.

Delicious food, Japanese bath, heaps of movies, books and fully made beds with heaters in the room to keep you cosy.

www.smylies.co.nz E. stay@smylies.co.nz P: +64 3 318 4740

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Mt Olympus Mt Olympus is one of those ski areas with an impressive reputation. The terrain is amazing, the access road an adventure, the coffee is good and it boasts the highest hot tub in NZ. The ski area is proudly groomer free so it’s best to keep an eye on the weather to ensure you take the correct weapons from your quiver. The series of rope tows are nestled within a south facing basin which ensures it receives plenty of powder days by NZ standards.

Getting there will take the un-prepared by surprise.

The road to the bottom hut is manageable in a 2WD vehicle but often requires chains. For your car’s sake it is best tackled in a 4WD. The road from the bottom hut, which is available for self-catered accommodation, to the ski area car park is a little sporting and a high ground clearance 4WD with chains on board is required. If your car, or nerves aren’t up for this final leg, simply wait at the bottom hut and catch a ride with one of the regulars.

Everyone has to stop here and radio up for road clearance.

The terrain at Mt Olympus is suited for intermediate snow lovers through to the advanced. There’s a great learners area but it requires an adventurous beginner to conquer the access tow or complete the hike there. The rolling terrain accessed from the top lift is an intermediate’s playground. There are also rock drops and chutes available from the tows. Those prepared to go for a hike or ski tour are rewarded the most as the top of the tows are really where the mountains begin.

Black Diamond Safaris Guiding and Transport at Mt Olympus.

Photo: J.Harrison.

Accommodation The true Mt Olympus experience is found by booking a night or two in the Top Hut, which sits in the middle of the field. The included dinner, bed and breakfast is sure to please the most discerning diner and the toasty warm lodging ensures a comfortable sleep. For those feeling social, the bar and sound system often run late into the night. With a large dress up box to fuel the silliness and a set of floodlights you may partake in some fairly unique night skiing should conditions permit.

Event Profile – Alpine Curling At the top of the main tow sits a tarn that’s frozen in winter, here the club put on a great DIY curling event. This includes helicoptering a modified ride-on lawnmower ‘Zamboni’ to groom the ice and creating an outdoor ice bar to keep participants hydrated.

Programme Profile – Ski Weeks Mt Olympus is renowned for its ski weeks. Why stay one day when you can stay for six. Each week is themed so you ski/ride with likeminded individuals. If you have a few grey hairs on your head have a look into Dog-Tucker’s Week. You’ll be amongst esteemed company and there won’t be a whippersnapper in sight. Make sure to go online and book your space early.

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Photo: T.Stephens.

Terrain and Weather Tip Tucked away high in the Craigieburn Range, Mt Olympus receives snow from south and nor’west storms. It’s also a good pick during strong nor’west days. While in the valley it may seem like you’d be blown off the mountain, once on the ski area you’ll be surprised how sheltered it is as the wind often blows over top. : J. Colin Boyd. Photo

Harrison.

Check List

For all: Raid the dress up box and ski/ride in new attire.

For the hungry: Enjoy a chef’s cooked lunch and a drink on the deck (order before 11am).

For the indulgent: Have a soak in the hot tub.

CHILL Tip If you’re staying the night don’t forget your togs (Aussies see: swimmers) for the hot tub.

ephens.

H.Stephens. Photo: T.St

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Methven Heliski

Mt Hutt – photograph by Tony Harrington

Brown Pub – photograph by Jamie Robertson

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Methven Methven offers the perfect escape for snow lovers, no matter what your taste or budget. Just over one hour from Christchurch, Methven is an alpine-themed village nestled close to the Southern Alps.

Mt Hutt is the local’s choice for convenience and capacity.

The ski area caters to the very novice right through to proathletes. Three high speed chairlifts give accessibility to the trails. Extensive grooming and snowmaking ensures you have plenty of skiable terrain even if the skies are blue and the sun is shining.

Porters Ski Area in the Craigieburn Range is one hour drive on State Highway 73.

It’s family friendly and a great alternative. There are 4 club ski areas in the Craigieburn Range, Mt Cheeseman, Broken River and Craigieburn. Mt Cheeseman is predominately a learner and intermediate ski area with T-bars, while Broken River and Craigieburn have rope tows for the more adventurous.

Similarly, Mt Olympus, with rope tows, attracts adventurous skiers and snowboarders. The ski area turn off is only 20minutes from Methven. Mt Olympus is

a powder paradise with 60 hectares of off-piste terrain, perfect for those who enjoy untracked slopes, narrow chutes and deep powder basins. The “Top Hut” offers a fantastic après-ski option for the lucky few who manage to book a bunk, complete with a hot tub overlooking the magnificent vista.

Black Diamond Safaris, based in Methven, offer daily guided services to Craigieburn, Broken River and Mt Olympus. They are located at Big Als’ Snowsports Store, Main Rd. Heli Skiing is also a popular pass time in Methven, with Methven HeliSki accessing the Arrowsmith Range, and Southern Alps Heli accessing the Two Thumbs Range.

Helipark (when operating) is a more affordable option, based at Mt Potts Station. Helipark offers a short flight from the lodge into great terrain. Southern Alps Heli also operate from here.

Don’t Miss Cinema Paradiso Methven Heritage Centre’s collection of snow memorabilia.

Methven Heli

Nearby Ski Areas • Mt Hutt: 30mins • Mt Olympus: 40mins • Porters: 1 hr Heli Options

• Heli Park & Southern Alps Heli: 1 hr to Mt Potts Station • Methven Heli: departs from the Village Useful Site www.amazingspace.co.nz

Rental Specialists World Famous in Methven since '86

www.bigals.co.nz

P: +64 3 302 8003

Self contained accommodation resort & conference centre just two minutes walk from the Alpine heartland village of Methven.

43 Barkers Road, Methven 7730, NZ P. +64 3 302 8885 Freeph. 0800 161 223 E. info@brinkleyresort.co.nz W. www.brinkleyresort.co.nz

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Other Services Methven Heliski

Where to Stay Abisko Lodge & Apartments Central location, friendly atmosphere. Accommodation to meet most budgets. Ensuite lodge rooms, self-contained apartments & powered campsites. Licensed bar, spa/ sauna (fees apply), mountain transfers from the door. Special deals online.

74 Main St NZ Free Ph: 0508 224 756 www.abisko.co.nz/chill Brinkley Resort Award Winning self-contained Qualmark 4 Star Methven Resort on mountain bus route. 80 apartments & rooms, laundry facilities, restaurant, outdoor spa pools, BBQ, tennis courts, Wi-Fi, Sky TV & helipad.

43 Barkers Rd NZ Free Ph: 0800 161 223 E: info@brinkleyresort.co.nz www.brinkleyresort.co.nz Blue Pub The place to be with wicked bar and sunny verandah with outdoor dining. Their upstairs accommodation is easy, convenient and warm for those nights when you just can’t leave!

2 Barkers Rd P: +64 3 302 8046 E: info@thebluepub.co.nz www.thebluepub.co.nz

Brown Pub Comfortable clean beds, great bars and awesome food. Eat or stay at the Brown Pub this winter and there will be no charge for kids 10 years & under!

Cnr Main St & Forest Dr P: +64 3 302 8045 info@thebrownpub.co.nz www.thebrownpub.co.nz Big Tree Lodge Backpacker Hostel with selfcontained unit. Dorm rooms from $35, twin/double rooms $75. clean, homely, self-catering, free coffee, internet & laundry, 3min walk to town centre.

Zenbu hotspot.

25 SouthBelt P: +64 3 302 9575 E: bigtree@xtra.co.nz www.bigtreelodge.co.nz Snow Sports Alpine Sports Methven’s newest snowsports store. Located in the European Chalet on Main St. Check out their EASYFLOW rental and RETAIL on their virtual shop tour!

Drop on in!

87 Main St P: +64 3 302 8084 info@alpinesports.co.nz www.alpinesports.co.nz

Methven i-SITE All the info you need is at the i-SITE with expert knowledge and free booking service. Open 7 days.

160 Main St P: +64 3 302 8955 E: Methven@i-site.org Methven Travel Shuttle services Christchurch Airport - Methven & return - 3x daily during the Ski Season. Ski Bus 2x daily Methven - Mt Hutt. Special shuttles/ charters available on request.

Skierised rental cars.

NZ Free Ph: 0800 684 888 www.methventravel.co.nz Where to Unwind Methven Sports Massage Reward yourself after a day on the mountain with a massage.

Deep tissue, hot rock, relaxation or reflexology treatments avail. Located centrally 300mtrs from the i-SITE. P: +64 3 302 8323 E: bookings@methvensportsmassage.co.nz www.methvensportsmassage.co.nz

Where to Eat The Last Post Dom’s Pizza & Kebabs The Brown Pub The Blue Pub Best Coffee Primo e Secundo Cafe Arabica Licensed Cafe Cafe 131

* Ensuited lodge rooms at a sensible price. * Spa and Sauna. * Ski drying room. *2 minutes walk from village heart.

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Mountain Bike Trails

family can comfortably ride the trails together. Be sure to take a few spare tubes as some of the track is surrounded by Matagouri. The tracks start from the Lake Emma car park, it skirts the lake and crosses the outlet leading onto Lake Camp. You can return or take the road back.

To extend the ride cross through the settlement of baches and check out Lake Clearwater.

Methven Walkway An easy bike ride mainly following grass verges beside the Rangitata Diversion Race (a hydro-electric irrigation channel) and private farmland. The Walkway commences and ends at the Methven i-SITE Visitor Centre where maps are available.

Lake Emma to Lake Camp

Mt Hutt Bike Park

Lake Clearwater, Lake Emma and Lake Camp all lie within a stones throw or short bike ride from each other. There are 4WD tracks that skirt each lake and the views are superb. None of the riding is particularly difficult and a young

Downhill Trail. For the more adventurous riders the Mt Hutt Downhill trails provide an almost limitless playground for training and progression. Recognized as one of the premier areas in

Talk to Big Als or see www.licencetoride.co.nz for further details.

Colin Boyd, Mt Olympus. Photo: J.Harrison.

Mt Olympus. Photo: J.Lo ndon.

Photo: J. Harrison.

Sam Lee, K2 Big MTN.

Photo: R. Bathurst.

Canterbury, the trails are vast, from open 4wd drive and skidder tracks, to epic single track. All tracks are well maintained with berms, bridge features and kickers.

Intermediate Cross Country Trails.

The cross country track is 10kms of rolling hill trails suitable for all riders.

This runs on the lower side of the Mt Hutt access road and links to the downhill trails.

(Conditions permitting).

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Global Guiding & Riding KEVIN BOEKHOLT

Kevin Boekholt is one of New Zealand’s most experienced mountain guides and his love of the Southern Alps is infectious. He’s been professionally guiding all over the world since 1983 and became a full IFMGA/UIAGM guide in 1985. He’s a family man, photographer and the director or Alpine Guides and Methven Helisking. We caught up with Kevin to chew the fat and gain an insight into the migratory lives of ski guides.

Name: Kevin Boekholt Age: 52 Do the family ski?

Yes, my wife Hiromi is a ski instructor at Mt Hutt, my son Kenji (16) is a freestyle skier and Ellie (11) is part of Team Hutt.

Favourite CHILL Ski Area?

I spent lots of time at Porters in my Lincoln Uni days then hit all the Craigieburn fields and did some work at Temple Basin.

Favourite backcountry terrain?

Arrowsmith Range.

Preferred skis?

This season it’s the Rossignol Super 7 (updated version of the S7) or K2 Hardsides, I skied these last NZ season and liked them!

Where do you reside?

Methven.

$59 DEAL! DINNER + BED + BREKKIE Brown Pub, Methven

www.thebrownpub.co.nz/specials

+0064 3 302 8045

Why Methven?

I came to Methven in 1986 to set up Methven Heli and pretty much made it my base from then on.

In winter it’s my operational base and in summer it’s close to the airport for my overseas work. I like bouldering at Castle Hill and mountain biking, so it’s the perfect location for these activities, especially with the development of the Mt Hutt bike tracks.

How did you get involved with HeliSkiing?

Long story but in 1983 I went on an expedition to the Himalayas which resulted in the loss of my job with the Park Service. Heliskiing in the Ben Ohau Range was taking off mainly as a result of a lack of snow on the ski areas. Every Australian tour, searching for snow, was heading to the regions with higher elevation terrain. I had the base skills from my employment on the Mt Cook SAR team and was doing casual work in the region, Alpine Guides gave me a start as an assistant ski guide.

What ranges do you access from Methven?

We mainly fly in the Arrowsmith Range, Ragged Range and Palmer Range plus some terrain surrounding these mountains. Basically we have the best West to East selection of mountain terrain in NZ. When the sun sets on winter in NZ where does the snow goose lead you?

Greenland, Japan and Canada to name a few.

Since 1988 I have worked in Canada for CMH Heliskiing which was the company that founded helskiing. I also own a company called Shinsetsu International that operates ski touring, heliski guide

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In the past 10 years we have spent time in Russia, Japan and Alaska and …..on the East Coast of Greenland. training and avalanche courses. In the past 10 years we have spent time in Russia, Japan and Alaska and since 2000 we have operated a heliskiing business on the East Coast of Greenland.

Where have you been to this summer?

This past Northern Hemisphere winter I spent 70 days heliski guiding near Revelstoke, British Columbia, with a couple of weeks in between to enjoy the Canterbury summer. In late March I worked in Japan as an examiner on the Japanese ski guide exam and from mid-April to the end of May I’m heliskiing from my base in Kulusuk East Greenland.

Does the family travel with you?

My family spends the summer holidays with me in Revelstoke BC every year and occasionally head to Japan. My kids love skiing and Revelstoke is an exciting resort, leaving them behind is not an option!

Tell us about your current project, we believe you’re involved with industry regulations.

I am currently part of a working group in the development of the Activity Safety Guidelines for the heliski industry. This is part of a Government 2009/10 directive to review risk management and safety in the adventure tourism industry.

The heliski industry had already been proactive in this direction and the main companies had got together and formed the New Zealand Heliski Operators Group (NZHOG). HOG had developed a code of practice for the industry utilising standards from the equivalent Canadian and Amercian organisations and standards from the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association (NZMGA) that reflect the current best industry practices. The new

activity safety guidelines will be based around the HOG code of practice and will contain adventure tourism and outdoor commercial sector information published on the Support Adventure website.

Lastly, what brings you home?

It’s always great to be home and spend time with the family, ride the bike tracks and have a beer at the Blue Pub!

The World Famous Blue Pub Great bar, sunny verandah, tasty all day menu & delicious evening dining.

The Place To Be!

Phone (03) 302 8046 www.thebluepub.co.nz

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Ashburton The Ashburton Region stretches from the Alps to the ocean and is bordered by impressive braided rivers. Encompassing Ashburton, Methven Rakaia, Mt Somers & surrounding high country area, it’s an area with surprising contrasts.

Ashburton township’s proximity to Christchurch makes it an ideal location to stay overnight, after arriving at Christchurch International Airport or prior to departing. There is an array of restaurants, bars and cafes.

Local ski areas are within travelling distance, allowing for a full day of alpine adventure. Mountain biking is also a very popular activity and there are numerous trails to explore.

Local Ski Areas

• Mt Olympus: 1 hr 30min • Mt Hutt: 1 hr 10min • Fox Peak: 1 hr 40min • Mt Dobson: 1 hr 40min Where to Stay Bella Vista Motel New 18 unit motel. 4 star plus, double glazed for quietness. 1hr south of Christchurch/Airport on route to Queenstown. Ski Mt Hutt within 1hr. Spa & family units.

469 West St, SH1 NZ Free Ph: 0800 235 528 E: stay@bellavistaashburton.co.nz

www.bellavistamotelashburton.co.nz

Hotel Ashburton The perfect place to stay on the way to or from the airport. Set on the outskirts of Ashburton with large and beautifully kept gardens offering a quiet stay in the countryside.

Racecourse Rd NZ Free Ph: 0800 330 880 www.hotelash.co.nz Tinwald Motel Modern Qualmark 4+, 12 unit motel. 3km south of Ashburton.

Their affordable, self-contained and serviced luxury units are double glazed, air conditioned with high quality beds for a great night’s sleep.

Main South Rd, Tinwald NZ Free Ph: 0800 846 9253 www.tinwaldmotels.co.nz Where to Eat Speight’s Ale House If it’s good hearty portions of Southern food matched with local beer you’re after then Speight’s Ale House is for you. There is a full range of Speight’s beers on tap. *1 free child’s meal ordered from the Child’s menu per each adult main meal with a valid Ski Pass.

245 Burnett St P: +64 3 308 5980

BURNE T T

ST

Braided Rivers Restaurant & Bar Versatility and vibrant atmosphere, along with delectable cuisine from a range of menus is offered at Braided Rivers. Try their ‘gold standard’ juicy steaks cooked using the only Montague Steakhouse Broiler of its kind in the South Island.+10% off your total bill when dining at Braided Rivers Restaurant & Bar with a valid Ski Pass.

246 Burnett St P: +64 3 307 2541 www.braidedrivers.co.nz The Somerset Grocer The Somerset Grocer loves great food and takes pride in bringing you the best local and international produce, in a great shop atmosphere. You will encounter new products and tasty delights with each visit.°$1 cheese rolls when purchasing a Bach coffee or Harney & Sons tea with a valid Ski Pass.

Cnr East & Burnett St P: +64 3 307 5899 www.somersetgrocer.co.nz Best Coffee The Somerset Grocer Nosh The Ashburton i-SITE and Visitor Centre has all the information you’ll need for accommodation and activities, located on East St. P: +64 3 308 1050

Game on Check out live sport & stop over for a great meal.

ASHBURTON *See listing for conditions.

1 Free Childs Meal* 245 Burnett St // 03 308 5980

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Mountain Bike Trails

Ashburton - Lake Hood A short and sweet ride along the banks of the Ashburton River to the manmade Lake Hood. The track is wide and well formed on a specific built and compacted cycle trail, to allow for dual way traffic. Take your time and enjoy a cold drink and bite to eat at the Lake House Restaurant and Bar overlooking the lake, before returning and completing the 21km loop.

Detail: Loop Circuit Timing: 1-2 hrs, suitable for all abilities.

Car park and start of track is at the south side of the Ashburton Bridge, SH1

Ashburton Hakatere River Trails A new and evolving set of trails starting at the car park on the north side of the Ashburton Bridge. The trails follow the river east, all the way to the coast, approximately 25km. There are also some trails that have spread 10kms west of the bridge. The single track comes off the main coast trail, and the area is fast becoming a large single track network with bermed corners, wooden bridges and natural features.

r.

Braided Rivers Ba

Local Bike Shop Cyclerama Cyclerama is owned and operated by Paul Wylie, a well known cycling figure in Mid Canterbury. Paul provides the wider Ashburton district with bike mechanical services and quality bike sales.

211 Burnett St P: +64 3 307 6443 E: paul@cyclerama.co.nz www.cyclerama.co.nz

nz.com www.midcanterbury

See www.licencetoride.co.nz for further details.

Relax in style Dine & relax en route to & from the mountains.

10 % Discount+

246 Burnett St // 03 307 2541 +

See listing for conditions.

Photo: R.Ba thurst.

On the run Grab an early morning coffee & a light bite to eat en route to the mountains.

$1.00 Cheese Rolls Cnr East & Burnett St // 03 307 5899 See listing for conditions.

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Ruari Macfarlane, K2 Big MTN. Photo: T.Carney.

Quicksilver Skullcandy Rider X, Broken River. Photo: C. Newell.

Tor Chiles, CHILL Gromfest. Photo: G.Browne.

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Temple Basin.

ThermalTech, Undie 500. Mt Cheeseman.

Spring Slushies. Broken River, Sam Marsh. Photo: S. Worsp.

K2 Bigh MTN. Photo: T. Stephens.

Black Diamond Big MTN, TB. Photo: G.Browne.

CHILL Gromfest. Stu & Paul.

Ryan C, Big MTN Start List - Beer Fine! Photo: R.Mckay.

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Mackenzie The Mackenzie Region is a true winter wonderland. It’s far reaching open tussock terrain contrasts with bright blue lakes and an ever changing alpine backdrop. Fairlie, Tekapo, Twizel and Omarama are small and unique rural towns. Aoraki Mt Cook Village is an iconic New Zealand destination.

Fairlie On route from Christchurch to Tekapo, Fairlie is the gateway to Mackenzie, with beautiful landscapes and mountain vistas.

The Ski Shack snowsport store is located in Fairlie, offering gear hire and sales.

*Fast IAC Internet *Cabins & Motels *Online Deals

Where to Eat

Eat Deli & Bar Fairlie Bakehouse Farm Barn Cafe SH79 nrth of Fairlie Best Coffee Eat Deli & Bar

Tekapo The glacial melted waters give Tekapo the fresh, turquoise colour it’s renowned for. Tekapo is the closest town to Roundhill and home to Earth and Sky. Where to Stay Lake Tekapo Scenic Resort Situated in the town centre, Lake Tekapo Scenic Resort offers a range of quality accommodation, with self-contained Family Units, Studio Units, Large Upstairs Apartment and backpackers and budget rooms.

NZ Free Ph: 0800 118 666 E: stay@laketekapo.com www.laketekapo.com Tailor-Made-Tekapo Backpackers Only 200 metres from the village centre, yet quiet and peaceful.

Doubles, twins, dormitory (no bunks!) and family rooms. A drying room and bench for grooming your skis and boards!

P: +64 3 680 6700

E: tailor-made-backpackers@xtra.co.nz www.tailor-made-backpackers.co.nz

Winter Paradise www.mackenziewinter.co.nz

Photo: Roundhill

Tekapo Holiday Homes Great selection of holiday homes in the heart of Tekapo. Relax in one of their fully self-contained houses, professionally cleaned and all linen supplied. Affordable rates book online now.

P: +64 3 680 6607 E: rayntek@xtra.co.nz www.tekapoholidayhomes.co.nz

Discover Tekapo Experience Tekapo in comfort you don’t have to clean and linen is provided! From ultra-modern to 70’s retro, suit all budgets, they have the ideal home for your holiday.

P: +64 3 680 6942 E: accommodation@discovertekapo.co.nz www.discovertekapo.co.nz Peppers Bluewater Resort Surrounded by the spectacular landscape of the Southern Alps, Peppers Bluewater Resort offers a stunning glacial escape. Located in the heart of Tekapo Village, it’s a short drive to local mountains.

State Highway 8 NZ Free Ph: 0800 680 570 E: bluewater@peppers.co.nz www.peppers.co.nz Where to Eat

Rakinui Restaurant, Peppers Astro Cafe, Mt John Kohan Japanese Restaurant Pepe’s Pizza & Pasta Restaurant.

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Mountain Bike Trails Fairlie Walkway Best Coffee Astro Cafe, Mt John Run 77 Cafe and General Store Local Ski Areas • Mt Dobson:

• Fox Peak:

• Roundhill:

• Ohau:

30min Fairlie 40min Tekapo 30min Fairlie 1 hr Tekapo 1 hr Fairlie 30min Tekapo 1 hr Tekapo

Don’t Miss Soak in the hot pools at Tekapo Springs.

Gaze at the stars at Earth & Sky. Visit Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Museum, Aoraki, Mt Cook Village.

If you’re staying at the Fairlie Top10 turn right from your accommodation and drop into the walkway town-side of the main bridge. Follow the river downstream, it’s a fun, albeit easy, single track. When you get to the track’s end, return the way you came or cross the river and add on the Spur Road loop for a great view of the Two Thumb Range.

Lake Tekapo Regional Park

Nestled on the eastern shore of the lake. The Park offers new single tracks suitable for all levels.

Access off Lilybank Rd. Tekapo, Cowans Hill

Omarama is the gliding capital of New Zealand, and gateway to Awakino Ski Club when traveling through the Mackenzie Region.

From the townships main bridge, Cowans Hill gradually climbs into a small forest before crossing a poled 4WD track over firebreaks and tussock lands. After 12kms it exists onto SH8, 1km from the Regional Park.

Local Ski Areas

Tekapo Richmond Trail

Omarama

• Awakino: 1 hr Omarama,

30min Kurow Omarama Top 10 Holiday Park Come and warm up in their fully self-contained Park Motel Units or Standard Cabins (with use of the communal facilities). Wireless/ internet kiosk. Hot Tubs Omarama close by to revive your body.

1 Omarama Ave, Cnr Route 83 & Highway 8 NZ Free Ph: 0800 662 726 E: stay@omaramatop10.co.nz www.omaramatop10.co.nz

marked Richmond Trail starts on your right. The track roams over an old glacial terrace with stunning views. The fun really starts on the descent to Lillybank Road which is quite technical in places.

Twizel River Trail

On the east side of SH8, opposite Twizel is the start of the River Trail.

A DOC sign marks the track’s start with 12kms (one way) over an old farm track alongside the Twizel River. It’s an easy ride 2-3hrs return, reasonably flat and ideal for a family outing.

Twizel Dusky Trail

A fun ride through scenic tussock lands from Twizel. The trail flanks the Fraser Stream through Darts Bush and climbs beneath the Ben Ohau Range.

The Richmond trail is located in the Te Kahui Kaupeka Conservation Park, boarded by Lake Tekapo and the Two Thumb Range. A fantastic ride consisting of an undulating tussock clad single track, a technical downhill section and some of the most picturesque views in the country.

The track starts at a signposted parking area on Roundhill Ski Area’s access road. Continuing 3km up the gravel road the well-

“One of the best stargazing sites on Earth”

Bob Park, Ed. International Dark Skies Assn.

Book a tour:

www.earthandsky.co.nz

Yourself THEReward ORIGINAL 3-PIECE BOOT DESIGN Mackenzie Winter Photo: Tekapo Springs

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Mt Dobson

the mountain. They also offer a range of group or private lessons and learner packages.

If hunger sets in and you haven’t brought lunch, head for the hut at the bottom of the field. A cafeteria provides hot and cold food, drinks and snacks. Despite being a commercial operation, Mt Dobson has an intimate, friendly feel. The chairlift, great terrain, easy access and extensive grooming combine for a great all round experience.

For those in the know Mt Dobson is an under-rated gem. Firstly, it’s big. A triple seater chairlift and a T-bar access two massive valleys and come powder days, a short traverse or walk will ensure you score fresh tracks all day long. It’s also high, boasting the highest car park in the Southern Hemisphere. The road is an engineering feat that has been lovingly crafted and cared for by one man, Peter Foote. It’s wide and suitable for 2WD’s with chains.

The ski area itself is made up of wide pistes, gullies, rock outcrops and natural features. For those that like to get a little jibby you’ll find some boxes, kickers and rails scattered around the place. For learners the deal’s even sweeter, the fixed grip rope tow is free! Once you’ve mastered the fixed grip rope tow there’s a learner’s platter to provide a stepping stone to the chairlift accessed cat tracks.

If you’re travelling and are looking to score some tracks in the Mackenzie Region there’s no need to hire elsewhere, they have gear rental available on

BOOK NOW, CALL 24/7

0800 604 060

Accommodation The closest accommodation to Mt Dobson is located in Fairlie. The Top 10 Holiday park is always a favourite and the crew have been long-time supporters of CHILL. No matter the budget you’ll find a bed, whether it’s a camp site, cabin or motel unit. The best part – they have a petanque court!

Event Profile – 20 Below Rugby in the snow Since the 2011 Rugby World Cup Mt Dobson’s been hosting a rugby tournament with a difference. The national game is stereotypically played by hulky men, but the guys and girls that partake in this event are a different breed. It’s high alpine seven aside rugby, played in the middle of the ski area.

Programme Profile – First Timers Mt Dobson is a brilliant ski area for first timers to learn how to ski and snowboard. There’s a range of lift, lesson and rental packages for all abilities.

Being a quieter ski area with fewer queues, there’s no pressure to make it to the platter lift on your first time.

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Terrain and Weather Tip Mt Dobson is a large south-west facing basin with sunny and shady aspects. Look out for those big southerly fronts. With Mt Dobson’s altitude, fronts can bring deep and dry powder. The steeper off-piste slopes are found between the two main lifts.

Two gullies provide a natural half pipe to play in and the pistes ensure great skiing and riding in all conditions.

Check List

For the audience: Wipe out underneath the chairlift.

For those on the T-bar: Hike to the top of Dobson Peak (2095m), see if you can spot Fox Peak.

For the last run: Ski Sunny Run all the way back to your car.

CHILL Tip Stay in Fairlie or Tekapo.

With three great mountains scattered around you’re spoilt for choice. Chair lifts are a novelty on the CHILL Pass so if you’re an intermediate skier or rider or just need a break from rope tows and T-bars then Mt Dobson is the ticket.

EXPLORE THE SOUTHERN ALPS with a flexiable CHILL 5,7 or 10 Day anytime pass or a 30 Day travel itinary.

Buy your pass online www.chillout.co.nz

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Roundhill Renowned as one of the best family fields in New Zealand, Roundhill also caters to park lovers and powder hounds. Two T-bars provide plenty of groomed intermediate terrain and the park provides features for almost all abilities including a variety of boxes, rails and jumps. Those looking for a challenge will enjoy the Heritage Express rope tow which is the longest, steepest and straightest you’ll find, bar none. From the top you can enjoy 783m of vertical, the longest in the Southern Hemisphere.

A scenic drive around the eastern side of Lake Tekapo leads you to one of the nicer mountain roads in the country. A 2WD with chains will have no issue reaching the car park which seems to have no shortage of space. The mountain is rich in facilities and the two tow beginner slope and instruction programmes make the transition to the T-bars nice and easy. Then when you’re ready to tackle the Heritage Express, hire yourself a tow belt and head on up. For young ones not quite ready to don the boots, a specifically groomed toboggan course will give them a memorable introduction to snow. When the stomach starts rumbling or those boots start to ache the sunny deck and licenced cafe provide just the remedy.

Accommodation You wouldn’t be blamed for wanting to spend a few days at Roundhill and there are plenty of accommodation options in Tekapo Township including backpackers, holiday homes and luxurious villas. Between the lake, hydro canals and protected night sky there are plenty of other activities should you strike a down day.

Event Profile – Roundhill Hill Climb Come event weekends the mountain has a healthy buzz and highlights include an 80’s Day, Karl Burtscher Memorial GS and Snow Jam slope style contest. A new draw card for Roundhill is the Hill Climb where South Island sledders point their snowmobiles towards the top of the Richmond Range. It’s a beautifully simple contest – the highest person wins!

Programme Profile – Ski School Roundhill has Internationally qualified instructors that provide friendly and expert tuition for all ages and abilities. If you’re Tekapo bound for school holidays it’s best to get in early to book the

81.

grommies for lessons. They’re a popular way for the young ones to learn the basics or hone their skills in a safe and fun environment.

Terrain and Weather Tip If Roundhill didn’t come highly recommended enough we’ve left the crown jewel out until now.

From the top of the first T-bar head skier’s right.

You’ll soon see a small hut in the middle of the run and if you’re over 18 and feeling thirsty pop in for a quencher. You’ll be hard pressed to find a bar with a more impressive view; this is the famous Von Brown Hut. The ski area itself faces the south-west so expect plenty of sunshine throughout the day. The fronts that pass up the country are the ones to look out for – powder awaits!

Check List

For first-time families: Introduce all members of the family to snow!

For rope tow enthusiasts: Ski / ride the Heritage Express.

For those over 18: Enjoy a thirst quencher and views at the Von Brown Hut.

RICHMOND RANGE 2133m

Terrain Park Car Park Snowmaking

n

T2

LI

n Ru

FT 1500m

Von Brown Hut

Ski Patrol Toilet Café/Refreshments

FIS

CHILL Tip Wax your skis or board if you’re riding ‘The Wall’ on a sunny or warm day. With so much vert you’ll be surprised how much the snow changes as you descend.

Tobogganing

Fu

Oz zi’ sW ay

1620m

Rental Equipment

Base Area 1350m

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Awakino Awakino is a club-operated ski area located high up the St Marys Range, near Kurow in the Waitaki Valley. When you arrive you get the impression that it’s a little different, some use the term old-school. In essence there’s a place to stay, a mountain to ski and one and a half tows to gain easy vertical credits, what else does one need? The beauty of the ski area is its club charm, touring options and how remarkably unchanged it’s remained over the years.

For the mechanically minded you’ll receive a kick out of the main tow, it’s a tractor in a container and has been shuttling people up the mountain since Adam was a cowboy. The access is a little sporting. If you’re not equipped with a 4WD it’s best to phone in advance and one of the clubbies can come down and pick you up. The best part, it’s quiet. A busy day means that you’ll be sharing the mountain with no more than 20-30 people.

For those in the know, Awakino is renowned for deep wind-blown powder; fantastic terrain suiting intermediate to advanced riders; and its pioneering spirit. As it’s generally only open on weekends any snowfall during the week remains untracked, ready to be ripped when your working week is over.

Check List

For the prepared: Book the accommodation, it’s essential to getting enough numbers for the field to open.

For the early season skiers: Maximise vertical by incorporating tussock runs.

For the curious: Spin a yarn to a local, you’ll be glad you did.

Accommodation Awakino operates a 30 bunk alpine lodge that dates back to NZ’s earliest days of skiing. The lodge sits at 1170m, 300m below the base buildings. During winter it’s usually possible to ski down to the accommodation lodge via two side gullies. The lodge has all the usual amenities you’d expect plus extras like an outside deck with a brazier.

Event Profile – Book a ski area As one of the smaller club ski areas, the focus is on running the ski area which leaves little time for events. Every day it’s open is an event, but if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to have most of the field to yourselves, why not hire the entire lodge? For 20 people it’s only $500, $25 dollars a head, awesome!

Programme Profile – Lessons Awakino is run on a real do it yourself attitude.

Occasionally a club member with ski instruction qualifications is available for one-on-one lessons at a reasonable price.

Terrain and Weather Tip The field is situated in a sunny, northeast-facing valley.

Don’t forget your sunscreen and keep an eye on those weather maps during the week, mid-week snowfalls may be tracked out elsewhere but if it’s remained cold chances are a powder day is on the cards.

Club members are happy to show you the best places to go, but bring full avalanche gear as most of it is out-of-bounds.

Summit 1942m

1880m

Fosters Peak 1890m

Ice Cream

Fosters chutes

Ridge tow

Main tow

Glacier Basin

Hut Creek

CHILL Tip Go there – its awesome, an adventure and not many kiwis can say they’ve done it.

Waitaki Face

Day hut 1450m

Learner tow

Arthur’s Gut

Ex-Access Tow run

4WD Access road

ROPE TOW HARNESS

Beginner 10% Intermediate 30% Advanced 60%

Walking access/ traverse

Accom lodge 1170m

www.skiawakino.com

www.chillout.co.nz

i doey! r i d e ! r y jo e t a m i lt j u e e t h t F F o ro r t h e u l t i m a Buy Online Online -- www.chillout.co.nz www.chillout.co.nz Buy Try At CHILL Try At CHILL HQ HQ -- 16 16 Bealey Bealey Ave, Ave, CHCH CHCH

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Fox Peak Fox Peak is one of the smaller ski areas on the CHILL Pass in terms of facilities, but one of the larger when it comes to terrain and its suitability for all abilities. Three easy to ride rope tows access two basins and one wide open slope. A platter lift services the groomed intermediate slope. The ski area is run by a dedicated club who open it on weekends. If snow falls during the week it remains untracked until after the working week.

The access road crosses farm land, so be sure to leave gates as you find them. The road runs off Clayton Road and the field itself is only 35km from Fairlie. A 2WD with chains is usually capable of making it up the road and from the top car park you can stroll onto the field. There’s no gear hire available on the mountain but there are tow belts should you need one for the rope tows.

Accommodation Nestled amongst the trees halfway up the access road is the backpacker style mountain lodge – Fox Lodge. It’s self-catered but a modern kitchen ensures people are able to rustle up dishes of envy.

If you’re looking for first tracks you can book in advance and stay Friday night – contact details are on the website. Please don’t forget your sleeping bag, pillowcase, food and drinks.

Event Profile – Fox Trot The Fox Peak Fox Trot is one of CHILL’s fun events where the aim is to introduce people to one of the quieter ski areas in the country. The format changes year to year, but the consistent features of the event are a baking contest; an overnight stay; an onmountain event; plus a ski tour with the locals for those who are keen. Some lengths are gone to in order to obtain a hot tub for the weekend as a cherry on top of an already awesome weekend.

Programme Profile There are no official programmes but if you’re looking for the best skiing on any day be sure to ask a clubbie, they’re a friendly bunch and don’t mind sharing an untracked run with you. Be sure to check the two great mountain webcams on the club’s website: www.foxpeak.co.nz Terrain and Weather Tip South Basin is often overlooked and regularly contains the best snow. For sunny spring skiing North Basin is the pick. Be sure to keep an eye on those southerly systems as they tend to deliver the goods to Fox Peak.

Check List

For everyone: Sign up for the Fox Trot,

there’s limited spots so first in first served.

For tourers: Summit Fox Peak. Ski either into the Sth or Nth Basin and back to the ski area or explore some amazing backcountry including Fox Peak summit.

For beginners: Once you’ve mastered the platter give the moderate speed Meadow Rope Tow a go.

CHILL Tip

Go explore, there’s a huge amount of terrain on a variety of aspects that make for great skiing and snowboarding.

27-28 July Lodge bookings essential - www.chillout.co.nz

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Southern Lakes Wanaka Set against the pristine backdrop of Mount Aspiring National Park and renowned for crystal clear lakes and rivers, Wanaka is surrounded by six internationally rated ski areas. The township, perched on the edge of Lake Wanaka, is full of a thriving winter culture, great cuisine and an active outdoor community. This is a winter wonderland.

Treble Cone hosts some of the steepest, most exhilarating runs in New Zealand, and also has a great learner’s area for those just starting out. If you’re more into hitting the park, Cardrona and Snow Park pride themselves on their world class terrain parks and also their world class events.

Where to Stay Base Wanaka Excellent location with a variety of room types. Exclusive deals at Mint bar, voted the best entertainment bar in the South Island, and the cheapest travel deals at Base Travel.

73 Brownston St NZ Free Ph: 0800 227 369 E: wanaka@stayatbase.com www.stayatbase.com Don’t Miss Cinema Paradiso – Movie Theatre

Queenstown Snow Sports Shop Cheapskates Wanaka Set in the heart of Southern Lakes snow industry, Cheapskates is feed by skateboarding and snowboarding and have a great selection for everyone. They are number one for customer experience.

Spencer House Mall, Dunmore St

P: +64 3 443 5548 E: wanaka@cheapskates.co.nz www.cheapskates.co.nz Where to Eat Lone Star Cafe & Bar Open 7 days a week. Open fires, tap beers, local wine list, kids menu & play areas. Courtesy coach available.

50 Cardrona Valley Rd P: +64 3 443 6901 www.lonestar.co.nz Red Star Luxury Burgers Kai Whakapai The Spice Room Best Coffee (Wanaka) Cafe Gusto Federal Diner Best Coffee (Queenstown) Vudu Cafe Motogrill

For a breath-taking drive, the Crown Range links Wanaka with Queenstown. The hour and a half journey takes you over the highest main road in New Zealand and into the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown. Two ski areas, The Remarkables and Coronet Peak, are in close proximity.

Queenstown Snowcats are located at Kingston, south end of Lake Wakatipu. Pick up can be arranged in Queenstown.

Cat skiing and boarding is a spine-tingling yet affordable way to enjoy terrain usually only accessible by helicopters. www.queenstownsnowcats.com.

Where to Stay Base Queenstown Centrally located, equipped with dorm rooms and ensuite triples, quads & doubles. Exclusive deals at the biggest party bar in town.

Cheapest travel deals at Base Travel.

47-49 Shotover St NZ Free Ph: 0800 227 369 E: queenstown@stayatbase.com www.stayatbase.com Where to Eat

Lone Star Cafe & Bar Fergburger The Spice Room Flight Park Cafe

Yakitori Daruma Japanese Sake Bar

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Mountain Bike Trails Deans Bank

Dean’s Bank is a purpose built track suitable for nearly all abilities, beginners will have to push some parts. With uphill switch backs and swooping downhills it’s a great ride to build skills and confidence. It’s a 35-50 minute ride and you’ll find the entrance is in the northern corner of the Albert Town Bridge Campground on the West Coast/ Hawea Road.

Wanaka’s Plantation

The plantation above Wanaka provides some seriously fun riding 15 minutes from town. The tracks span from the northern corner of Peninsula Bay all the way down the Clutha River to Albertown.

It’s a mix of smooth, flowing & bermed track plus some technical exposure. The climbs and descents are short but you’ll

soon hit the red line doing laps.

Pick up a map from a local bike shop, head for the top of the Peninsula ...enjoy!

Queenstown

Gibbston River Trail Jacks Point Moonlake Track to Moke Lake Macetown Seven Mile Expert Rides Wynyard Freestyle Park/DH Jardines Park Coal Pit Saddle, Remarkables

www.lakewanaka.co.nz

Around the Mountains

Part of the New Zealand Cycle Trail project, this ride starts on the TSS Earnslaw. Departing at the base of Walter Peak, there is a guided or self-guided day ride to Mavora Lakes and back. The full 5 day ride to Kingston is planned to open November 2013..

See www.licencetoride.co.nz for further details.

Nearby Ski Areas in Southern Lakes.

Mckay.

Treble Cone. Photo: R.

• Treble Cone: 35mins • Cardrona: 35mins • Snow Park: 35mins • Snow Farm: 35mins • Queenstown Snowcats, Qtwn Village • Awakino: 2 hrs Keep your screen clean

Treble Cone

TC Cat

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Treble Cone Located 35 minutes’ drive from Wanaka, Treble Cone is one of the largest commercial ski areas in New Zealand. It boasts the longest vertical rise in the Southern Lakes region. The unique mix of large groomed slopes, high capacity chairlifts, stunning views and legendary off-piste terrain makes TC, as it’s commonly known, a favourite field to many.

The Home Basin is accessed by the 6 seater Home Basin Express chairlift, which offers on and off piste routes varying from easy to challenging. Those looking for more challenging terrain can head skier’s right to reach the Saddle Quad chairlift. From here experts can access the renowned Mototapu Chutes while competent skiers and riders will enjoy the intermediate terrain park, pipe and natural terrain of Saddle Basin.

Those new to skiing are welcomed at Treble Cone, so much so that the Beginners Magic Carpet lift and Nice ‘n’ Easy platter are free! The learner’s slopes are sheltered and sunny, much like the Cafe courtyard where everyone can enjoy treats prepared in house and delicious coffee. If you’re travelling and don’t have your own gear or make the ultimate mistake of leaving your boots behind, never fear; TC has a full rental department with regular and premium skis, free helmet rental for kids and an equipment workshop. Those with young children will be pleased to hear that they also have a child care service, perfect if they need a little time out from a big day on the snow.

Access to TC is gained via a well maintained gravel road suitable for 2WD vehicles carrying chains.

Chains aren’t for hire at TC so make sure you pick

some up on the way. Alternatively you can catch a ride on a bus from Wanaka or Queenstown, or leave your car at the mountain’s base and book a ride on one of the TC Mountain Shuttles.

Accommodation Wanaka comes alive in winter and the social scene rivals any resort town. A compact town centre provides easy access to a wide variety of accommodation, shops, restaurants and services.

There’s a bed for every style and budget, but you’re best to leave the camping for the warmer months.

Event Profile – Pump Mini Mountain To foster the high calibre big mountain skiers and snowboarders that are attracted to Treble Cone’s terrain, they run a great kid’s freeride weekend. The Saturday comprises of tactical ski and board training with TC Freeride Coaches and Sunday sees the groms partake in a two run big mountain event.

Programme Profile – School Holiday Race Camps TC is well known for its high quality training and offers programmes for young and old in a variety of disciplines including backcountry touring. If you have children aged 6-14 who want to ski SL and GS courses stronger and faster, then TC has just the course.

Terrain and Weather Tip With so much skiable terrain and snowmaking, there’s always plenty of white stuff to slide on. Those in the know, who are looking for face shots will certainly visit after a nor’west system.

THE ORIGINAL 3-PIECE BOOT DESIGN

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CHILL Tip Enjoy the chair lift, they’re a bit of a novelty on a CHILL Pass and when the mountain is loaded be sure to fire yourself down the ‘Gun Barrel’.

Check List

For the little ones: Treble Cone is introducing a new Kids Fun Trail in 2013, complete with fun features specifically designed for families and Snow Sports School programs.

For the photo album: Be sure to take a photo from the top overlooking Lake Wanaka.

If you’re not able to ski back down, TC offers scenic chairlift rides too.

For the brave: Swim in Lake Wanaka.

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Methven Heliski.

Methven Heliski.

Nick Sutcliffe, Hanmer Springs Backcountry. Photo: S.Orchard.

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Photo: R.Mckay.

Kane Brown, Broken River. Photo: S.Worsp

Shane Orchard, Mt Olympus. Photo: J.London.

Shane Orchard, Mt Olympus. Photo: J.London.

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Heli Skiing Operators New Zealand’s Southern Alps are blessed with a myriad of heliskiing options and plenty of terrain to explore. The wider Canterbury Region has a number of excellent heliskiing operators all offering professionally guided skiing and riding.

Methven Heliskiing Founded in 1986, Methven Heliski operations are guided by the internationally renowned Alpine Guides (Aoraki) Ltd. Located just 2-hours from Christchurch, Methven Heli has arguably the best range of heliski terrain in NZ including 250+ named runs in the Arrowsmith, Ragged, and Palmer Ranges. Groups rarely cross lines after leaving the helipad at Glenfalloch Station, only meeting up for a gourmet lunch, or drinks at the end of the day. The terrain features glaciated runs, views of both the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea - and drops exceeding 1,000 vertical metres!

P: +64 3 302 8108 E: methven@heliskiing.co.nz www.MethvenHeli.co.nz

Aoraki Mt Cook Heli Tekapo Helicopters and Charlie Hobbs of Southern Alps Guiding offer superb heliskiing in the Aoraki/Mt Cook region. They have exclusive terrain in the Ben Ohau Range overlooking Lake Pukaki and access to other private areas on demand. Your qualified guide will ensure you safely enjoy the best powder snow available in their terrain.

You will be treated to 5 runs with a gourmet lunch in the most stunning environment. Extra runs available. Their experienced mountain pilots have 2 bases to operate out of to maximize your day’s skiing.

Tekapo Helicopters NZ Free Ph: 0800 359 835 E: tekapohelicopters@xtra.co.nz www.tekapohelicopters.co.nz Southern Alps Guiding P: +64 3 4351890

Tai Poutini Polytechnic Ski Patrol Programme This popular programme is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge required to enter the Ski Patrol industry. Starts February 2014, Wanaka Campus.

NZ Free Ph: 0800 800 411 E: info@tpp.ac.nz www.tpp.ac.nz

Helipark.

QTN Snowcats.

Queenstown Snowcats Queenstown Snowcats is NZ’s newest and most unique backcountry riding experience.

Located within the Remarkables Range, QSC offer heli-accesed Cat Skiing in controlled terrain.

Each day consists of 10 runs!!!!

Plus lunch and transfers to and from Queenstown. Great fun, great value and simply the best way to score fresh tracks.

P: +64 27 747 3838 E: qsnowcats@gmail.com

www.queenstownsnowcats.com

Helipark.

Email: qsnowcats@gmail.com

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www.queenstownsnowcats.com

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Ph: 027 747 3838

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Heliskiing Down Under SAM MASTERS

Heliskiing is an expensive cure for the blinding cynicism of modern life. It's an easy way for snow-sports enthusiasts to blow a gasket in their stoke-o-meter without having to freeclimb the north face of the Eiger. Heliskiing or heliboarding is a three-pronged attack on the pleasure synapses located deep in your orbitofrontal cortex: the thrill of the chopper ride, the spiritual exaltation of being high in the alpine environment and the adrenaline/ endorphin surge from riding (hopefully) deep powder.

The anticipation is almost better than the real thing.

The night before you fly you will carefully go through your kit: ensuring your bindings are adjusted correctly, your avalanche gear is sorted and your ride is waxed to perfection. Heliskiing is an effective method to recapture that kid-at-Christmas feeling.

There is no objective description of heliskiing because your opinion says more about what kind of skier or snowboarder you are than anything universal about the experience itself.

For backcountry purists heliskiing is cheating.

Choppers are loud, exciting and dangerous beasts that scent the air with aviation fuel and adrenaline

For skibums living in the mountains and punching out over 50 days a season it is an unjustifiable expense (unless they score a free seat). For the time-poor super wealthy it is the only way to ski.

For many skiers and snowboarders it is a dream – but is it one worth pursuing?

It’s a cheap shot to say that heliskiing is the best riding you will ever do. You can have deeper days within the resort boundary, and enjoy far better terrain that you hike to yourself. But the overall combination is tough to beat and unless you are a dedicated powder fiend, your day in the heli will probably be your best for the season and maybe your best ever.

Choppers are loud, exciting and dangerous beasts that scent the air with aviation fuel and adrenaline. A helicopter is the foremost example of the genius of science: because every shred of your common sense says it will never get off the ground. Depending on whether your pilot fought in Vietnam or not, the

Methven Heliski.

journey will be either far more exciting than your actual riding or merely exhilarating. Given a bit of a nudge the helicopter makes Disneyland’s scariest rollercoaster look like canasta and canapés on the deck of a cruise ship.

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Methven Heliski.

Do and Don'ts...

• Do choose your weapon wisely (fat skis or a powder board).

• Do get fit before you fly – probably the Methven Heliski.

The nauseating realisation that you are suspended in a Perspex and aluminium bubble several hundred metres above terra firma gives you a new appreciation for the fragility of life – and the importance of enjoying every second. The view isn’t bad either and those chunky headphones transmitting the pilot’s chatter lend the whole trip a G.I. Joe thrill.

A chopper doesn’t guarantee you will ride armpitdeep powder that’s lighter than champagne bubbles, whiter than porcelain and subject to plenty more tired magazine clichés. Conditions in the high alpine are usually tastier than in the resort, but if it hasn’t snowed for a while then the wind and sun will have done their work. Usually the best time to go heliskiing is a day or two after a storm. The weather and snow will have settled down and you have already done your homework - by tracking out your local resort.

Heliskiing isn’t like a powder day at your local ski hill. The runs are longer, the lift lines shorter and the lift itself is a little classier. Even more important is the amount of readily accessible pristine terrain.

You pay for snow consistency. Or rather you pay for untracked snow. This being New Zealand you can usually expect to see some variation in the snow during the day (and frequently during one run).

So is heliskiing worth it? For those on a strict budget

crucial factor for getting bang for your buck.

• Do follow your guide’s instructions.

• Do stay away from the tail rotor.

• Don’t kick the snow off your ski boots on the chopper as you climb in the door.

• Don’t jump up to retrieve your hat if it’s blown away by the rotor draught.

Some tasty options: • Aoraki Mt Cook Heli • Methven Heliski • Helipark (If running this year).

it makes exactly no sense to blow the cost of a season pass on a day in the mountains. For the wallet-heavy and heightened-experience junkie: heli time makes a lot of sense. Anyone with a lazy grand in their back pocket does need to ask the question – what exactly is money for? Heliskiing is many things but mainly, as my grandmother used to say, “An investment in living”.

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Slednecking 101 SAM MASTERS

It is a truth, universally acknowledged, that the application of enough raw power quickly takes things from mundane to insane. Really mellow undulating terrain, for example, is not appropriate for skiing or snowboarding but by merely straddling an 800cc turbocharged snowmobile you open up possibilities for adventure, excitement and X-games qualification.

If your only experience of snowmobiling is on a family ‘tour’ gently noodling along a groomed track on a sewing-machine-powered sled, you will be astonished by the power and sophistication of the modern snowmobile. The drive track extends far beyond the seat and the ‘paddles’ (grips on the track) just seem to get longer providing more traction in deep snow. Naturally this requires more grunt and the engine bay bulges with all the subtlety of the Springbok front row.

Snowmobiles are no longer just used for transport but for sport in their own right. Many Canadian skiers and boarders who buy a sled for backcountry access find themselves sliding less and sledding more over the course of winter until they tend to leave their skis or snowboard at home. Personally I find it difficult to believe that anyone would want to stop skiing, but petrol fumes are like Chanel Number 5 to some punters.

Professional snowmobilers now take on beefy terrain that was once the preserve of their pro skier and snowboarder counterparts; including huge cliff drops and jumps (the current world record is 110 metres). Unlike gravity sports, ‘slednecks’ can do all their tricks uphill as well.

In New Zealand snowmobilers are a small but increasing minority. For a taste of sledneck culture try the annual Roundhill Skidoo hill climb (this year

on the 17th of August). This is a ‘high marking’ event where – you guessed it - the rider who leaves the highest track on the face wins.

Sledding is a sport with significant barriers to entry.

Although it is possible to go on snow mobile tours in New Zealand most won’t let you ride a sled in deep powder; you tend to stick to packed, and usually groomed, trails on an under-powered machine. The first few times you ride a sled in deep powder you will probably spend more time digging it out than riding (the snowmobile tends to sink as soon as you stop). Buying a sled requires a significant financial outlay and questions must be asked whether this money would be better spent on heli time, CHILL passes, Botox or remodelling your kitchen.

New Zealand is not Canada – where snow to the valley floor means you can ride straight up to the hills from your accommodation. At some interior British Columbia towns it’s not unusual to see forty sleds pulled up outside the pub on Saturday night. In New Zealand access to the snow is always a problem. The trailhead is usually a long way from the tarmac and you will need a specially set up trailer or truck. The shorter winter and difficulties of finding a qualified repair technician are also headaches.

Like many of the most enjoyable things in life snowmobiling is easy to do, but difficult to do

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well. It’s not exactly like any other motor sport and overconfidence (“heh, I rode a dirt bike once!”)

When in doubt pin it out usually gets newbies into trouble. Timidity is equally problematic; that’s why slednecks say, “When in doubt pin it out”. an extra pip on the throttle to remind onlookers that they control a mighty beast twixt their legs.

The powerful engine totally redefines how you look at snow covered terrain. You can have more fun on Ian Bright from Atomic is well aware of the perils of the way up. Any snow-covered topography becomes snowmobiling in New Zealand, “It’s a bush bashing a horizontal terrain park with the addition of game in NZ. Be prepared to ride it up gravel 4WD enough horsepower. roads (the sled that is, not the truck/trailer towing it).

Not quite the Canadian snowmobiling we dream of.”

Some might question the environmental credentials Ian is a man who rarely makes a rookie move – on or of snowmobiling but hopefully not the same people off the hill – so his best advice for budding slednecks who drive a large SUV up to the ski hill to ride dieselwas something of a surprise to this correspondent: powered ski lifts all day. Backcountry skiers enjoying “Don’t buy a long track 800cc sled as your first sled. the tranquillity of the wilderness have a better eco Remember to take the hand brake off before take-off argument. Especially when buzzed by slednecks with to avoid the smell of melting ski boot plastic.”

The power of a sled means you can be a long way from anywhere when things go pear shaped.

Prudence calls for one member of your sled posse to know how to actually fix the things. Prudence, however, can be annoying so it’s no surprise she is often left at home on backcountry missions. Only the disastrous ones, though. Heli-evacuating your busted sled from deep in the backcountry is humiliating and expensive but at least it means you got out alive.

Snow sports magazines sometimes lay it on a bit thick about the dangers of avalanche, injury and hypothermia but it is always a good idea to know what you are doing, and if not travel with someone who does.

Easy snowmobiling options in New Zealand: Richmond Range along from the Roundhill Ski Area.

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Backcountry Snow Safety The Southern Alps has shaped South Island’s landscape, their daunting natural beauty, snow capped peaks and powerful presence, makes them very special. From the air, the Alps are a mass of interconnected ridges, valleys, braided rivers and mighty peaks. On the ground the terrain is huge, both inviting and unknown, with life threatening hazards and risks.

All of CHILL’s mountains access great backcountry terrain. A number of ski area tows finish at a peak or the ridge line, opening a variety of terrain choices.

Inside the ski area boundaries, the ski area snow safety crew are responsible for managing snow stability and controlling avalanche risks. Outside of the ski area boundaries, the responsibility is with the skier/ rider. If you exit the ski area boundaries you and your party must be ready and prepared to handle a rescue situation on your own.

Avalanches are a natural part of the mountain environment.

Snow safety knowledge helps to minimize your chances of getting caught in a slide. Know before you go. Carrying the right gear, and knowing how to use it also saves lives.

There are some key elements to maximizing your safety when entering these un-controlled areas: Know before you go.

Plan and prepare for a safe trip by following the Outdoor Safety Code Do a snow-safety course. A First Aid course is also recommended.

Do some research. Check www.avalanche.net.nz for their assessment of the current snow conditions. Know the weather forecast and talk with local ski patrol for an initial assessment.

Get permission. Obey all closed signs at ski areas, and when travelling across farm boundaries (for access) ask permission.

Get to know your gear. Always carry technical equipment, plus spare warm clothing. Regular games with your transceiver will freshen up your skills and keep a close eye on battery life; remove during long periods of non-use.

Do not travel on your own.

Travel with a buddy who knows how to use their gear.

Leave your intentions with someone. Tell someone your plans and leave a date and time for when to raise the alarm if you do not return. Use the simple online tools at www.adventuresmart.org.nz.

Photo: NZMSC.

If leaving from within a ski area boundary register your intentions with ski patrol.

Be prepared. Know your limits and take sufficient supplies.

More info at www.mountainsafety.org.nz

Snow Safety Courses Broken River Courses MSC Avalanche Awareness (Sunday night & Monday full day) • July 15-16 • July 28-29 • Sept 9-10 Off-Piste Ski Clinic For Backcountry Riders • July 17 • July 30 • Sept 11 Four-Day MSC Backcountry Avalanche Training Course • July 18-21 • July 31- Aug 3 • Sept 12-15 1/2 day Guided Backcountry Ski Tours • July 22 • July 28 • Sept 16-17 To book courses and accommodation, email bookings@brokenriver.co.nz

Avalanche awareness, advisories and info

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NZ Mountain Safety Council The NZMSC runs avalanche and alpine training courses in selected locations as well as provide backcountry avalanche advisory information throughout the season Below are the Canterbury and Wanaka dates and contact info.

For full course information, locations and to book online visit www.mountainsafety.org.nz and click on courses.

Avalanche Awareness for Skiiers & Snowboarders The avalanche awareness programme gives introductory information for people looking for basic knowledge required to help make decisions in avalanche terrain. The course provides foundation knowledge only. An evening lecture is given and a field trip over a weekend day.

Canterbury (YMCA/Mt Cheeseman) • July 5 (evening) / 7 (field day), • Jul 26 / 27 • Jul 26 / 28 • Aug 2 / 4 • Sep 6 / 7 • Sep 6 / 8 Wanaka • July 5 / 6 • Aug 9 / 10 • Aug 23 / 24 • Sep 6 / 7 • Sep 20 / 21 Canterbury P: +64 3 313 0507 E: canterbury@mountainsafety.org.nz Wanaka P: +64 3 409 2025 E: wanaka@mountainsafety.org.nz

The New Zealand Snow Safety Institute (NZSSI) Located in the world renowned Temple Basin Ski Area, The New Zealand Snow Safety Institute offers a variety of specialist courses tailored to a range of alpine activities including mountaineering, rock climbing and avalanche awareness for skiers and snowboarders. All courses include accommodation and meals.

Avalanche Awareness • Jul 13-14 • Aug 3-4 • Aug 17-18 5-Day Mountain Skills Jul 29-2 Skiers & Snowboarders Otago Polytechnic & MSC Avalanche 1 • Aug 4-10 Mountaineering & rock climbing courses also available. Private courses available throughout the season upon request.

P: +64 3 377 7798 E: info@nzssi.com www.nzssi.com

CHILL Snow Safety Courses CHILL’s snow safety courses provide an introduction to some, or recap to others, of avalanche formation and release, terrain identification, route finding and decision making along with equipment selection and use and companion rescue. Spaces are limited, four sets of T/S/P avail.

1-Day course w/ Shane Orchard An intensive hands-on avalanche awareness course specifically designed to improve the skills of skiers and riders who may be venturing into the backcountry.

• Jun 29

• Aug 10

Sunday weather day, other dates avail

Cost: $95 2-Day course w/ Anna Keeling An introduction to the avalanche phenomenon and companion rescue techniques. The interplay of weather, snowpack and terrain plus decision making in the face of tempting powder, is the focus of the weekend. Day one: learn to use transceivers and effect a rescue, use the MSC Avalanche Forecast Advisory and techniques to evaluate snowpack stability.

Day 2: Travel through and learn about avalanche terrain.

• Jul 27-28

• Aug 9-10

Demand dependent.

Cost: $195/2 days

Register at: www.chillout.co.nz P: +64 3 365 6530 E: hq@chillout.co.nz

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Fresh Tracks SLACK & CONNECT

For many, the side or slackcountry is a great way of scoring fresh tracks and honing snow safety skills. Just remember, your party will be outside the patrolled area and as tempting as those fresh tracks may be, appropriate knowledge, equipment and snow safety care is required. Local shredstresses share some of their favourite slackcountry and what’s on offer once you travel a little further afield.

Tarn Basin Amanda Power One of the easiest backcountry areas to access in my back yard is Tarn Basin. After a quick drive up to Mt Cheeseman, a mandatory coffee, and a couple of T-bar rides you’re on the ridge, ready to go. If you’re the ultimate ‘slackcountry’ skier you can ski Tarn Basin without any hiking at all, just drop-in straight from the Ridge T-bar and traverse back out after a short run.

For those who want longer runs it’s worth picking a line further along the ridge and skiing down to the tarn (mountain lake) or further down if the snow’s there. Tarn Basin is massive with some great natural features. Access out of the basin is back up to the ridge and into the ski area. Having touring gear will definitely speed up your climb, but generally boot packing is fine. Tarn Basin is clearly visible from the Highway, be sure to check out your lines in the rear view mirror on your way home.

...a smorgasbord of great lines just waiting to be devoured.

Little Alaska & Ryton Valley Alex Brook Last year I skied Little Alaska for the first time and I was instantly addicted to Mt Olympus. Either side of Mt O’s top tow you will find boot packs which take you straight up to the ridge that hugs the ski area. After 20 minutes of hiking you are straddling the ridge and standing on a smorgasbord of great lines just waiting to be devoured. Fresh snow, tight chutes, open bowls, it has everything but crowds of people!

Dropping over the ridge towards Porters you’ll find the Ryton Valley and a track back to the Bottom Hut, the perfect way to finish a day with extra vertical

credits. On the opposing side you’ll find the ‘Drain Pipe’, simply hike to the top of little Alaska and follow the Wilberforce downstream. A large face presents itself and a series of lines funnel into one large chute, spitting you out back at the start of the bottom tow.

eric

HOJI HJORLEIFSON

“Finally a boot that can handle 12 hours a day hiking, climbing and shredding big lines at high speeds – skiing the way i like to ski.” www.dynafit.com

Vulcan tF

radical Ft

athlete: eric hjorleifson, photo: bryan ralph

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100.

TC: Beyond the Boundary

Miek Deuninck

When I ask a jaded Wanaka local (whose credibility was confirmed by gloves and pants that boast more duct tape than glove and pant) about the backcountry ski-touring up TC, he gets on Google Earth to show me and comments “It’s incomprehensible really, there’s just so much.”

I decided to check it out for myself. After stopping for a chat at the TC patrol office (an absolute must) we head out the backcountry gate and up Tower’s ridge. The views alone are worth the effort, nothing short of incredible. It’s hard to contain your excitement and not ski down the first untracked piece of terrain you encounter, it’s everywhere.

That afternoon we lapped the Back Bowls and the not-so-slackcountry got me hooked. This season, I’ll be out earning my duct tape.

the not-so-slackcountry got me hooked Mueller Hut Margot Bohanon After an epic late winter heli-ski in Mt. Aspiring National Park, Ben Savill and I made our way to Mt Cook National Park for a ski touring trip to Mueller Hut. Legs still heavy and burning from the day before, we began the trudge. All pains were soon forgotten as the mountains and glaciers opened up into view.

Stopping for lunch at Sealy Tarns we put our skins on while overlooking Mt Sefton and Mt Cook and were treated to the rumbling and tumbling of avalanches cascading off the surrounding mountains, making one feel rather insignificant.

After an afternoon of skinning and skiing we arrived at a snowed in Mueller Hut surprised to find we were the only lodgers. We continued to skin up Mt Oliver and across the Sealy Range looking into Annette Plateau and Metelille Glacier.

After a cold night in the hut we were greeted with 5cm of fresh and still snowing. An updated forecast indicated the next weather window was a few days away so the decision was made to abandon the freezer. We were stoked to arrive back at the car after an interesting decent involving some sweet powder turns with bittersweet flat light and, at times, struggling to find the safe route down.

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FISCHERSKI.CO.NZ

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Valley of the Crow SHANE ORCHARD

Arthur’s Pass is a great area to find backcountry with a bigger mountain feel than that typically in the Craigieburns. Whether it be that the mountains are big, guarded by bush, or the more intricate terrain, there’s a definite feel to travelling in these parts, very deserving of National Park status. With Temple Basin being the only ski area in the park, there’s a fair chance that ski touring and riding in Arthur’s Pass will involve walking, scrub bashing, or quite likely both. Fortunately there’s an excellent track network branching off the main highway providing plenty of options for tthe more adventurous.

First up though we should mention a word of caution, the area can be dangerous in winter.

Several combinations of conditions common here need to be avoided by anyone thinking of going backcountry. These include steep slopes and gullies frequently ending in cliffs, large snowfalls, pockets of heavily loaded snow, rapid warm-ups, and frequent rain-on-snow events. All of these can spell disaster including being avalanched from above while in the valleys! If in doubt, just head to Temple Basin which has phenomenal terrain within the ski area boundary.

The easiest options for touring also happen to be in the vicinity of Temple Basin with several bowls being very accessible from the ski area. The next level of adventure involves using the walking track network to get above the bushline and into the alpine. Here there are plenty of options including the Otira Valley, Avalanche Peak, Mt Bealey, and Mt Aitken Tracks. These all lead to exceptional touring terrain

when the conditions are safe. With the exception of Mt Aitken all of these tracks lead to slopes that are generally north facing and sunny, not a great situation if you’re looking for powder or safety. So the next level of adventure involves going that little bit further to find new terrain and shady slopes where powder may be lurking; Trouble is, this likely puts you on the back side of the mountain heading in the opposite direction from the road!

The Crow Valley is one of these zones and has been the scene of some ski exploration over the last couple of seasons. There are several possible ways in and there's the option to walk out down the valley to the Waimakariri as an exit route. Of course the valley is also host to the well-known ‘Avalanche Peak Challenge’ adventure race which makes good use of this approach and involves going up and over Avalanche Peak from the village.

The biggest feature in the valley is of course Mt Rolleston and the imposing Crow Face which sits at the head of the valley. It’s also home to the Crow glacier, an accessible piece of glaciated ski touring terrain. Skiing the whole line leaves you a long way

On those cold winter mornings you want a good honest cup of joe, something to get the motor running for a big day on those slopes. C4 stout is your friend, a smooth rich drop with a smokey hint, perfect in a plunger or stored in a thermos for that afternoon top up.

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Once at the hut you certainly know that you’re quite a way from town from home, however, it is a bona-fide powder trap well worth the effort. Depending on how your legs are feeling it’s possible to do a day trip from the road to here and climb out of the valley towards Rome Ridge and the Coral Track for the exit, highly recommended!

Heading back to Rolleston’s Low Peak and down the Otira Valley is another option but not so good as the Otira Slide slope as it gets very warm and unstable in the afternoon and is generally not a good place to be at that time of day.

If none of the above sounds good then packing your overnight gear and staying in the valley is the other way to go. Luckily there’s a hut (Crow Hut) which provides a good base for all sorts of hiking, touring, or climbing missions (bookable through the Arthur’s w Clay Roehner, Cro Photo: S.Orchard.

Glacier.

Pass DOC office). Last season we checked it out to get in position for trips on Mt Stewart and Guinevere and it was well worth the visit. It also has a wood fire to boot which is becoming a rarity these days!

Once at the hut you certainly know that you’re quite a way from town, but it’s nice to have the security of good shelter and the track system down valley. That said, the escape route is not exactly guaranteed, the track out involves several crossings of the Crow River. You need to factor in at least two crossings of the larger Waimakariri River before you make it to the road end, a lack of rain in the forecast is highly desirable! The other option is to go out over Avalanche Peak to the village which involves some navigational work. For all of these options reading up on the route descriptions on DOC’s website is a must so you know what you’re in for.

Nick Sutcliffe, Avalanche Peak.

Photo: S.Orchard.

Happy travels this winter and if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous then think about a visit to the Arthur’s Pass area. Get yourself up to Temple Basin to start with, talk to some of the locals and make a few plans from there. It’s an awesome part of New Zealand and well worth the effort.

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The Ski Week.

RYAN CHARMLEY

Well what is a ski week? The title is a bit of a giveaway but from my experience it’s a little more than the sum of the days. As a fairly average snowboarder I benefit from time on the snow and like a leper, I find I need a little time to find my feet. Loosely speaking, my problem skiing weekends is that by the time I warm up and start riding well, by my standards, work comes knocking and spoils the party. One of the highlights of skiing for a week is exactly that. If the weather gods permit, you’re able to ski as much as you normally would in a month or more. The benefit, your skiing improves and you explore much more of the mountain, choice! (By now you’d have notice I use skiing and snowboarding interchangeably, read it as it suits you).

Obvious benefits to lodge life include the meals, it doesn’t matter what mountain you choose! After a day’s skiing a delicious home cooked meal is as appealing as a boiler suit to a communist. The lodges are also full of like-minded individuals, a few simple chores to keep the place in running order always provides a great forum for general chit chat. By the time you’re past skiing small talk, any children are tucked up in bed the grownups start solving the world’s problems and pitching revolutionary ideas

WE MAKE THE GREAT DAYS BETTER

TOM BROWNLEE

(generally aided with a little vino and a single malt).

After lights out, dreams are sweetened with the thought that any fresh snowfall will be reserved for you and the other ski weekers, first up best dressed.

After a few days it’s funny how you transcend the traditional consumer-provider relationship and start feeling like part of the ski area. Not in a way where one is crucial to the place’s success or failure, but more of an ‘at home’ feeling. The more time you spend on a mountain, the more you witness and absorb its culture and operation. I believe that many

Studies show that skiing is fun and that fun is good for you therefore you should do more of it.

of the quirks of club field skiing are best experienced in this manner, your exposure to so many facets of the mountain lead to experiences you’ve only dreamed of accruing in a month of Sundays, literally. A few examples that spring to my mind are hot tub initiations, table traverses, fixing rope tows, fashion faux pas, impromptu full moon night skiing sessions, human and alpine exposure, straight ski bon-fires, musical recitals

PHOTO: F RASER MCDOUGAL L

Fresh from writing an article in the esteemed New Zealand Wharf Jumping Annual, I sat down with Stu from CHILL for a quality cup of coffee (C4’s Cuban bean, he swears by it) and a yarn about this year’s mag. He had two pages to fill and was looking for a talented journalist to populate the matt finish mag with moving material. I wished him luck but offered to write a ‘stuff.co.nz’ worthy sensationalised opinion piece on ‘the ski week experience’. Deal!

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Broken River, Sam Wor sp.

Broken River. Photo: J.Harrison.

and lose-lose card games with West Coast publicans.

Did I mention heaps of skiing and snowboarding?

Now I’m not one to brag, well actually I am! The only problem is that it’s pretty easy to cut my lunch. If I’m staring back at a line that I’m stoked on, some kid will blast pass and put me to shame. If someone asks how many days I’ve skied this season it’s bound to be outdone, but at least with a ski week I’ll be competitive.

New Zealand’s a short season and injecting seven fun filled days will do wonders for anyone keeping tally, but hey who’s really counting, skiing’s not about who skied the most, it’s about who had the most fun…….. (says the person who skied less).

What about the feel good factors? Well there are two, yours and the nations. Firstly yours; Studies show that skiing is fun and that fun is good for you therefore you should do more of it. When it’s time to return to reality you’ll be the envy of your workmates that will wish that they could trade their life for yours. As holidays come, you won’t find many cheaper than a ski week, they’re fantastic value and if you were contemplating a northern hemisphere trip you’ll save a small fortune by electing to ski at home. After a ski week not only will you be smiling but so too will your bank balance and Kiwi economists when they’re not eradicating cats. This is the second feel good factor, not only

does your skiing benefit you for yourself, but also your country. The kiwi ski week is buying NZ made, creating jobs, promoting growth and ensuring the sustainability of New Zealand ski areas.

So the verdict! The humble ski week, great fun and your civic duty, damn! To say a ski week is seven times more fun that a day’s skiing simply undersells it. For me, the ski week experience is something intangible, added to great times and great skiing it makes fantastic food for the soul.

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A Breeding Ground CHILL EVENTS

Stu @ CHILL Gromfest. Mt Cheeseman.

In addition to the daily operations of the Licence to CHILL multi-mountain pass, CHILL also runs a host of on and off mountain events. These range from fun and free events that don’t take themselves too seriously, through to the internationally renowned 2-Star Freeride World Tour Qualifying (FWQ) events.

Skiing and snowboarding is a priority for CHILL and grassroots to elite competitions provide a pathway for progression, fostering young Kiwi groms on their path to hard charging competent snow sliders.

It all starts with the Gromfest, a series of events for children aged 6-12, but don’t let the age restriction put you off, there’s been children as young as three getting involved. The emphasis is on participation and fun. ‘Competitors’ register in the morning and depending on the mountain and conditions, there will usually be a gate race or off piste competition, followed by a bbq lunch and then a freestyle event in the afternoon. The day is rounded off with a prize giving attended by competitors and proud parents alike.

The Gromfest series takes place in weekends and there are legs at Porters, Mt Cheeseman and Roundhill. The series is full of many familiar faces as families return each year. There are always a few newcomers to the scene and some that disappear as they grow out of it. For the ones that drop out they’re not lost nor forgotten, many progress to CHILL’s next stepping stone event, the Junior Big Mountain.

Recognising that there was a lack of competition for teenagers, before reaching open competition age, CHILL developed the Junior Big Mountain as an opportunity to gain big mountain competition experience. For many of the younger skiers it’s their first taste of competitive big mountain skiing. Not wanting to throw kids into the

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CHILL Jr Big MTN.

deep end, the Junior Big Mountain is as much about mentoring budding freeriders and a workshop with professional athletes gives valuable insights into big mountain riding, competition and the FWQ lifestyle.

For the returning skiers and riders the routine becomes more and more familiar with every year of competition. Over the last three years the level of competition has skyrocketed to the point where a series of wild card entries are handed out to those deemed capable of holding their own in the open competitions. Past wild card recipients include Craig Murray, Ollie Hunt, Jamesa Hampton and George Pengelly who have all gone on to compete in FWQ events with outstanding success. For some there have been solid results mixed with mishaps, all part and parcel of big mountain competition.

CHILL’s Freeride Would Tour Qualifying events consist of the K2 Big Mountain and the Black Diamond Big Mountain, which alongside the Junior Big Mountain make up the CHILL Series. The K2 Big Mountain is dually hosted by Craigieburn and Mt Olympus. For the Black Diamond Big Mountain, competitors head west and ascend Temple Basin. The terrain at these venues is simply world class and attracts New Zealand’s top freeride athletes as well as top European, Canadian, US and Japanese athletes; in fact, 8 of the top 15 2013 FWQ performers competed in the 2012 CHILL Series.

The beauty of the K2 and Black Diamond events are that they’re equally valued by competitors and spectators alike. While the athletes compete for qualifying points in the pursuit of making the Freeride World Tour, spectators can sit back in the sun and watch all the action unfold on their favourite local mountains. With competitors straight-lining tight chutes, jumping enormous cliffs and pushing what’s possible (and sane) on skis and snowboards, it’s one hell of a show. The best bit is that the Kiwis are competitive, the Europeans may be some of the fastest skiers you’ll see (or not see if you blink) but the Kiwis on their home turf simply rip. In fact, we’ve had many athletes represent New Zealand on the world stage at the pinnacle of big mountain competition, the one and only Freeride World Tour.

Names of old include Geoff Small, Hamish Acland and Todd Windle, in recent year’s there’s Janina Kuzma, Maria Kuzma, Neil Williman and Sam Smoothy and as of last year, Charlie Lyons.

Looking at New Zealand’s history of big mountain performers and our current representatives, it’s exciting to see the depth of talent currently emerging. The common element that our best freeriders share is that they all started young. So next time you see a grom with a gaper gap (the pronounced region where the goggles have failed to make contact with the helmet.) and 50 cent mixture at the Gromfest just think that they may well be flying the New Zealand flag on the world stage in 15 years’ time.

Michael Weber.

2013 Mt Cheeseman Sat 13 July

Porters

Sat 20 July

Roundhill Sat 7 Sept

Weather Day

Sunday Groms 6-13 years More info online hq@chillout.co.nz www.chillout.co.nz

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Master's Bucket List JOHN DUNNE

John Dunne is at home in the Craigieburns as he is in front of a microphone. The Breeze broadcaster, PR person and auctioneer is an easily recognisable regular at Porters, in part by his exuberant personality and in part by his bright orange Mountain Host jacket.

A cab driver will tell you the best way to experience a new city is to ride with them, the same goes for skiing, ski with a local and they’ll be sure to show you the good bits. John has taken on his ski ambassador’s role to a new level this season and not only wants to showcase his home mountain but also wants to showcase skiing in general. We sat down for a ski chat with John and asked him about his brand new Master’s Programme.

Seniority: 58th Year Sounds: Pink Floyd, The Eagles, Pogues and Irish Rebel sounds.

Sticks: Fischer Wateas, love them!

Masters first time ski experience which I’ll host and coach.

Is snow in your blood?

Yip, I was snowed in from a young age between rugby scrums.

For some, the Master’s Programme will be a sort of ‘bucket list’ adventure and for others a re-introduction to skiing.

Feeding the passion, where’s home when the snow falls?

The passion is Castle Hill Mountain Village. We are in the third decade of owning a wee house a stone’s throw from the Craigieburns and Porters.

What level of skiing does the Master’s Programme suit?

We’re aiming it at those who might think they’re too old to have a go through to those who may have a day or two up their sleeves already. It’ll be painless and fun – it has to be, ‘cos I don’t have much in the way of knees left myself!

What was your winter highlight in 2012?

For 2012 it was more time in Crystal Valley and beyond with the amazing Porters family! (Definitively to be repeated in 2013).

We’ve heard you’ve recently taken on a new initiative at Porters in 2013?

Porters is my preferred place to ski, it’s the traditional home to Chch skiers and it’s so friendly to all. A few years ago Uli Dinsenbacher (our legendary General Manager who’s been at Porters nearly as long as the mountain itself) introduced a Hosting programme, where the locals look out for you; We’re now taking that a step further with a

Coffee & biscuit break in the morning and pie & a pint in the afternoon? Or should that be a pinot & cheeseboard?

Yeah the lot, pies, cookies, beers, barbies, pinot, cheeseboards and dancing, we’ll make it special!

Any suggestions for pre-season training?

Pre-season…………? How about some walking and stretching. We’ll pray for nice days and creamy snow, rest assured I’m a great believer in ‘still standing’ when the day is done.

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What should participants expect on the programme?

I envisage the programme, above all else, as being fun!

We’re not going to agonise over perfect technique, rather strive to ensure a great experience through sound and safe practice.

We’d love to think it’s a reacquaintance with skiing for some, while for others, an introduction to something that is achievable and better still, motivate participants to subsequently introduce their wider whanau, grandkids, friends and the like to snow sports.

What are your top tips on attire?

Anything warm and waterproof. As for gear, the package includes rental so you get the very latest equipment anyway. No need to stress as the Porter’s rental crew are experts in ‘good fits’.

Where to after the programme?

For masters, mistresses and all beginners, young and old, the Porter’s Passport is the perfect way to affordably advance your skills with our highly qualified Snow Sports School.

It’ll be painless and fun – it has to be, ‘cos I don’t have much in the way of knees left myself!

PORTERS - MASTERS FIRST TIME SKI EXPERIENCE WITH JOHN DUNNE Location: Porters Ski Area Duration: Every Tuesday, 9am - 4pm.

Purpose: To provide an easily accessible and enjoyable introduction to skiing for adults keen to give skiing a go.

Cost: $105/day pp.

Includes: Welcome and introduction with John, learner lift pass for the day, equipment rental, beginner ski instruction, complimentary apres coffee or house wine and a certificate of achievement.

If one day’s not enough: The new Master’s programme can be used as the first day of a Porters Passport, if desired.

How to buy: Contact Porters on 03 318 4002, email info@skiporters.co.nz or buy online at www.skiporters.com

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Events Calander 2013 For all mountain events and for further details on those listed, please visit mountain websites and www.chillout.co.nz.

Broken River

Mt Lyford

Aug 10 Ski Rogaine

Sept 7 Mt Lyford Masters

Aug 12 -16 Telemark Week

Hanmer Springs

Aug 17 - 18 R&R Sport Freeheel Fun Wkend

Aug 3 - 4 Rams Head Downhill

Aug 17 Beer Tasting Evening

Aug 10 Bacardi Cup

Aug 31 - Sept 1 Quicksilver/ Skullcandy Ridercross Sept 7 - 8 Kid’s Weekend Sept 14 - 15 King Of The Hill Ski Randonee Sept 21 - 22 CHILL Junior Big Mountain Camp Sept 28 BBQ Cook Off Craigieburn July 13 New to CV day July 27 Off Piste Clinic Aug 10 - 11 (weather day) CHLL Jnr Big Mtn Series Aug 23 - 25 K2 Big Mtn CHILL Series (FWQ) Aug 31 CV Club Champs Sept 14 Retro Ski and Hotdog Day

Aug 24 Flare Skiing & Farmers Cup Aug 25 Club Champs Mt Cheeseman July 13 - 14 (weather day) CHILL Gromfest: Dual Downhill & GS July 21 Skiercross & Boardercross July 28 All Schools Race Practice Day Aug 1 Swiss National Day Aug 6 Canterbury Secondary School Race Champs Aug 10 - 11 Cheeseman Club Champs Aug 14 Accountants & Lawyers Corporate Day

Oct 5 CV Beach Party

Aug 21 Architects and Engineers Corporate Day

Mt Olympus

Aug 25 Primary & Intermediate School Race Champs

Aug 10 Alpine Curling Aug 17 - 18 (weather day) CHLL Jnr Big Mtn Series Sept 14 - 15 WOW (Women of Winter)

Sept 7 ThermaTech Undie 500 Sept 15 Pirate Day Sept 21 Club Party at Snowline

Fox Peak July 27 - 28 Fox Trot Aug (TBC) Club Champs Mt Dobson Aug 18 Aoraki Secondary School Champs Sept 1 Mt Dobson Club Champs TBC 20 Below Rugby in the Snow Porters July 14 Piri’s Winnie Bagoes Family Fun Day July 20 - 21 (weather day) CHILL Gromfest: Freeride & Freestyle TBC Armada Ratbag Tour Aug 3 - 4 Gnomes/Rossignol/Armada Womens Workshop Weekend Aug 10 - 11 McNulty’s Super-Cross Aug 21 Rossignol Canterbury Secondary Schools Freestyle / Freeride Aug 24 - 25 Winnie Bagoes Community Park Jam Aug 28 Dynastar/Lange Canterbury Independent Primary Schools Championships Sept 7 - 8 Mission WOW – Women’s Backcountry Weekend Sept 15 Becks Porters Oktoberfest Sept 22 Speights Summit Retro Gear & Air

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Rainbow

Roundhill

July 20 More FM - Family Fun Day

Aug 3 80’s Day

Aug 17 Rainbow Club Champs

Aug 10 Karl Burtscher Snr Memorial GS

Aug 20 AMI - Intersecondary School Champs

Aug 17 The Surface Ski’s ‘Who’s Your Daddy’ Downhill

Aug 24 - 25 Atomic Masters

Aug 24 Soul Surf & Skate Snow Jam

Sept 6 - 7 The Edge Mid Term Break

Aug 31 Father’s Day at Roundhill

Sept 11 AMI Primary / Intermediate Champs

Sept 7 - 8 (weather day) CHILL Gromfest: Dual Slalom & Freestyle

Sept 21 Rainbow Slush Challenge

Treble Cone

Temple Basin July 6 - 7 Buddy Pass Weekend July 13 - 14 Temple Basin Mountain Festival Aug 3 - 4 Temple Basin Line Junior Freeski Comp (Jnr CHILL Series)

Aug 8 (TBC) Treble Cone Ski Masters Aug 11 Interfield Series

CHILL Jnr Big Mtn Camp Broken River: Sept 21-22 Aimed at fostering young big mountain talent, the CHILL Junior Big Mountain Camp teams up budding free riders with seasoned big mountain mentors for a weekend clinic focusing on tips, techniques and decision making. www.chillout.co.nz CHILL Jnr Big Mtn Series Temple Basin (Aug 3), Craigieburn (Aug 10) & Mt Olympus (Aug 17): New this year, the CHILL Junior Big Mountain series sees three back to back weekends of Junior Big Mountain competition. Never before have young South Island freeriders had an opportunity to gain so much competition experience in just one season. www.chillout.co.nz

Sept 7 (TBC) PUMP Mini Mountain Sept 14 (TBC) Wanaka Workers Race

FEATURE EVENTS

Aug 10 - 11 Fire + Ice Party Aug 17 - 18 Gnomes Freeride Weekend Aug 21 - 27 Family Weekend Aug 24 - 25 Endurance Race. New in 2013!

Aug 30 - 1 Sept Black Diamond Big Mtn CHILL Series (FWQ) Sept 7 - 15 Speedflying Week with Laszlo Czismadia Sept 14 - 15 SplitFest Sept 28 - 29 Future Party - Wind on Time Oct 5 - 6 Beach Daze

ThermaTech Undie 500 Mt Cheeseman: Sept 7 Strip down to your undies and join the fun negotiating creative challenges down the slopes and strutting your stuff at the ‘Undie Parade’. All entries guaranteed a prize! market@mtcheeseman.co.nz www.mtcheeseman.co.nz WOW Wellness Retreat Week Craigieburn Range: Sept 9 - 13 It’s all in the title: Yoga, skiing 5 club fields, backcountry safety, nutrition and personal development workshops at the Enviro Ed Centre in the Craigieburn Forest Park. www.missionwow.org

CHOCOLATE

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Contacts - Accommodation, Activities, Essentials Christchurch

Commodore Airport Hotel

03 358 8129

Kiwi Base Camp

0800 505 025

Vintage Bike Hire

03 365 6530

Pye Electrical

03 365 0907

Riccarton Clinic

03 343 3661

Winnie Bagoes City Centre Ferrymead

03 366 6315 03 376 4900

C4 Coffee

0800 24 263 333

St Arnaud Nelson Lakes Motel Travers-Sabine Lodge

03 521 1887

Kaikoura Adelphi Lodge & Backpackers

03 319 5141

Kaikoura Kayaks

0800 452 456

Encounter Kaikoura

0800 733 365

Arthur’s Pass The Bealey Hotel

03 318 9277

The Sanctuary

03 942 2230

Ashburton Bella Vista Motels

0800 235 528

Hotel Ashburton

0800 330 880

Tinwald Motel

0800 846 9253

0800 227 369 03 443 6901

YHA National: Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs, Christchurch, Springfield, Arthur’s Pass, Tekapo , Wanaka, Queenstown. 0800 278 299

Transport Alpine Expeditions CHC

0800 75 44 88

Speight’s Ale House

03 308 5980

Braided Rivers Restaurant

Black Diamond Safaris

027 450 8283

03 307 2541

The Chain Man

03 3661 528

03 307 5899

Hanmer Adventure Ski Area Shuttle

03 315 7233

Interislander Wgtn to Picton

0800 802 802

Kiwi Base Camp Tours CHC

0800 505 025

The Somerset Grocer

Methven Abisko Lodge, Apartments & Campground

0508 224 756 03 302 9575

Methven Travel

0800 684 888

Mighty Campers

0800 422 267

03 319 6555

The Blue Pub

03 302 8046

Mt Lyford Express

03 319 5641

The Brown Pub

03 302 8045

NZ Snow Tours

Methven Sports Massage

03 302 8323

Methven i-SiITE

03 302 8955

Mt Lyford 03 315 6446

Hanmer Springs

Fairlie

Greenacres Motel

0800 822 262

Jack in the Green

03 315 5111

Fairlie Top 10 Holiday Park

0800 324 754

YHA Kakapo Lodge

03 315 7472

Eat Deli & Bar

03 685 6275

0800 368 7386

Sheffield Sheffield Bakery

Lonestar Cafe and Bar

0800 161 223

Adelphi Bar & Restaurant

Hanmer Adventure Centre

Wanaka & Queenstown Base Backpackers

Brinkley Resort

03 319 3333

Mt Lyford Lodge

03 318 8196

Big Tree Lodge

Whaler Kaikoura

Kaikoura i-Site

Castle Hill Basin Flock Hill Lodge

03 318 3876

Springfield

Tekapo Discover Tekapo

NZ 4WD Hire

0800 929 333

Pegasus Rental Cars

0800 354 504

Rent a Dent

09 275 8620

Smylies Mountain Transport

03 318 4740

Touch Down Car Rental

0800 736 849

Other Numbers 03 680 6942

Lake Tekapo Scenic Resort

0800 118 666

Tailor-Made-Tekapo Backpackers

03 680 6700 0800 680 570

Smylies Accommodation

03 318 4740

Springfield Motel & Lodge

Peppers Bluewater Resort

03 318 4018

Springfield Service Centre

Tekapo Holiday Homes

03 680 6607

03 318 4845

Station 73 Cafe

03 318 4000

Earth & Sky Observatory

03 680 6960

Omarama Top 10 Holiday Park

027 629 8083 021 0293 5114

0800 662 726

NZ Mountain Safety Council Canterbury Wanaka

03 313 0507 03 409 2025

Smaller Earth

09 889 4101

Tai Poutini Polytechnic Ski Patrol Programme

0800 800 411

Note: 0800 or 0508 numbers

are free to call in NZ. International callers, drop the 0 and add +64 before the number.

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114.

Contacts - Snow Sports Christchurch

CHILL HQ

Sales & Hire: CHILL Pass, backcountry equipment and nutcracker/harnesses. +64 3 365 6530 hq@chillout.co.nz www.chillout.co.nz

Snow Shops & Retailers Kaikoura R&R Sport

03 319 5028

Hanmer Springs Hanmer Adventure Centre

03 315 7233

CHILL online

Full contacts CHILL passes Events & courses Backcountry gear Weather links Winter news

www.chillout.co.nz

Backcountry Heli & Cat Access

Bivouac Outdoors

03 341 8062

Methven Heliski

Cheapskates

03 377 2942

Gnomes Alpine Sports

Queenstown Snowcats

027 747 3838

03 342 5757

High Country

03 366 4166

Tekapo Helicopters

0800 359 835

Macpac Riccarton Mall Outlet Store

03 348 1203 03 371 9342

R&R Sport

03 348 7980

Ski & Snowboard Surgery

022 126 9161

Snow & Surf

03 366 7351

Southern Alps Guiding

03 302 8108

03 435 1890

Mountain Contacts Awakino

021 0243 9273

Broken River

03 318 8713

Craigieburn Valley

03 318 8711

Snowride Sports 0800 7669 7433

Fox Peak

03 685 8539

Victoria Ski Sport

Hanmer Springs

03 975 1556

03 366 2018

Darfield Gnomes Alpine Sports

03 318 8433

Methven Alpine Sports

03 302 8084

Big Als Snowsports

03 302 8003

Jace’s Ski Hutt

03 302 9553

Fairlie Ski Shack

03 685 8088

Wanaka Cheapskates

03 443 5548

Queenstown R&R Sport

03 409 0409

Mt Cheeseman Office Snowline Lodge

03 344 3247 03 318 8794

Mt Dobson

03 685 8039

Mt Lyford

03 315 6178

Mt Olympus

03 318 5840

Porters

03 318 4002

Rainbow

03 521 1861

Roundhill

03 680 6977

Temple Basin

03 377 7788

Treble Cone

03 443 7443

Note: 0800 or 0508 numbers

are free to call in NZ. International callers, drop the 0 and add +64 before the number.

www.licencetoride.co.nz | your local mountain biking guide

GRANT GUNDERSON

Johnny Collinson, Tanigawadake, Japan.

SECRET STASHES BlackDiamondEquipment.com Factor 130 Boots For more information go to: www.southernapproach.co.nz or call 0800 335 000