Licence to chill 2014 web

Manual #9

SNOW:2014 Snow Travel Ski Areas Galore

CHILL Passes T

E IDNTER GUIS WI EET TH FRG OU URILLIN YOO CH

Full Range

Backcountry Fresh Tracks

fischerski.co.nz

4.

Cover Photo: Nick Clark. Snowboarder Shane Orchard. Arthur's Pass Backcountry

Haere Mai! Welcome!

Welcome to the Licence to Chill Manual - Winter 2014.

This manual is free for your enjoyment and inspiration to explore the Southern Alps. Thanks to the support of all the advertisers we are able to distribute to snow sports shops in New Zealand and Australia. You’ll also find copies at great cafes in close proximity to the ski areas.

Inside we profile 14 ski areas in the South Island, inclusive of their key statistics, facilities and in-depth profiles with a spotlight on selected 2014 events and programmes.

The ‘CHILL Pass’ is your ticket to access the ski areas, ranging from a premium Season Pass (accessing 13 ski areas) to shorter Anytime Passes, providing 5,7 and 10 days. The flexibility of the CHILL Pass means there is a pass for everyone.

Use the manual as a holiday planner with transport and travel services, plus accommodation and key service providers located around the ski areas.

Inside, we seek out fresh tracks and drop in with Cam Lill mountain manager at Mt Cheeseman, Tom Dunbar mountain guide for Neon PomPom, James Flockton adventurer of the Southern Alps and Neil Williman competing on the Freeride World Tour.

Editor: Stu Waddel Associate Editor: Martina Flueckiger Editorial Assistants: Amanda Power & Tory Crowder Advertising Sales: create@chillstudio.co.nz Art Direction & Design: Michael Michaels & Victoria Haggland Concept Design: www.chillstudio.co.nz Contributors: Sam Masters, Joe Harrison, Shane Orchard, Ross MacKay, Geoff Browne, Miek Deuninck, Alex Brook, Mark Bridgwater, Margot Bohanon, Sam Worsp, Alain Bassin, Paul Bush, June Cloudesley, Cam Lill, Tom Dunbar, James Flockton, Neil Williman, Tess Carney, Andrew Hobman, Anna Keeling, Riccarton Clinic, and active club members.

16 Bealey Ave, Christchurch P. 03 365 6530

You’ll also find tips for making the most of the CHILL ski areas, the life of a seasonaire, getting your kids into skiing, and injury prevention. There is a comprehensive back country section with snow safety courses, making a field observation, slack country trips and touring the Tasman Glacier. We also catch up with the good old days from Alain Bassin, Paul Bush and June Cloudesley.

Get in touch, send us your doodles, images, a letter to the editor, CHILL Lib, and enter a number of worthy competitions. Up for grabs: Return Interislander Ferry journey, Mighty Camper holiday and CHILL Passes see pg 99 – 105. Email hq@chillout.co.nz For more on the CHILL Pass and all things snow during the season check out www.chillout.co.nz and subscribe to our e.newsletter.

Travel safe in the mountains, leave only foot prints and share your stories.

CHILL Manuals 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 resources. 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.

With POWERTRACK series, Dynastar introduces a new era of performance skis for off-trail.

Mixing power and versatility, Powertrack range combines the best elements of piste and freeride to make it THE ski to do anything. www.bobo.co.nz

6.

Contents CHILL

CHILL Welcome The CHILL Pass Range 2014 Map and Travel Times Snow Travel, Itineraries & Tours Nutcracker & Rope Tow

Ski Areas - Guide & Facilities

10 - 14

Rainbow

32 - 33

15

Mt Lyford

34 - 35

Hanmer Springs

36 - 37

Temple Basin

44 - 45

Craigieburn Valley

46 - 47

Broken River

48 - 49

Mt Cheeseman Mountain Manager - Cam Lil Porters

50 - 53 50 - 51 54 - 55

16 - 22 110

Events

108 - 109

Contacts

112 - 114

Regions

Rainbow - Nelson Lakes

32 - 33

Lyford - Kaikoura

34 - 35

Hanmer Springs

36 - 37

Christchurch

40 - 41

Selwyn

43 - 56

Methven

57 - 61

Ashburton

62 - 63

Mackenzie

66 - 72

Treble Cone - Southern Lakes

74 - 75

Articles

The CHILL Guide to Mountain Domination Seasonaires Life in the Bubble

24 - 25

Kick Starting Your Kids

30 - 31

Local Yocal - Tom Dunbar

60 - 61

Winter Injuries and Injury Prevention On the World Tour - Neil Williman Good Old Days

88 - 89

Toby and Ania from McEwings @ Mt Dobson

Mountains

8-9

4

26 - 28

92 - 93 94 - 96

Mt Olympus

56

Mt Dobson

68 - 69

Roundhill

70 - 71

Fox Peak

72

Awakino Treble Cone Backcountry

Backcountry Snow Safety Courses Make an Observation - We Need Your Help Fresh Snow too Good to be True James Flockton Fresh Tracks Ski Touring the Upper Tasman Glacier Doodle Pages 2013 Winners

Season Collection CHILL Lib 2014 Rulers of the Snow

73 74 - 75 78 - 79 80 82 - 83 84 - 85 86 - 87

98 - 101 102 103 104 - 105

8.

The CHILL Pass Range 2014 The Licence to CHILL or “CHILL Pass” is the ultimate ski pass and your gateway for 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.

The choice of ski areas and available 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 back-

country terrain, you can challenge yourself as much, or as little as you like.

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 what to ski or ride as much as possible.

All passes are available at special rates for families.

Additional pass information, family rates are available online at 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

$740

$1145

Student/Senior

$865

$1100

$695

$935

Youth

$640

$865

$420

$670

Child

$510

$705

$345

$540

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

Family Pass

‘Preseason’ rates displayed first and valid till 31 May. ‘In Season’ rates displayed in brackets and valid from 1 June. Passes with only one rate listed are valid all season.

Loyalty rates are offered to 2013 pass holders.

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.

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

TC Days are inclusive in the 5, 7 and 10 days purchased, not additional.

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

9.

CHILL 6 : Season Pass

Full Season Pass

Midweek Season Pass

Pre-Season

In-Season

Pre-Season

In-Season

$1060*

$1310

$700

$1150

Student/Senior

$810

$980

$630

$835

Youth

$600

$765

$395

$595

Child

$475

$620

$325

$485

Adult

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 : 5,7 & 10 Day Anytime Pass

10 Day

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

(includes 2 'buddy' days)

(includes 1 'buddy' day)

7 Day

5 Day

Adult

$645

$480

$375

Student/Senior

$480

$365

$300

Youth

$370

$275

$250

Child

$295

$235

$200

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

10.

Ski Areas Key

Awakino

Beginner

10%

Intermediate

On Mountain Food Accommodation Accommodation Rates Phone Ski Hire

Access Day Pass Rates

Location

Canteen, Licenced

Mtn Ph : +64 21 890 584 (John Hamilton)

4WD (2WD to bottom

www.skiawakino.com To find out more on

Waitaki Ski Club Member

ship go to www.skiawakino.com Kurow – 14km

Stay in the lodge and ride all weekend.

Catered: A $75, S $60, Y/C $60. Self catered: All categories $40

Accom & Mtn +64 3 318 8713

Conditions Permitting 2WD with chains when required

A $75 S $50 U18 $35 (U11 & 70+ FREE!)

www.brokenriver.co.nz

To find out more on

Waitaki Ski Club Member

ship go to www.brokenriver.co.nz SH73, Castle Hill

Draw Card

Slow down on wet and icy roads

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

Yes

car park)

A $50 S $40 C $25

Website

Membership

1425m

Showers & Toilets

Accom +64 21 0243 9273 (David Campbell)

2x Rope Tows

1820m

30 Bed Lodge, Kitchen,

Occasionally by arrangement

Lessons Night Skiing

A $30, S $30, C $20

Bottom Elevation

50%

3x Rope Tows

1450m

Learner Lifts

45%

Beginners Area Groomed

1880m

Main Lifts

Terrain Park

5%

60%

1x Rope Tow

Pistes

Top Elevation

30%

2x Rope Tows

Advanced

Broken River

Holds plenty of snow with two main basins to ski.

Craigieburn 55%

45%

3x Rope Tows 1811m 1310m

Fox Peak 10%

60%

30%

Beginner & Intermediate Groomed (Plus some higher trails) 3x Rope Tows

11.

Hanmer Springs 10%

60%

30%

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

1x Platter, 1x Beginners’

Tow

1x Fixed Grip Rope Tow

Cafe, Licenced

1990m

1769m

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

1410m

1460m Build your own jumps!

A $95, S $80, U18 $50.

Rates include dinner, bed & breakfast.

Snacks (Choc bars, drinks etc)

Accom & Mtn +64 3 318 8711 in season Yes

Conditions Permitting (BYO headlamp & skins)

2WD with chains when required

A $72 S $50 Y $35 (U13 & 70+ FREE!)

www.craigieburn.co.nz

Cheaper Accommodation

and Day Pass Rates for

Members. Join at www.craigieburn.co.nz

40 Bed Lodge, Kitchen, Showers $25 pp per night

Accom +64 3 684 7358 Snow +64 3 688 0044 Mtn +64 3 685 8539 in season

Can be arranged with a local

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

2WD with chains when required

SH73, Castle Hill

Steep and challenging terrain accessible straight from the lift.

A$60 S $35 Y $10 (U10 FREE!)

www.foxpeak.co.nz

Go to www.foxpeak.co. nz to join the Club.

Fairlie, Sth Canterbury

Great access to slack country, rarely tracked.

Canteen 50 Bed Lodge, Kitchen, Showers $30pp or $70 family –

note our Chill pass stay

for free offer

Accom & Mtn +64 27 434 1806 in season Yes Yes

2WD with chains when required

A $60 S $50 Y $30 $30 beginners www.skihanmer.co.nz

Go to www.skihanmer. co.nz for membership rates and many great benefits.

Jack’s Pass, Hanmer Springs

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

12.

Ski Areas

Mt Cheeseman 15%

50%

35%

Mt Dobson

Main Runs Groomed

25%

2x T-bars

1x Chairlift, 1x T-bar

1540m

www.mtdobson.co.nz SH8, Fairlie

2WD with chains when required

www.mtcheeseman.co.nz

To become a member go

to www.mtcheeseman. co.nz SH73, Castle Hill

Family friendly, excellent terrain for learning, uncrowded open slopes.

1420m Cafe

Mtn +64 3 685 8039

Terrain for all abilities & the only chair lift on the CHILL Pass.

Base of mountain – Log Chalet Village Yes

2WD with chains when required A $75 65+ $37.5 S $57 Y $44 C $28 (U5 FREE!)

1x Fixed Grip

1750m

Yes Yes

30%

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

Cafe

Yes

1695m

Yes

A $79 65+ $39 S $59 Y $39 (U10 & 75+ FREE!)

1x Platter, 1x Rope Tow

40%

Main Runs Groomed

2110m

Cockayne Cafe, Licenced 68 Bed Catered Lodge, 38 Bed Self-Catered Lodge, Kitchens, Showers Snowline Lodge – A $99, S $79, Y $69, C $59 (including DBB + L).

Forest Lodge – A $30, S $24, Y $18, C $15 Accom & Mtn +64 3 318 8794

30%

25%

Main Runs Groomed

1x Rope Tow

1860m

50%

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 Mtn +64 3 315 6178

Sunny slopes and often the first mountain to

open.

13.

Mt Olympus 15%

50%

Porters

35%

30%

3x Rope Tows

3x T-bars

1875m

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

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

A $110 S $90 Y $80 U10 $60

bookings@mtolympus. co.nz

1540m

Cafe, Licenced

Yes

Mtn +64 3 318 5840 Espresso coffee with ski

in - ski out mtn lodge accommodation.

Cafe Yes Yes 2WD with chains when required

Yes

1x Fixed Grip Rope Tow

Yes

2WD with chains when required A $85 65+ $45 S $60 Y$45 (U7 & 75+ FREE!) www.skiporters.co.nz

SH73, Castle Hill

MTN +64 3 318 4002, Snow-Phone Audio Report +64 3 379 9931

Extensive snowmaking and grooming , family friendly and fantastic cafe with free wi-fi.

20%

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

1758m

42 Bed Catered Lodge, Showers see www. portersalpinelodge.co.nz

Join the Club at www. mtolympus.co.nz Harper Road, Lake Coleridge

1302m

Yes

55%

Main Runs Groomed

Conditions permitting (Booking essential)

A $70 S $45 Y $35 (U10 FREE!)

25%

1980m

Accom +64 3 318 4011

www.mtolympus.co.nz

1x Platter, 1x Magic Carpet

Yes

4WD with chains when required

40%

Main Runs Groomed

1x Rope Tows

1425m

30%

Rainbow

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

Find out more about the

Rainbow Sports Club

Inc. on www.skirainbow. co.nz SH63, Nelson Lakes Mtn +64 3 521 1861

Sunny faces, spectacular views and un-crowded slopes.

14.

Ski Areas

Treble Cone

Temple Basin Round Hill 20%

45%

25%

1923m

Main Runs Groomed

2x Rope Tows

2133m 1350m

Beginner to Intermediate

Two-Thumb Cafe, Licenced Yes

1493m

Mtn +64 21 680 694

Conditions Permitting

A $78 65+ $39 S $57 Y $46 C $36 (U6 FREE!)

Lilybank Road, Lake Tekapo Snow +64 3 680 6977 Largest vertical drop on the CHILL Pass & skiing for the whole family.

120 Beds, Catered & Self-Catered Lodge, Kitchen, Showers A $95 S $85 Y $80 C $70 Dinner, Bed, 2*Lunch & Breakfast. $43 bed only.

Mtn & Accom +64 3 377 7788

Yes

2WD with chains when required

www.roundhill.co.nz

Canteen, plus hot lunches on order for day trippers.

Yes

Yes

10%

25%

40-60 minute hike

1x 6 Seater Chair 1x 4 Seater Chair

1x Platter, 1x Magic Carpet

1260m Yes Cafe, Licenced Yes Yes 2WD with chains when required

Remote alpine setting with great riding.

A $105 ($90 when purchasing a 5 Day ‘Flexi’ Pass ) 65+ $56 S $77 C $51 ($48 online) (U5 & 70+ FREE!) www.treblecone.com

ww.templebasin.co.nz

SH73, Arthurs Pass

45%

1960m

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

For big discounts and

great weekends plus

events join the club

at www.templebasin. co.nz

45%

Main Runs Groomed

3x Rope Tows

35%

2x T-bars, 1x Rope Tow

50%

Snow +64 3 443 7443

Wanaka

Heaps of terrain and the longest vertical in the Southern Lakes.

15.

60

Map & Travel Times

6

1

Nelson

Pg 32

Rainbow

63 6

Reefton 6

Greymouth Pg 46

Craigieburn

Castle Hill

Pg 70

Springfield Sheffield 77 Darfield Methven

Mt Hutt

Mt Cook Village

Mt Somers

80

Haast

8

6

Lake Ohau 8

8

1

Akaroa Methven Heliskiing Pg 59 Helipark Pg 72

Fox Peak Dobson

83

Wanaka

Pg 54

75

Geraldine Timaru

Omarama

Pg 52

Cheeseman

Ashburton

1

79

Tekapo Twizel

Hanmer Pg 36 Springs Temple Basin Pg 44

Christchurch

77

Fairlie

Pg 34

Lyford

Porters

1

Arrowsmiths

Cheviot

1

73

6

Ohau

7

Arthur’s Pass

Pg 56

Olympus Roundhill

70

Hokitika

Pg 48

Broken River

Kaikoura

Hanmer Springs

7

Pg 68

Aoraki Mt Cook Heli Pg 66

82

Cromwell Queenstown

Oamaru Alexandra 1

6

Awakino

1

Treble Cone

Pg 73 Pg 74

Queenstown Snowcats Pg 74 94

Gore

1

Balclutha

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

16.

SMYLIES

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 from one ski area to another. Large campervans are not suitable for the majority of the small club field access roads. Check access suitability before you leave.

Snow chains must be carried at all times, including 4WD vehicles. Chains can be hired from Gnomes Alpine Sports in Darfield, McEwings in Christchurch, Alpine Sports in Methven and The Ski Shack in Fairlie.

Chain Supplies The Chain Man

Specialist suppliers of snow and traction chains to suit all vehicles. Comprehensive range, comprehensive 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 Nationwide Snow Sports R&R Sport With all the ski and snowboard hardware and clothing you’ll need and 9 stores nationwide they’ll sort your snow adventures.

Queenstown, Christchurch, Dunedin, Wanaka, Hamilton, Auckland, Albany, Kaikoura and Nelson and a dedicated snow loving web team www.rrsport.co.nz

Car Rentals

Touch Down 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

MOUNTAIN

TRANSPORT Porters Broken River Mt Cheeseman Craigieburn

1 to 100 passengers

Wearing out tyres for 20 years!

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.newzealand4wdhire.co.nz

Bus services ex Chch

Pegasus Rental Cars

Intercity

+64 3 365 1113

Naked Bus

0900 62 533

Going to the snow, let us help you with car hire requirements. Easy driving to all Canterbury club fields.

FREE racks and chains with all 4WD. NZ Free Ph: 0800 354 504 E: christchurchairport@rentalcars.co.nz www.rentalcars.co.nz Camper Rentals

Mighty Campers Campervans are super affordable and make freedom travel easy. Combine a CHILL Pass with a Mighty Camper - choose from a 5, 7 or 10 Day Anytime Pass, or a long term hire and 30 Day Consecutive Pass.

For more info check out the travel page at www.chillout.co.nz or www. mightycampers.co.nz

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

Hanmer Connection

0800 242 663

West Coast Shuttles

+64 3 768 0028

CHC – Wanaka

Train Transpacific (Picton – CHCH)

0800 872 467

Township to Local Mtns Mt Lyford Express

+64 27 6298 083

Hanmer Adventure

0800 368 7386

Smylies Transport

+64 3 318 4740

Black Diamond Safaris - Methven

+64 27 450 8283

Wanaka to Treble Cone Alpine Shuttles

+64 3 443 9120

Flying Bus

0800 359 754

New Zealands most remembered journey’s Since 1962

interislander.co.nz

the human foot has:

26 bones 33 joints 109 ligaments 19 muscles

Ski boot fitting through our eyes Custom ski boot fitting is complex and requires an in-depth knowledge of the foot, lower leg and biomechanics Book an appointment now to see the best in the game!

Gnomes, Darfield, Canterbury 03 318 8433 www.gnomes.co.nz

18.

Itineraries & Tours

Mountain Transport and Tours Winter Itineraries

We have put together some itineraries for the keen skier and snowboarder. There are a lot of options and a life of winter exploring to do, all at our back door.

The Long Island Iced Weekend

The Neon PomPom is all about bringing the back country closer to those who just don’t have the time to arrange a trip off the beaten track themselves - and doing it in style.

The Long Island Iced Weekend

package is designed for those who are looking to get a few days on some real terrain with a minimum of fuss. The experience takes place over four nights, includes three days skiing and covers everything, airport transfers, hire gear, ski passes, food, private chalet accommodation, drinks, mountain transport, guiding and non-skiing activities. You can add extra days, heli days, and include non-skiing activities. The cost is from NZD$2095pp.

E: info@neonpompom.co.nz www.neonpompom.co.nz 5 Day CHILL Pass - Selwyn

Your Own Chalet.

Private Ski Guides.

Club Fields & Heliskiing.

All-inclusive Packages.

The smart way to ski the

!

real New Zealand is here.

neonpompom.co.nz

Day 1 – From Christchurch drive 1 hour to Porters to ski. After closing head to Craigieburn Mountain Lodge DBB (dinner, bed & breakfast). Be aware of the downhill traffic when driving up any ski area access road.

Day 2 – Ski all day at Craigieburn and see how many laps of Middle Basin you can handle. Then hike up to Hamilton Peak and ski down to Broken River’s Hanomag car park via Double Bowl and Allan’s Basin. (If in a group, draw straws and get someone to shuttle a car around to Broken River.) Grab the Tyndall Tramway back to the lodges and settle in for another mountain lodge DBB. Day 3 – Ski at Broken River for the day, then ski out Allan’s Basin to Hanomag and drive Mt Cheeseman for night at Snowline Lodge.

Day 4 – Spend the day at Mt Cheeseman. If you have backcountry and gear knowledge you could sneak a few runs in Tarn Basin. In good time drive to Mt Olympus, approx 2hrs. Stay in either Bottom Hut (self cater) or Top Hut (DDBL).

Day 5 – After breaky, grab your lift pass and book yourself in for lunch.

By the end of the day you’ll no doubt be shattered from 5 days riding and you may want to stay another night.

Interislander

Connecting us kiwis and visitors alike between NZ’s islands since 1962, 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

Hanmer Adventure Centre Mountain Transport This is your one stop adventure shop. Ski hire available, with daily departures to Hanmer Springs Ski Area from 8.30am. Booking recommended.

20 Conical Hill Rd NZ Free Ph: 0800 368 7386 A.H. +64 21 225 2292

Alpine Expeditions - CHCH

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

NZ Free Ph: 0800 75 44 88 E: alpine4x4@mcewings.com www.alpineexpeditions.co.nz

Aspiring Guides - Wanaka

Experience true NZ Backcountry. Day & Multi day Ski/Snowboard Backcountry Tours, Avalanche Awareness & Winter Skills Courses, Glacier Ski Touring on NZ’s highest glaciers, and Private Huts.

NZMGA certified guides.

Level 1, 99 Ardmore St P: +64 3 443 9422 www.aspiringguides.com

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

20.

Itineraries & Tours

North Canterbury Long Weekend

Three day trip to the North Canterbury ski areas.

Friday – From Christchurch drive 1 ½ hours to Hanmer Springs, with plenty of places to stay and dine.

Saturday – Drive 17kms up to Hanmer Springs Ski Area and enjoy skiing the uncrowded, sunny groomed slopes. Alternatively take the shuttle from Hanmer Adventure Centre. There are rental facilities on the mountain. You can stay overnight (self cater) or head back down to the Village and hit the thermal pools.

Sunday – Drive an hour to Mt Lyford Village and onto the ski area. A shuttle that leaves Mt Lyford Village at 9.30am. Mt Lyford has a day lodge and rental

your

SAFETY FIRST

facilities at its base. After a day skiing, stay at Mt Lyford Lodge with restaurant, outdoor spa pools, and a large open fire.

Monday – Call work and tell them you are stuck in snow.

Mt Cheeseman

10 Day Deep South Roadie If you’re flying into Christchurch to do a roadie of the South Island ski areas on a CHILL 7-day Anytime Pass, this itinerary is ideal for you.

Day 1 – Pick up a campervan from Mighty Campers at Christchurch Airport and your 7-day Anytime Pass from CHILL HQ. Stock up on supplies then head south along State Highway 1, then inland to Mackenzie Basin. Stay at Fairlie Top10 Holiday Park, or the picturesque Lake Tekapo.

Day 2 – Drive up to Mt Dobson for a warm-up ski day. Ease yourself into your ski trip with the relaxing chairlift access and groomed slopes.

Head through to Lake Tekapo for an evening or back to Fairlie.

GET IN & GET OUT All Wheel Drive (AWD) or a 4WD with Hi/Low

ratio transmission

Auckland Airport (09) 275 3100 Christchurch (03) 365 6535 Queenstown (03) 441 4157

BOOK ONLINE NOW! www.newzealand4wdhire.co.nz

Day 3 – Spend the day skiing at Roundhill. Have a few warm up runs on the T-Bars before familiarising yourself with the rope tow and nutcracker system. After the day skiing, drive through to Wanaka, stopping off at Omarama Top10 Holiday Park or Wanaka Lakeview Holiday Park.

Day 4 & 5 – Make use of 2 days at Treble Cone on the 7-Day Anytime Pass, with plenty of terrain to explore.

Day 6 – Spend a day travelling up through Haast and north along the West Coast. Check out The Fox and Franz Joseph glaciers on the way. Refuel your supplies in Hokitika before heading P: Ross Mackay. Temple Basin inland to Arthur’s Pass and stay at Avalanche Peak Camp, a non-powered DOC site.

Day 7 – Enjoy a day skiing at Temple Basin. There is a 1 hour walk up to Temple, but it is well worth a visit. Stay overnight or camp in Arthur’ss Pass .

Day 8 & 9 – Depending on how much energy you have left there are a few options. If you are keen on continuing the ‘big mountain’ theme, then ski at Craigieburn Valley or Broken River (rope-tow access only). If you are feeling like more laid-back day, try Mt Cheeseman or Porters which both have easy access and groomed runs. It would be worth while staying on the mountain for a great meal and hot shower.

Day 10 – Reluctantly return to Christchurch. If there’s time, hire a bike from Vintage Peddler at CHILL HQ, pedal through the city’s rebuild.

22.

Itineraries + Tours

Temple Basin Ski Week

One day is not enough to fully appreciate what Temple Basin has to offer. You really need a few days to get familiar with the terrain, and a ski week is a great opportunity. Ski weeks run from Sunday to Saturday, and includes all meals, lift passes, 6 nights accommodation and a daily lesson. All you need is your sleeping bag.

Catch the Atomic Shuttle from Christchurch, departing at 7.30am.

The shuttle will drop you at the goods lift just after 10am. From the goods lift hike back along the road to the walking track and then up to the lodges (approx 60-70mins). Tramping boots recommended.

Let your alpine adventures begin.

The club offers a variety of ski weeks to suit everyone such as supervised kids ski weeks and family weeks during the school holidays, and a tertiary week for uni students. Standard ski weeks run throughout the season.

Ski Areas

P: Mark Bridgwater. Temple Basin, Ferrier Lodge

A Need to Know Basis

• Obey all ski area signs.

• Leave only footprints and your powder tracks!

• CHILL strongly recommends wearing a helmet.

• 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.

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 110 and talk with the ski area staff, they are happy to assist.

• We strongly recommend you have your own harness and nutcracker if you are a CHILL season pass holder. There is limited supply on the mountains and priority goes to those purchasing day passes. We sell and hire harnesses & nutcrackers at CHILL HQ.

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

• Enrol in a snow safety course if you plan to travel in the backcountry, and always travel with others, a transceiver, shovel and probe (know how to use them) see page 78-79.

Travel

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

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

• Always carry chains in your vehicle and fit them when advised.

CHILL

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

ROPE TOW HARNESS FOR THE ULTIMATE JOY RIDE BUY ONLINE AT WWW.CHILLOUT.CO.NZ TRY ON AT CHILL HQ - 16 BEALEY AVE, CHRISTCHURCH

24.

The Chill Guide to Mountain Domination Sam Masters It takes a few trips to get the hang of your average CHILL Ski Areas. There are a number of traps for young players including “interesting” access roads, overheating on the hike to the lifts or lax nutcracker technique. Experience is always more costly and more useful than advice. Until now. The CHILL team clunked their heads together to come up with these best ever tips...

How to get the best snow

The New Zealand winter – heavily influenced by our maritime climate - is varied, pugnacious, and down-right ugly. Winter storms rarely turn up when expected and shut the country down when they are least wanted. When it comes to powder snow there are no guarantees. Things are so random that Kiwi meteorologists use ‘fickle’ as a verb: “Canterbury skiers will be badly fickled by snow conditions tomorrow.”

For powder snow you need luck or total freedom.

Sadly your regular life will need to take a back seat to score the best snow unless you have inserted a ‘powder clause’ into your employment contract and pre-nuptial agreement. No plan is best. Make it a winter habit to wake up early (6am) when the Ski Areas file their web reports and drop everything when conditions are right.

Outrun any incoming cold front by staying in the onmountain club field accommodation the night before the storm hits. Some club fields will open the tows before they open the road. This is the legendary ‘lock in’ that will see you track out the resort before most people get up to the field around lunch time.

When it comes to finding powder snow extensive research, experience and luck play their part. The foolhardy and unprepared, however, can still have their day. That’s the nature of really deep snow – it

doesn’t always reward the deserving and righteous.

Best ski vehicle

Regular maintenance, winter tyres, chains and a good dose of antifreeze are essential – but only if you are foolish enough to take your own car. The ideal winter vehicle has plenty of clearance, 4WD, an inexpensive paint job, a demister that works, enough power to smash through a snow bank and belongs to someone you don’t particularly like. Oddly enough the more expensive your car the more likely that the keas will eat the rubber bits on it. Hiring a vehicle is a very good option.

Winter driving for legends

Momentum is your friend – at least on the way up.

On the way down it is best to keep things well under control. On bullet-proof ice it doesn’t matter how fancy your ‘Fendalton’ tractor is – above a certain speed threshold you are going over the edge.

The laws of snow chains:

It’s easier to learn how to fit chains in your driveway than in a snow storm at night.

Whenever you need to fit chains the road will be muddy. You will also be wearing brand new threads.

The bigger the rush to get up the hill the more quickly your fingers will freeze (fingerless gloves anyone?).

It is cheaper to buy chains that fit properly than to respray your car after the wheel arches have been flailed by loose chains.

Fitting chains on bald tyres is like saddling a poodle; both weird and ultimately pointless.

Make it a winter habit to wake up early (6am) when the Ski Areas

file their web reports and drop everything when conditions are right.

P: Joe Harrison. Skier Steve Tallott. Fox Peak

Secret CHILL Ski Area tricks and traps: Roundhill:

Try to catch a midweek storm at Roundhill for an uncrowded powder mission on the biggest vertical drop in Australasia.

Fox Peak:

Take your backcountry gear as the real money is the two powder basins either side of the main resort and the endless lines off Fox Peak itself.

Temple Basin

Nor-west storm? It’s probably dumping. Take poles for the walk up.

Broken River

A record-popping snow pocket that gets more of the white stuff than any other resort in Australasia bar Ruapehu. The Tindall Tramway can bottleneck on a powder day. Walk up or get there early.

Craigieburn

Tricky rope tows and total lack of grooming tends to work the unfit and undercooked. Slackcountry options for the more adventurous include the sustained pitch to avalanche corner; one of the best powder runs in New Zealand.

Porters

When Canterbury is frozen solid, Big Mama still ripens up nicely with a bit of sun; time it right for one of the best corn-snow runs on the South Island. Closest ski resort to Christchurch (89km) for those watching the clock.

Mt Olympus:

Day trippers should book lunch by phone before heading up (if you haven’t booked by 11am you miss out).

Mt Cheeseman:

Avoid the powder day frenzy elsewhere in Canterbury with lazy slackcountry laps in Tarn Basin.

Mt Lyford

Mt Lyford gets the best snow from the south east and can be especially good early season – watch for a high pressure system to the south and a low pressure system to the north (High down Low, Low up High).

Amuri (Hanmer Springs):

Flies under the radar with decent slackcountry options for those prepared to have a sniff.

Rainbow:

Great family ski resort - parents can relax outside the cafe and still keep a beady eye on their groms anywhere on the field.

Treble Cone:

Think black diamonds are just for jewellery? For a real challenge huck your carcass from the cliffs in the Motatapu Basin.

25.

26.

Seasonaires – Life in the Bubble Sam Masters What’s it really like working in a ski resort?

The Chill Mag put the life of a seasonaire under the microscope – and we still haven’t recovered from the shock of magnification. Prepare yourself for soap opera with skis on, as we go inside the ski resort bubble...

If you really love skiing or snowboarding then you have probably thought about chucking away your career, love life and sanity for the life of the seasonaire.

Perhaps you've been driven to madness like Richard Dreyfuss in "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and a three-foot-high clay model of Mt Olympus adorns your dining table. Maybe your powder addiction is so chronic that Summer is a four letter word and the first daffodils of Spring send you into a horticultural rage.

It’s time to pack the parka and head to the hills. Just make sure you’re living the dream – not chasing an endless winter nightmare.

The bitter irony of life in the bubble is that you will probably get less time on the snow than the muchmaligned wage slave who punches out a couple of weeks holiday every year. The combination of low income, long hours, expensive transport and hangovers that register on the Richter scale makes the mountains seem a long, long way away. Chose your job carefully – it is the difference between a glorious season and a winter of discontent.

Only enter seasonal employment out of dire necessity.

The one thing worse than being stuck in a bleak city during winter is being stuck in a ski-resort kitchen, scraping congealed lard from the grill while the mountain gets tracked out. If you have to work, get a job with some healthy perks: a season pass, onmountain accommodation, or as much free food as you can wolf down on your shift. Resort pay packets are generally inversely proportional to snow time (the exceptions are those who work evenings).

Your boss will be half insane from relying on stuff

You will develop an embarrassing sense of ownership over your local mountain given it was there for thousands of years before you were born that falls out of the sky for his or her income, and only having four months of the year to turn a profit.

Not all employers in a ski town are underhand, untrustworthy shysters willing to roast their own grandmothers if there was a quick buck to be made in granny kebabs. There are a couple out there, however, so don’t negotiate your employment contract with your eyes wide shut.

So is working in a resort worth it?

Totally. You will have the time of your life (without knowing it) and form life-long friendships that last until at least P: Spinifetexnz.com. Broken River Ski Patrol September. You will develop an embarrassing sense of ownership over your local mountain given it was there for thousands of years before you were born. And you will have an endless supply of off-colour anecdotes with which to bore dinner party companions.

You will also get the best snow. Powder in New Zealand is fickle so you have to be Johnny-on-thespot to get the goods. The best thing about the life of a seasonaire is that, when it comes to powder, you are always Johnny-on-the-spot.

The rest of us know the sinking feeling of arriving at a resort on a big powder day to discover the local workers have already decimated the mountain before slinking back to their pizza-making and toilet

Love Skiing and the Mountains?

MAKE IT YOUR CAREER

CERTIFICATE IN SKI PATROL Wanaka Campus, Starts February 2015

ENROL TODAY

0800 800 411 www.tpp.ac.nz

0800 7669 7433 OR 03 377 3188. SHOP ONLINE. SNOWRIDE.CO.NZ

2 SHOPS 1 LOCATION. 386 LINCOLN ROAD, CHRISTCHURCH.

GETTING RAD FOR OVER 30 YEARS BINDINGS

SKATE SNOWBOARD HIRE

QUALITY SERVICE SINCE 1978 NIKESNOWBOARDING

MIKKEL BANG. PHOTO BY MORAN. 2013 BURTON.

SHOP ONLINE WWW.CHEAPSKATES.CO.NZ

28.

Seasonaires – Life in the Bubble Sam Masters cleaning professions. These committed powder freaks understand that a fulfilling career is only a dishwasher away. The expression, “you should have been here yesterday” was coined by a resort worker and, like most of their humour; is directed at the hapless punters who pay their wages.

Many non-skiers think that instructors have the best job on the hill. Instructing has the glamour, the uniform, the prestige and the best pick up line in the history of promiscuity: “Hi, I’m an instructor!” You’ll get max snow time, travel the world, meet lots of interesting people and correct their body position. It’s not all champagne cocktails and bottomless powder.

Like any profession you will have to do your time before you get the plum private lessons.

Life in the snow resort bubble is delicately balanced, like any ecosystem. The narrow circumference of the bubble adds an edge to any social interaction. Good, bad, sexy or horrendous – you will see that person again and again and again for the next four months: on the bus, in the bars and sometimes on the same chairlift. Unlike real life, when you live in the bubble, there is no escape.

The long-time seasonaire might be cynical, bitter, have a suitcase-sized liver and knee cartilage like frayed dental floss but they will still ride more powder than most of the readers of this magazine – ultimately this is the main attraction.

or responsibility. Plenty of free food and snow time.

Heli ski guide – The dream job for which dreamers need not apply. You will need to be all over avy safety, mountain craft, first aid and customer service.

:Mt Cheeseman, Snowline Lodge

Mountain manager – Long days, short nights where everything - including snow conditions - is your responsibility.

Ski area operations - For the mechanically-minded who like riding skidoos and thrive when it’s minus 15.

Groomer driver – Nocturnal corduroy lovers only.

Plenty of snow time if you don’t need much sleep.

Queenstown Resort College Blending business management and leadership skills with practical work experience and adventure education, the QRC Diploma of Adventure Tourism Management has been developed in consultation with leaders of Queenstown's adventure tourism industry, and is unique in the Southern Hemisphere.

Best Jobs:

NZ Free Ph: 0508 40 5050 E: info@qrc.ac.nz www.queenstownresortcollege.com

Ski/board technician – Generally work in the evening, be careful of rushing binding mounts and try not to breathe too many P-tex fumes.

Tai Poutini Polytechnic Ski Patrol Programme Is skiing your passion? Is Ski patrol your dream job? The Ski Patrol programme provides skills and knowledge required to enter the Ski Patrol industry.

Starts February 2014, Wanaka Campus.

Chef - The ultimate travelling profession, just make sure you work the dinner shift not lunch.

Ski/board instructor – Sounds good when you’re at a party, and this is the one snow-sports job that has cred with non-skiers for some reason.

Ski patrol – Tough gig to crack, long on hours and responsibility. You are saving the world – just one patient at a time though. : Mt Cheeseman Ski School Terrain park guru – You won’t drive the snow cat or shovel snow but just design and hit the features.

Pro skier or snowboarder - The best of all worlds, unfortunately a career change is always just an ACL pop away.

Hydronautical engineer – AKA dishwasher, no respect

NZ Free Ph: 0800 800 411 E: info@tpp.ac.nz www.tpp.ac.nz Winter Sports Company The Winter Sports Company provide professional training for employment in the winter sports industry. Qualify to be a ski or snowboard instructor or certify as a ski patroller and work worldwide.

Canadian courses from 3 to 18 weeks long start in November. Internships also available.

P: ++44 1736 763402 E: info@wintersportscompany.com www.wintersportscompany.com

W W W. DY NA F IT. C OM

Trevor HunT 1 sT descenT February 19 TH 2013 unnamed peak squamisH, briTisH columbia

TLT6 PERFORMANC E CLIMB ANYWHERE. SKI ANY T H I N G.

30.

Kick Starting Your Kids Amanda Power Having kids, makes taking off into the mountains for a powder day without a care, seem like a dream, but it doesn’t mean you have to give up skiing, it just adds a different dimension.

The initial stages of teaching kids to ski can be a testing experience, but as the kids get older and more capable, it becomes an easier and enjoyable exercise. When they finally figure out how much fun it is to go fanging down the mountain at speed, they will not need much more encouragement.

Before you know it skiing becomes a great family activity to do together and can lead to all sorts of adventures in the hills.

Tips for a good day up the mountain with littlies 1. Weather. Choose a nice sunny day or wait until spring when the weather is warmer for your kids first day. Don’t forget sunblock.

2. A good breakfast. A decent bowl of porridge is a good option and smoothies with an extra scoop of complan can help give them that extra energy they’ll need to keep going.

3. Dress in layers. We all hate getting cold, kids in particular. It’s easier getting your kids ready at home than on the mountain, so go straight from PJ’s into thermals, warm socks and ski pants. The other top layers and gloves can easily be put on once you’re up there. A one-piece, or high-back bibs, are a good option to stop snow getting into awkward places.

4. Gear. Whether renting or buying getting the appropriate sized gear can make or break your day. In particular boots need to be comfortable and easy-ish to put on. Make sure the boot fits snuggly into the bindings and the dins are not set too high. Poles aren’t always necessary. Helmets should be a compulsory item.

5. Toilet. A mandatory before hitting the slopes.

Some ski field learner slopes are not an easy stroll away from the toilets. It can become a family rule – ‘everyone goes to the toilet before heading to the tows’.

6. Lollies and treats. Yes Mt Cheeseman. CHILL Gromfest lollies can rot your teeth but if your kid is having a hysterical meltdown half way down a run it’s amazing how a special lolly stashed in your pocket can get you down the rest of the trail. Mini chocolate bars and the like are also the perfect pocket treat.

7. A lesson. Teaching your kid to ski requires patience and is sometimes best left to the professionals.

A school holiday programme can be a worthy investment, and a great way to get your kid meeting new skiing buddies.

8. Breaks. Take plenty of breaks, playing in the snow can be all the fun needed for one day.

9. Food, food, and more food. Kids burn a lot of

PhotoNewZealand_Rob Lile. Porters Ski School.

bivouac outdoor COMMITTED TO ADVENTURE

31.

energy learning how to ski, the constant falling over and getting back up is exhausting. Bring lots of yummy food for lunch. Bacon and egg pie is a good option or frankfurters kept warm in a thermos with buns and sauce is a good trick. Hot chips at the café is always a winner.

11. Quit while you’re ahead. Don’t overdo it.

It’s more important that you have a good day rather than a long day and a bad experience.

12. Kids will be not only be tired by the end of the day but also hungry. Some extra substantial food and a thermos of milo can make your drive home peaceful.

Michael & Monique Weber. Porters

Mackenzie Winter – Family Starter

A great destination and family ski holiday is a trip to the Mackenzie Country. The overall facilities in the area make it an excellent place to get your kids going on skis. At Lake Tekapo there are a variety of accommodation options, from budget friendly family cabins and motels to holiday houses and resort facilities, see page 66 – 67.

From Tekapo you have 2 excellent family friendly ski fields to choose from – Roundhill and Mt Dobson.

Roundhill is approx. 45min drive from Tekapo and has a huge beginners area featuring a platter lift and 2 beginners rope tows. Once your kids get going, Roundhill has masses of gentle intermediate terrain, all serviced by T-Bars. The ski area is basked in sun on a clear day, with magnificent views of Aoraki / Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo. The base facilities are excellent with a café and rental facilities if you haven’t got your own gear.

Mt Dobson is around the same distance from Tekapo

P: Amanda Power. Roundhill. CHILL Gromfest

and like Roundhill has great sunny learner slopes. The learner platter is located above the car park and there are rental facilities also. There are great intermediate runs once your kids get going, accessed by a T-Bar and chairlift. Both ski areas have excellent ski schools and Mt Dobson also has a school holiday programme.

A ski holiday at Tekapo is not just about skiing. A visit to Tekapo Springs should definitely be in the itinerary.

The springs have hot pools, a water slide, tube park and ice skating rink – hours of fun for the kids. Mum can also pop off to the day spa for a little pampering.

Eating out in the evening options are numerous. The Japanese restaurant Kohan is highly recommended.

There is pizza and pasta, Thai or head to the Astro Restaurant which is part of the Mt John Observatory.

It offers some of the most stunning stargazing opportunities in the world.

After your first trip to the Mackenzie Region you will want more. It may well become an annual family holiday. There is so much to do in such a stunning location and the skiing for the whole family is as good as it gets in NZ.

P: Spinifexnz.com. Broken River

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

HI SK RE I

10. Safety 1st, fun 2nd and learning 3rd. As long as your kids are safe and having fun, learning how to ski will just come naturally.

32.

Rainbow

At the top of the South Island, the Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough regions are blessed with the Nelson Lakes National Park and Rainbow Ski Area.

For those from further South or abroad, Rainbow often flies under the radar. It’s a seriously fun and friendly ski area, with facilities to match a mediumsized commercial operation. There’s extensive snowmaking, a terrain park (with its own tow), 5 tows including a T-bar and Platter, with plenty of grooming. The terrain caters for beginners, intermediate and advanced. If rock drops and offpiste are your thing, this expansive field has plenty to keep you challenged.

Check List For everyone: Go there, it’s one of the recent additions to 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.

Key Contacts Website: www.skirainbow.co.nz Mtn Ph: +64 3 521 1861 CHILL Tip Keep an eye on those weather maps, as Rainbow is the most northern ski area on the CHILL Pass and it often catches heavy westerly snow that can miss the mountains further South.

P: Jono Hay

Located in the St Arnaud Range, the ski area is approximately 1 ½ hours drive from Nelson or Blenheim and only 40 minutes from St Arnaud Township, nestled on the edge of the spectacular Lake Rotoiti and the Nelson Lakes National Park.

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 well-groomed pistes ensure there are plenty of trails down and great skiing even when there has been a dry spell. Once you leave the on-piste, the terrain ranges from jibby features to wide open powder bowls. For those that wish to lap the park

P: Jono Hay

there’s a fixed grip access 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 Rainbow café.

The delicious fare on offer is all made in-house with fresh ingredients, plenty of organic goodies and awesome coffee.

Accommodation

St Arnaud is a beautiful spot, and a weekend never seems to be long enough. CHILL’s pick is to choose from the great backpacker, motel and lodge accommodation, or book-a-bach in the local Alpine township.

33.

Nelson Lakes Motels and Sabine Lodge are open for the whole season – well appointed motel units, cabins and backpackers.

Alpine Lodge – for fully serviced, quality accommodation open from mid-July. An architecturally styled lodge in a natural setting, situated at the very edge of Nelson Lakes National Park.

Dining

Cooking yourself or eating out? – St Arnaud has a local store with all of the supplies you need. If you’re wanting to find a log fire and great hearty food the Clinker Café has both restaurant and café food, craft beers and a wide selection of wines from the local region.

Event Profile – Annual Slush Challenge

Rainbow has events nearly every weekend from Family Fun Days to 4 race events including the most popular Masters event in the South Island. In Spring, Rainbow creates an ice-cold lake for the annual Slush Challenge. Participants blast across on an assortment of sliding devices dressed in a diverse range of attire from wetsuits to Hawaiian shirts.

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 what the snow conditions are. Look for the opening of the West Bowl access tow – awesome off-piste skiing, walk to the top of Mount McRae or, on a clear day, head to the ridge for spectacular views of the Nelson Lakes, Kahurangi and Abel Tasman National Parks. After a snow fresh dump head to east face for steep powder action.

2014 News

Programme Profile - Ski School

Rainbow has a great ski school with an international line-up of ski and board instructors providing 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.

Look out also for great off-peak deals, long private lessons at great rates and ‘private group’ lessons with 3 of your mates!

2014 Rainbow celebrates its 10th Anniversary – Look out for big celebrations.

There's heaps of new Snow making capacity for perfect trails early in the season!

The Café is 10 years old. Boris and Lee still make the best food and coffee of ANY ski field.

P: Jono Hay

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

34.

Mt Lyford

Located on State Highway 70, bang smack between Hanmer Springs and Kaikoura, Mt Lyford is a fun and friendly family operated 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 un-crowded mountain and a favourite of locals and Christchurch residents alike. A fleet of groomers keep the piste 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

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.

Key Contacts Website: www.mtlyford.co.nz Mtn Ph: +64 3 315 6178 CHILL Tip Wax your skis and snowboards preseason ready for an early opening.

Be prepared for mountain driving with a quality set of chains. It is worth spending the extra bucks to not having the hassle of chains that fall to bits. 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 Café 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 the low cost shuttles leaving Mt Lyford Lodge and Reserve (by the access gate), booking essential +64 27 6298 083.

35.

Terrain and Weather Tip

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. www.mtlyford.co.nz for accommodation options.

Event Profile Mt Lyford Masters

The one highlight event of the season 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.

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.

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.

News 2014

Mt Lyford has had a busy pre-season working through the annual maintenance schedule.

With plenty of snow fences to repair from the big snow storm in 2013.

The cloudy T-Bar has been re-powered with a 270hp groomer engine to keep customers on the slopes and out of lift queues.

Kaikoura Kaikoura, located on a rocky peninsula, is well known for its seafood and marine wildlife. Mt Lyford is one hour drive on the Scenic Triangle.

Kaikoura Kayaks Paddle with playful Seals, have chance encounters with Dolphins and Penguins on their half day guided tours. Kayak School, Hire, retail/online shop and Kayak fishing available. Like them on facebook!

19 Killarney St NZ Free Ph: 0800 452 456 E: paddle@kaikourakayaks.co.nz www.kaikourakayaks.co.nz Best Coffee - Kaikoura Encounter Kaikoura Where to Eat - Kaikoura The Whaler – West End Mt Lyford Lodge This place has it all! Accommodation options to suit your budget, hot spas, cold beers and great food. Like their facebook page for their latest deals - www.facebook. com/saintsmtlyford.

10 Mt Lyford Forest Drive, Mt Lyford P: 03 315 6446 E: stay@mtlyfordlodge.co.nz www.mtlyfordlodge.co.nz

Henry Wardworth-Watts & Riley Bathurst

Best Coffee & Where to Eat Mt Lyford Lodge

36.

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 accesses wide-open runs, both groomed and ungroomed. The Poma line has undergone extensive earthwork making accent easier in 2014.

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.

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

For rope tow newbies: Make it to the top, Hanmer’s a great place to learn to ride rope tows.

For the weekend: Ski all day then soak in the world famous village Thermal Pools in the evening.

Key Contacts www.skihanmer.co.nz Accom & Mtn Ph: +64 27 434 1806 in season CHILL Tip Take them up on their ‘ski two days on a CHILL Pass stay for free’ offer, it’s awesome.

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.

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!

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

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

Programme Profile – Beginners Package Hanmer’s 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 beginner’s package includes boots, a sliding device, a 45minute group lesson and all day use of the learners area.

37.

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 longer runs either side of the mountain that lead back to the road where you can take a short walk back up or hitch a ride.

2014 News

Snow groomer has been down in Hanmer Springs over summer for a full makeover.

Doubled glazed day lodge.

New bulldozer engine.

Lots of maintenance to access road.

Hanmer Adventures

Hanmer Adventures Mountain Transport .

Hanmer Springs Village Situated in a high country basin, Hanmer Spring is an alpine resort offering outdoor adventures and holiday relaxation. Hanmer Springs Ski Area is 35min and Mt Lyford Ski Area is 1.5 hrs.

Where to Eat Best Coffee Saints CafĂŠ, The Powerhouse Cafe Restaurant & Bar Dont Miss No.31 Restaurant & Bar Thermal hot pools

Ski Area Lodge - Ski two days on your CHILL pass and stay in the Lodge for free.

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

P: Geoff Browne. Mel Parsons. Mt Cheeseman Slackcountry

P: Geoff Browne. Mel Parsons & Amelia Dunbar. Broken River, Palmer Lodge

P: Ross Mackay. Alex Brook. Temple Basin

P: Riley Bathurst. Skier Alex Brook. Mt Cheeseman Slackcountry

40.

Christchurch Christchurch is the South Island’s largest city and the gate way to the Southern Alps. Both domestic and international travellers who visit Christchurch can’t help but become charmed by the resiliance and culture of the city. There are plenty of great snow sports stores, quality accommodation, eatery options and an amazing collection of creative quirks throughout the city.

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

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

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 Cnr Madras and Allen St, City P: +64 3 366 6315 www.winniebagoes.co.nz Other Suggestions CBD, Smash Palace (burgers), King of Snake, Mexicano’s.

Snow Sports CHILL HQ Open 7 days during winter with regular updates from the ski areas. Purchase and pick up your CHILL pass, hire or buy rope tow harnesses, back country transceivers and classic vintage bikes to explore the city.

16 Bealey Ave P: +64 3 365 6530 E: hq@chillout.co.nz www.chillout.co.nz

Best Coffee 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 Suggestions Vic’s Café, Black Betty, C1, Lume, Addington Coffee Co-op.

P: Riley Bathurst

brand . strategy . design web . print

• Hourly • Full Day

• Long Term • Weddings

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

we design you chill

create@chillstudio.co.nz www.chillstudio.co.nz

41.

Bivouac Outdoor 100% New Zealand owned and stock the best specialist outdoor brands from around the world so you can stay dry, warm and safe either in-bounds or backcountry this season.

Unit 3, 81 Clarence Street, Tower Junction P: +64 3 341 8062 E: shop@bivouac.co.nz www.bivouac.co.nz

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

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

Medical 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.

4 Yaldhurst Rd, Church Corner P: +64 3 343 3661 E: info@riccartonclinic.co.nz www.riccartonclinic.co.nz

E: infohigh-country@paradise.net.nz

P: Riley Bathurst

Snowride Sports From Skis to the most important accessory, they offer an unrivaled 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

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 Stoked Surf Snow & Style Stoked has everything you need for the mountains this winter.

Stop by for friendly service, advice and great prices! Stoked offer all CHILL pass holders 10% discount.

9 Wakefield Ave, Sumner P: +64 3 326 7444 E: whiteroomskituning@gmail.com www.stokedsumner.co.nz

P: Riley Bathurst

43.

Selwyn Selwyn stretches from the Pacific Ocean, across the Canterbury plains to the main divide of the Southern Alps. It’s a short drive from Christchurch to the mountains with rural and alpine towns dotted along the way.

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

Snow Sports

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

57 South Terrace P: +64 3 318 8433 E: info@gnomes.co.nz www.gnomes.co.nz

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 homestyled 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

Best Coffee

Express Yourself Café Darfield Bakery (opposite Gnomes)

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.

Where to Stay

Springfield Motel & Lodge Motel units & Lodge perfect for skiers/ groups, all amenities including free wireless, DVD library, drying room & spa bath. 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

Smylies Accommodation – YHA

Looking after snow lovers for 28 years, shared rooms, private super king ensuite. Dinner, bed, breakfast.

Book online.

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

Mt Cheeseman

SPRINGFIELD SERVICE CENTRE Your last convenience stop before the alpine passes

Where to Eat

Station 73 Café & Information

Centre

Best Coffee Yelloo Shack Café Where to Stay Flock Hill Station

Flock Hill Station offers a full range of accommodation options, from spacious Cottages to a fully equipped Back Packer Complex, Restaurant and Bar. Situated within close proximity to all Ski Areas.

SH 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.

SH 73, 12km east of Arthurs Pass P: +64 3 318 9277 E: bealeyhotel@xtra.co.nz www.bealeyhotel.co.nz

WE OFFER • Cabinet food & drinks • Groceries • NZ Postal Agent • Bouldering and climbing gear • Full selection of snow chains • Wi-Fi • Full workshop facilities, servicing, wofs, punctures and general repairs • 24 hr road side accident and breakdown service OPEN 7 days 7.30 am to 7.00 pm Great Alpine Highway Springfield Canterbury ph 03 3184845 // 027 2494817

44.

Temple Basin

Located on the Main Divide of the Southern Alps, Temple Basin is a ski area like no other. Temple Basin perches high up in an alpine environment, providing total detachment from ‘life in the fast lane’ but with all the comforts of home. If you’re thinking of taking a back country or avalanche course there is no better place to immerse yourself in a learning environment. Temple Lodge has a fully equipped lecture theatre where you can access the snow, terrain and weather patterns right from the doorstep.

Temple Basin is a rewarding and exhilarating place to stay, ski and ride. Like any good reward with skiing there is usually a hike involved. A ‘gondola’ (goodslift) can be found at the base, on the main highway, but it only carries your gear. With the weight off your shoulders the walk up to the Lodges should be a breeze. That’s right, there’s no access road so the 4060 minute hike up will get the blood pumping and legs ready for skiing and riding.

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.

Key Contacts www.templebasin.co.nz Accom. & Mtn Ph: +64 3 377 7788

CHILL Tip Walking up on a Friday evening makes the most of the weekends skiing and it’s hard to beat waking up high in the mountains ready to ski after a good dose of fresh coffee.

Don’t leave valuables in your vehicle. traverse from the top of the Temple Tow leads you to Downhill Tow, which is nestled under Mt Temple and accesses a large sunny basin. From Downhill the hiking and touring options are immense. The entire ski area is ungroomed so natural features and impressive rock formations make the skiing both challenging and rewarding. Hike to the summit of Mt Temple, Mt Phipps or B’Limit when conditions permit, and Bill’s Basin is a must.

Three rope tows service the ski area. Cassidy Tow is a great option for beginners and those of intermediate ability. Temple Tow is right in front of the main accommodation lodge and has night skiing. A short

Accommodation

Ferrier Lodge at the start of the Temple Tow provides a social meeting point with a licenced bar; shelter; accommodation with renowned restaurant quality meals. For those on a budget there is also a self-catered option and the combined bed total across two alpine lodges can sleep 120 people, both lodges are equipped with drying rooms and hot showers.

Event Profile –White Dot Enduro Race Saturday 23rd August sees the second running of the Whitedot Enduro Race. Can you go the distance? Complete the most number of circuits in a four hour time period and YOU WIN. There are four competitor categories

Terrain and Weather Tip

45.

Temple Basin can be particularly sunny so pack your sunglasses and sunblock along with your drink bottle and a day pack. Often there are groups leaving from Downhill Tow in the afternoons and if you have your gear with you it means you won’t miss out on some of the best adventures Temple Basin has to offer.

P: Riley Bathurst

– Women, Men, Snowboard and Team. You can be any age, discipline or ability… but you’ll need a mix of speed, strength, planning, timing and strategy.

Programme Profile – Children’s Week

What are your kids doing next school holidays? If they want to have fun skiing or snowboarding send them to a supervised children’s week at Temple Basin.

Accommodation is in warm, comfortable lodges right beside the lifts. All food is prepared by expert chefs and there are lots of fun activities organised each day as well as lessons.

Dates for 2014 are 6-12 July, 13-19 July, 21-27 September, 28-4 October. Families are also welcome.

Our varied terrain and on mountain accommodation makes Temple Basin the ideal place to immerse yourself in the environment whilst enjoying the isolation and spectacular scenery of the Main Divide.

2014 News The onsite rental shop has been updated with new skis and snowboards as well as new equipment available for snow safety courses.

Arthur’s Pass

Arthur’s Pass National Park is one of the most spectacular alpine environments in New Zealand. The park is filled with walks, multi day treks and high mountain adventures. The quaint village holds a store, restaurants, bars and plenty of accommodation.

Best Coffee

The Bealey Hotel Where to Eat

The Bealey Hotel & Bar – great pies.

Arthur’s Pass Store and Café (petrol/ diesel available) The Wobbly Kea Arthurs Chalet - Fully Licenced Restaurant & Bar DOC Information Centre

Open from 8.30am – 4.30pm during winter for weather reports or use the info weather phone +64 3 318 9211.

46.

Craigieburn Valley Check List

Accessed from the Great Alpine Highway 73, Craigieburn Valley Ski Area is a skier and snow boarders paradise. It is comprised of two large basins that encompass a diverse range of intermediate and advanced terrain from wide open powder bowls to steep and technical chutes. The terrain on offer 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 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 take you all the way to the ridgeline. The tows are easy to master but a little rope tow experience is a definite advantage.

While the 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 a storm and on a fine day, a sunny deck where you can enjoy lunch.

Whether you’re looking for a canteen snack or kitchen fare the cafe caters for 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 the Kea Chutes which are often overlooked but 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.

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 down Middle Basin all the way to Big Bend on a powder day.

Key Contacts www.craigieburn.co.nz/accomodation Accom. & Mtn Ph: +64 3 318 8711 in season CHILL Tip Every club has one, but find a clubbie that looks like they are a part of the furniture and ask them where the best run of the day is, or better still, ask them if you can tag along on their next run – they’re a friendly bunch! specific rooms. Koroheke also contains a large dining room and a well-stocked bar upstairs with amazing views of Middle Basin. Relax, eat, drink, enjoy the surroundings!

Event Profile – FREE Mountain Hosts every Sunday!

If it’s your first time at Craigieburn, or you just want to find out where the secret spots that the locals go to, join in on the free guided tours with hosts for different abilities, from experienced shredders to those who just want a fun ski down and to check out what the mountain has to offer. Afterwards kick back at the bar with happy hour specials every Sunday, 11am at the Day Lodge.

Programme Profile - Out of Towners Weekend

P: Ray Singer. Skier Sander Kriek.

Accommodation Koroheke is the main alpine lodge at Craigieburn, nestled amongst the beech forest and only a 3min walk from the access tow. It offers bunkroom accommodation, private twin share rooms and family

Craigieburn’s a great option if you’re looking for a weekend away and wanting to have a great time in the mountains. The weekend will showcase their beautiful mountain and fantastic terrain with ski clinics for guests to help improve technique and dedicated mountain hosting to find the best runs on the Smylies Mountain Transport at Craigieburn Valley.

47.

P: L Blackley. Skier Megan Blackley

mountain to ski. If the snow is right, you could find yourself snaking new lines down the Remarkables or off on a mission to North Peak.

Terrain and Weather Tip Craigieburn is a natural snow trap and holds snow well, even on lean snow years. When snow conditions permit, the ‘Remarkables’ offer some of the most easily accessed gnarly terrain in the world. It’s steep and tight but some routes down are easier routes 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.

CHILL SERIES // CRAIGIEBURN.

Rider: Sebastian Fischer, Craigieburn Valley. Photo: Joe Harrison

21-24 AUG 2014

2014 News This year is the year of 'HOW MANY'. The challenge is on. See who can ski the most laps from North Peak to Big Bend in a single day (lift access - no skinning!) - Prizes for the verified champion. See the ticket office staff for full details.

CV is working hard at finalising the re-alignment of the top tow for the 2015 season.

This is your last chance to ride the famous top tow in all of its original glory. New menus at the day lodge and regular happy hour specials at the bar in the Koroheke lodge will keep everyone P M Bridgewater. CHILL Jr Big Mtn well fed and happy.

Pre-registration essential Enter online at chillout.co.nz

48.

Broken River Check List

BR, as it’s known to the locals, has a friendly atmosphere, social & sunny day lodge and great terrain. Add to that the quirky access via an alpine railway and you’ve got something quite unique.

The day lodge is a great place to relax and watch the action. There is some beginner terrain and plenty of variety for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders.

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

From the main road, the access road takes you up through picturesque Beech Forest to the main Hanomag car park. There 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 cross to the Torlesse Range.

For the stressed: Grab a BR Lager and baskin the sun on Palmer Lodge deck.

For the romantic: Take your lunch to the main ridge and soak in the views of endless mountain ranges to the west.

Key Contacts www.brokenriver.co.nz Accom & Mtn Ph: +64 3 318 7270 in season.

CHILL Tip The ultimate finish to your day – if you’re safety equipped, follow Allan’s Basin below the ski area boundary to the summer road and after a good snowfall ride all the way down to your car.

You will need to bring your own ski or snowboard gear but you can rent a tow belt or ski harness at the Ticket Office. From there you’ve got 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.

The main field is a feature-filled basin with plenty of great intermediate and advanced terrain. There are also two learners tows near the day lodge. The

P: Spinifexnz.com

6

5 2

3 4

1

49.

Access/Rugby Tow can be floodlit for night skiing.

Strong skiers and 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’s 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.

Even if you don’t have the gourmet burger, wild venison or some other mouth-watering morsel for the hot plate you can at least purchase BR’s own boutique lager to make your lunch feel gourmet.

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.

Accommodation

BR offers two styles of accommodation in three lodges. The self-catered option is great for those on a budget, whereas 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!

Event Profile – MSC Backcountry Avalanche Training

BR offers a wide range of events, from the CHILL Junior Big Mountain Camp, to Telemark Week events and two Speed Riding camps. If you’re thinking of going backcountry, then give yourself the best preparation by attending the two Mountain Safety Courses that BR is hosting in late July. The one night/ one day Avalanche Awareness course gives you the basics while the 5 day Backcountry Course provides more in depth training on how to ski and travel safely in the backcountry.

Programme Profile– Beginners Speedriding Camp Try something new, take your skiing to the next level and learn to fly at the Beginners Speedriding Camp.

The slopes at BR will enable you to safely progress in this exciting sport under the trained eye of national and international coaches.

P: Spinifexnz.com

2014 News:

This year they have introduced a MidWeek Catered Special package with discount rates on the 3 day/2 night package.

BR has replaced the antique groomer with a much newer model to ensure they have optimum conditions for skiers and boarders. This will mostly be grooming the learner areas, but they will be grooming some runs when off-piste conditions are a bit gnarly.

There will be more room to soak in the sun at Palmer Lodge as they have extended the deck out front.

Smylies Mountain Transport at Broken River.

Cottages & Backpacker Motels, Cottages & Accommodation available Backpackers Accommodation from $31.00 Warm and Welcoming Restaurant and Bar GREAT ALPINE HIGHWAY CRAIGIEBURN VALLEY, CASS PH +64 3 318 8196 MAIL@FLOCKHILL.CO.NZ WWW.FLOCKHILL.CO.NZ

to relax in after a big day on the mountain.

Warm and Welcoming Resturant Within close Porters, and bar to proximity relax in to after a big day Mt the Cheeseman, Craigieburn and Broken on mountain.

River skifields.

Within close proximity to Porters, Thirsty Thursday throughout the winter from 5.30pm with spot prizes and Craigieburn, Mtspecials, Cheeseman and great foodRiver specials.

Broken ski fields.

50.

Mountain Manager Cam Lill Cam Lill is a ‘guy to have on your team’, and Mt Cheeseman continues to prosper as a result.

From President to Mountain Manager for the Ski Club, Cam shares the joys of working on the mountain, as well as what Mt Cheeseman offers a budding ski and snowboard enthusiast.

Name: Cam Lill Age: 39

How long have you been skiing? 15 years.

Position at Mt Cheeseman (MC)?

Currently I am President during the summertime and during the winter months, of the ski season, I take a leave of absence from being the President and take on the Mountain Manager role.

Favourite run at MC?

A Basin in the right conditions is pretty epic!

Current set up- skis/ bindings / boots All Atomic

When did you first come to MC? 2000 Can you remember the day?

Yes I can remember it vividly – Friends took me there. We arrived in the pitch black on a Friday night to Snowline Lodge after leaving Christchurch early evening. They pointed out all the highlights along the access road – I couldn’t see a thing in the dark! We arrived to a reasonably full lodge, pot belly going in the lounge and a hearty meal had just been served. The next morning was a bluebird day with stunning views out over the basin towards the Torlesse Range.

What was special about your first time at MC?

The feeling of club camaraderie and close friendships was certainly visible from an early stage so I was hooked! Meeting a great bunch of new people and the fact that I knew quite a number of members already from other interests, contacts or business dealings certainly helped me to fit in and feel pretty relaxed from the outset. I had skied very briefly some years prior but Cheeseman is really where I got the bug.

Has this memory stayed with you? Does the club still hold true to what you’ve remember from the early days?

Yes the memory remains well engrained. The club camaraderie and friendships remain to this day - In fact many of my now close friendships have been developed from within Cheeseman and common

interests shared with some of these people extend past skiing and the ski industry.

MC like other local ski clubs relies on a large volunteer basis to get things done out of season. What has MC as a club been up to over the summer months?

This summer (like all) has again been extremely busy. We’ve had a couple of big projects on the go with the re-roofing of Snowline Lodge and the replacement of 1.5km of our mains power cable.

Both these projects have been a mixture of club and professional contractor labour. Cheeseman has quite an extensive asset base with a large inventory of plant and buildings – all of which require extensive general maintenance each summer so there’s never any shortage of work for members to tackle on workparties!

What do you like best about your job as Mountain Manager?

Managing and working closely with a diverse bunch of staff (that are of many different nationalities) to all reach the end goal of giving all visitors to Mt Cheeseman the best possible experience they can have. No two days are ever the same - some days there can be a dozen different issues to deal with whilst other days the sun is shining and everything is running smoothly – that’s the time to go and enjoy a few runs!

What jobs or tasks would you rather not think about? No sleep ins?

Sure there are no sleep ins but being up and about early is pretty special up the hill, especially to see some of the stunning sunrises! Completing snow reports at 5:45am in the morning is a task which you are either a natural at or not and putting on a cheery voice for the phone report at that hour of the morning can sometimes be a challenge and one that you’d rather not always think about!

While been at the mercy of mother nature may be a daily challenge when running the ski area, what are some the recent challenges the Club has had to overcome?

Rising costs for insurance, power, fuel, compliance, etc. can be challenging – especially when there’s no guarantee on consistent snow from season to season. Ideally snow making would help mitigate some of the risks but the shear up front cost of installing a full system is prohibitive for the club at present.

Finding labour resource from the membership to

being up and about early is pretty special up the hill, especially to see some of the stunning sunrises. carry out all the work that is needed over the summer period is certainly another challenge we face as a club. Everyone is busy (especially so in the current hive of activity in Christchurch) and any leisure time is valuable to people nowadays, hence we find that we need to engage more outside contractors to undertake some work.

Forest Lodge is well situated for CHILL pass holders who want to base themselves in the Craigieburn Range with a view to skiing at Cheeseman and neighbouring ski areas.

Retaining existing members and drawing in new ones is another current consideration – long gone are the years (70’s and 80’s in particular) of having a membership base of 1000, with a waiting list! Again this comes down to peoples available spare time and ability to make a commitment to the likes of a club – I believe this is across the board and can be related to many other clubs and sporting type groups well beyond the Ski Club scene.

We know the original day lodge was lost to fire in 2003. Aside from the great coffee and cheese toasties, what does the new day lodge offer to the visiting day tripper?

The loss of the Daylodge was a perfect example of how the club can pull together as a big team and make good out of bad. Despite the fact the new Daylodge took a couple of Summers to complete, the end result was something to be proud of and arguably one of the best Daylodge facilities in the Craigieburn Range.

Even 8 years on this is still a great complex which brings together all the important aspects of the operation together in one building for visitors.

It offers day-tripper guests a place to base themselves from for the day, it’s spacious enough to cope with the general demand of most busy operational days and offers a warm and sunny aspect in front of the learners slope.

MC also has two accommodation options. Is it a luxury to be staying at snow line lodge and to be so close to the snow?

I would say for those who are not used to staying at “on-field accommodation” it certainly is pretty special. It’s as simple as wakeup, dress, eat breakfast and once the lifts are open at 9am walk out the lodge door, put on your skis or board and slide down to the Main T Bar – can’t be much easier than that! From a staff perspective it’s great – no driving to work every day!

What type of snow bound traveller would opt to stay at Forest Lodge?

Someone who is looking for a casual, flexible and cost effective accommodation option.

Guests provide their own food and do their own cooking. We have people who stay one night right through to those staying for the season.

What type of skier or snowboarder would thrive at MC?

Cheeseman is a great intermediate field for skiers and snow boarders alike. T Bar lifts certainly make accessing the intermediate terrain easier and plenty of mid-field grooming helps to set us apart from other club operations. We are continuing to improve our tracks down off the mid slopes to the base area and hope to continue some further track improvements from lunch rock to Tower 3 next summer. Even though we don’t have vast acres of terrain I’d like to think we have something to offer everyone.

Best storm for a powder day at MC?

I would say our best powder days are generally from a Southerly, although this isn’t always the case, and with New Zealand’s unique coastal climate and weather systems you never quite know what you’ll get!

Please tell, are there any future plans for the Club and ski area?

Installing a lift and opening Tarn Basin as part of ski area is still one of the biggest future goals for the club. It sounds easy but in reality is a big project which may take a bit longer than perhaps initially envisaged. Tarn is such a great bit of terrain right on our back door step so it seems logical to make this vision a reality.

Short term plans include more track upgrades as previously mentioned and to keep pushing the use of our lodges / facilities over the summer months – something which continues to grow steadily each year.

51.

52.

Mt Cheeseman

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

Located only 90 minutes drive from Christchurch on the Great Alpine Highway just past Castle Hill Village, the access road is suitable for 2WD vehicles with chains. You can drive right to the base of the ski area where you’ll find the day lodge with the licenced Cockayne Café, ticket office, gear hire and plenty of storage for bags etc. The sunny deck out front is perfect to watch the action and with the learners rope tow located immediately in front of the day lodge, it’s also a great spot to watch the kids once they’ve found their feet, while you enjoy a fresh espresso coffee.

The top of the Main T-bar lift has plenty of wide open groomed slopes ideal for practicing your technique.

The Ridge T-bar lift takes you to the top offering challenging off-piste skiing with spectacular views. Those after a powder fix can head to the shaded face below Mt Cockayne or along Ridge Run to Sunny Face. For the adventurous, the Ridge T-Bar lift also offers access to Tarn Basin, a popular touring option outside the ski area boundary for back-country enthusiasts.

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, drive-to access ski-in ski-out accommodation. Enjoy a hot shower before relaxing in the lounge while your meals are cooked

Check List

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

For the hungry: Overnight in Snowline Lodge for a delicious dinner and divine dessert!

For a laugh: Strip down and enter the quirky ThermaTech Undie 500 on September 13 where everyone who enters is guaranteed an awesome prize.

Key Contacts www. mtcheeseman.co.nz Accom. & Mtn Ph: +64 3 318 8794 in season .

CHILL Tip Make a weekend of it and stay overnight at Snowline Lodge, enjoy the slopes while someone else cooks your dinner, breakfast and lunch and the bonus – first tracks in the morning! by the chef, then get first tracks in the morning. For those on a budget there’s Forest Lodge, a selfcatered 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!

53.

Event Profile – Pirate Day 6 September

There’s a range of great events at Mt Cheeseman including a leg of the CHILL Gromfest Series. Every parent knows the key to ski weekend happiness is keeping the entire family amused. Cheeseman have it covered with Pirate Day on Saturday 6 September, a free event for all the family with loads of free fun ‘n games ‘n prizes for Pirates ‘n Wenches of all ages. For those who make a weekend of it, the fun continues into the evening at Snowline Lodge. See ye there—if ye dare...Arrr!

Programme Profile – Ski Weeks and Kea Kids Club Programmes

Mt Cheeseman has a superb ski and snowboard school with the My #1 Ski Weeks and Kea Kids Club programmes proving popular. Your kids receive quality lessons from internationally qualified instructors and while they’re having a blast you’re free to ski wherever you please!

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.

2014 News

The club have invested lots of time and money upgrading the roof at Snowline Lodge making it warm and toasty for guests overnighting on the mountain.

The easiest access ski in ski out in Canterbury.

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 Café. For those that like natural features the mountain is scattered with heaps Smylies Mountain Transport at Mt Cheeseman.

ThermaTech Undie500

54.

Porters Check List

Porters is the largest commercial ski area operation on the CHILL Pass 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 fully licenced café with espresso coffee, full 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.

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.

Event Profile - McNulty’s Supercross

The McNulty’s Supercross will return to Porters’ famous McNulty’s Basin this winter after the inaugural event last season. The sweeping banked corners,

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

For the rusty: Lock in an early/late private 1 on 1 lesson for just $80 For fun: Round up the groms and get up to Porters for the famous CHILL Gromfest, ski and board fun event for all the kids.

Key Contacts www.skiporters.co.nz Mtn Ph: +64 3 318 4002 Snow-Phone Audio Report +64 3 379 9931 Accom. Ph:+64 3 318 4011 www.portersalpinelodge.co.nz CHILL Tip Grab an espresso coffee from Porters Café to kick start your day on the mountain. rollers, natural pipe and kickers are all designed and shaped for fun with your friends and family. Great prizes up for grabs, lots of fun, and bragging rights until next years event! Check out skiporters.com for more info and to register.

Programme Profile - Porters’ Kids Camp

Gather up your young ones and head to Porters to give them the best possible intro to skiing. Running every day in the second week of the July school holidays and every Sunday throughout the season, Kids Camp is designed for 4-6 year olds and offers a fun and progressive platform for kids to learn to ski. Just $50, the programme includes a 2 hour morning lesson, rental ski equipment, and lift access. Leave the kids to learn the right way with our talented instructors while you shred up the rest of the mountain! More info at skiporters.com.

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’re 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 Smylies Mountain Transport at Porters.

55.

MT ENYS Elevation 2,194m

LAKE COLERIDGE

ALLISON PEAK Elevation 1,997m

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

Expert Only

Sundance Bowl

Solitude

T3

Leaper Cat-Track

Expert Only

T2

Bluff Face

Julian’s Bowl

T1

Dome Face

BASE AREA Community Park Terrain Park

Elevation 1,302m

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.

News 2014

Porters have installed an all new completely automated SMI snowmaking system this summer. This new system is faster and more efficient than the old one, giving greater coverage on the lower mountain. Alongside the system installation, the associated snowmaking pump has also been upgraded to provide increased flow capacity. Getting plenty of snow on the ground early is crucial, and Porters customers can expect an even better snow product for winter 2014.

Another new and powerful addition to their hard-working fleet of groomers will be a Kassbohrer winch PB 400W. This machine will greatly enhance their capacity to ensure the mountain is set up for ideal skiing and boarding every day of the 2014 season.

Exclusive to CHILL pass-holders, with thanks to Underground Coffee and Porters, receive a FREE* delicious Porters espresso coffee. Get in early as offer open weekdays, until Friday 4th July.

*Conditions apply: One free coffee per CHILL pass holder tracked in. Limit one per customer per day. Offer valid from season opening through to Friday 4th July. Midweek only, does not apply during weekends. Take advantage of free wifi throughout café and base area, and at lift drive stations.

State Highway 73, Springfield

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

56.

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 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. The road from the bottom hut 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.

The terrain at Mt Olympus is suited to 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. 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.…

Accommodation

The true Mt Olympus experience is found by booking a night or two in the Top Hut. 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.

There has been some serious work going on over the

Check List For all; radio through from bottom hut for road clearance to top car park.

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.

Key Contacts www.mtolympus.co.nz Accom: bookings@mtolympus.co.nz Mtn Ph: +64 3 318 5840 CHILL Tip If you’re staying the night don’t forget your togs (Aussies see: swimmers) for the hot tub. summer so if you haven’t stayed at Olympus for a year or two, now’s the time to do so.

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.

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 like-minded individuals.

Make sure to go online and book your space early.

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 because in the valley it might seem like you’d be blown off the mountain, but once you’re up on the ski area you’ll be surprised how sheltered it is, the wind often blows over top.

2014 News Mt Olympus is famous for the Top Hut and they're pleased to report it just keeps getting better. New bunk rooms and bathrooms complement the huge amount of work done over the past couple of seasons, so go up and see what the club has been up to over summer.

58.

Methven 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. Extensive grooming and snowmaking ensures you have plenty of skiable terrain.

Where to Stay Abisko Lodge & Apartments

Central location, friendly atmosphere. Accommodation to meet most budgets. Ensuite lodge rooms, self contained apartments & powered campsites. Spa/Sauna available (fees apply), mountain transfers from the door. Special deals online.

74 Main Street Ph:+64 3 302 8875 www.abisko.co.nz Brinkley Resort

Alternatively, the family friendly Porters Ski Area in the Craigieburn Range is only one hour drive. Mt Olympus lies even closer. The ski area turn off is 20minutes from Methven. With its rope tows it is suited for the more adventurous skiers and snowboarders.

Heilskiing is a favored activity in the winter months, with Methven HeliSki departing daily from Methven. 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.

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

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 E: info@thebrownpub.co.nz www.thebrownpub.co.nz Big Tree Lodge Methven

Backpacker Hostel with selfcontained unit. Dorm rooms from $38, Twins/Double rooms $79.

Clean, homely, self-catering, free coffee, internet & laundry, 3min walk to town centre. Zenbu hotspot. Please mention CHILL. 25 SouthBelt P: +64 3 302 9575 E: info@bigtreelodge.co.nz www.bigtreelodge.co.nz

Blue Pub

The place to be with a wicked bar, sunny verandah and 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

Methven Heli Ski

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 E: info@alpinesports.co.nz www.alpinesports.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

bookings@methvensportsmassage.co.nz

www.methvensportsmassage.co.nz

59.

Methven Heliskiing Founded in 1986, Methven Heliski operations are guided by the internationally renowned Alpine Guides (Aoraki) Ltd. 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

7th June

DJ Party Alby & others (Mt Hutt Opening weekend)

21st June

Chris woods Duo

28th June

No Secrets Band

5th July

The Bubblemen Trio Band

12th July

The Dions Band

19th July

Cougerlounge Band

20th July

Devilskin Band (Sunday in Samuels Bar - cover charge applies)

26th July

The Brewers Band

2nd Aug

Tex Machine Band

9th Aug

Unfinished Business Band

16th Aug

DJ KC (12am - 2am)

27th Sept

DJ KC (9.30pm - 12am)

18th Oct

DJ Party Nite (Mt Hutt Closing weekend)

25th Oct

Robbie & Friends Band

The Mighty Blue Pub is the place to go in Methven during the winter Live Bands, Duos, DJs and Jam Nights every Thursday and Saturday nights!!!

See www. thebluepub.co.nz/ gig guide for more information on each gig. No cover for

Main Bar gigs.

Where to Eat

The Last Post Dom’s Pizza & Kebabs The Brown Pub The Blue Pub Best Coffee

Primo e Secundo Café Arabica Licensed Café Useful Resources www.amazingspace.co.nz Don’t Miss Cinema Paradiso Methven Heritage Centre’s collection of snow memorabilia.

Want to experience a different kind of adrenaline rush?

Check out licencetoride.co.nz for information on local mountain biking trails in Methven.

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

60.

Local Yocal TOm Dunbar Tom Dunbar grew up racing about Hanmer Springs Ski Area (Amuri), and has continued his passion for skiing as head coach for his Canterbury junior freeriding camp and a host /guide for Neon PomPom. CHILL caught up with Tom while the honey bees were buzzing and ideas for winter were flowing.

P: Geoff Browne. Hanmer Springs Ski Area

of skiers from NZ, Australia, Europe and America between July and October to the Canterbury ski area's as well as arranging heli days and nonskiing adventures for them.

Where did you grow up skiing in NZ? I grew up skiing at Amuri Ski Club in Hanmer Springs.

How often do you get back there for a ski?

I try to get there for at least one day every winter season.

What is the Farmers Cup? It's an annual event held between Amuri Ski Club and Mt Olympus. I think it was originally organised and named because the two clubs having a large base of farming members.

Age 31

Where do you live? Windwhistle

Current go to ski?

This season I have a K2 from the Annex Range. It’s 191cm and looks like it should suit me quite nicely.

Best in what conditions?

Like any ski the best conditions for them are deep powder, but it’s generally designed for that type of snow. It should work for the mountains and areas where I like to ski around Canterbury.

Summer time Job? I keep honey bees.

Did the honey flow over summer?

Yes but not as much as we would have liked.

Winter time Job? Once the bees go into hibernation, we (my brother in-law Simon Guild and I) run Neon PomPom, our take on New Zealand's first guided backcountry skiing and fully-catered chalet experience. It's an all-inclusive deal where we take private groups

Are you torn, between your roots and playground at your back door, Mt Olympus?

We are lucky having so many great ski areas really close to where I live, so I'm not torn at all.

A few years ago you put NZ on the map, with a winning run in the Xtreme Verbier? What year was that? Was this the pinnacle of your competition skiing career?

That was 2005. Unfortunately I didn't manage to win the competition which meant that my pinnacle was a year before when I was crowned the Amuri Ski Club Bacardi Cup Winner.

What can you remember about the day?

Xtreme Verbier was a great day. There was plenty of fresh snow with blue skies and everything went to plan.

What is it about skiing steep terrain that gets you excited?

Skiing something challenging is always exciting. These days I get a lot more satisfaction taking our guests into terrain that they may not have skied before. It doesn't necessarily have to be steep though - as long as they feel they have achieved something, I'm happy.

the most important part is having an attitude

61.

that embraces taking the path less travelled.

Back on the home front, you’ve been coaching a few young Canterbury skiers in big mountain skiing. Tell us more. Is it the terrain, the club environment, the rope tows or pure skill that brings the best out of the young skiers?

I think the whole environment is the most important factor to bring the best out of the young skiers. They need to be surrounded with other like minded people and be supported in the right way.

More recently Neon PomPom has also become a winter focus. What’s in the name?

We wanted a name that was a bit irreverent, a bit memorable and acknowledged the fun side of skiing and snowboarding.

Chalet accommodation and guided ski services. Is there anything else like it in NZ? As far as we know there is no-one else offering a dedicated all-inclusive guided ski chalet experience in one tidy package. The big thing is convenience everything is taken care of for those without the time to arrange it themselves.

Can you run through a typical few days for a Neon PomPom ski enthusiast?

It all starts with them arriving at the airport in Christchurch where we'll pick them up in our 4WDS. Then it's off to the chalet for dinner and a beer before getting some rest for the following day. After a cooked breakie and lots of coffee from our head barista Si, we head up the mountain with the conditions that best suit the skiers' ability on the day. If they want to throw in a heli day or two, we'll watch the weather for the best conditions. Once we're all done, we head home to the chalet where our guests can have a beer or wine and soak in the hot tub while the chef prepares dinner. Each day a plan is made to ensure guests get the most out of their stay with us.

Can any skiing ability join in?

Definitely, we can cater for any ability. Obviously our experience is built around the club fields and back

country more so than the resorts, so the most important part is having an attitude that embraces taking the path less travelled. If skiers have a sense of adventure, they'll be happy at the Neon PomPom.

How do we hook up?

Just drop us a line and we'll customise something for you.

Favourite day in the mountains, heli or rope tow?

You can't beat heliskiing for the overall experience, but the best skiing I have had has been accessed using the rope tow lifts around Canterbury.

Next champ(s) to watch out for in big Mtn Skiing in NZ? Sam Hewitt - he's only seven but already skiing where many adults won't. Watch this space.

Plans for 2014 winter skiing?

I am running a freeski program again for junior free skiers looking to develop their skills in Big Mountain skiing. It will be eight different coaching days throughout the season including the Chill Junior Big Mountain events. Showing more Neon Pompom guests how great Canterbury skiing can be.

Useful Resources www.neonpompom.co.nz Tom Dunbar: tom@neonpompom.co.nz

Simon & Kate Guild and Amelia & Tom Dunbar

62.

Ashburton The Ashburton District stretches from the Alps to the Ocean and is bordered by braided rivers.

Encompassing Ashburton, Methven, Rakaia, Mt Somers and surrounding high country areas, there is an impressive contrast of New Zealand scenery.

After arriving at Christchurch International Airport or prior to departing, Ashburton Township’s proximity to Christchurch makes it an ideal location to stay overnight.

There is an array of restaurants, bars and cafes to check out.

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.

Where to Stay Hotel Ashburton

The perfect place to stay on the way to or from the airport, and only 20 minutes to Methven, with plenty of free parking for cars, campers and mobile homes.

Racecourse Road NZ Free Ph: 0800 330 880 www.hotelash.co.nz

Best Coffee The Somerset Grocer Nosh Local Ski Areas: Mt Olympus 1 hr 30min Mt Hutt 1 hr 10 min Fox Peak: 1 hr 40min Mt Dobson: 1 hr 40min

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 Road, Tinwald NZ Free Ph: 0800 846 9253 www.tinwaldmotels.co.nz Where to Eat The Somerset Grocer

Methven Heli Ski - Rakaia Valley

ST T BURNE T ASHBURTON *See listing for conditions.

The Somerset Grocer a cafe & gourmet deli serving good coffee & great food. We take pride in bringing you the best in local and international produce, in a relaxed and funky atmosphere. **$1 cheese rolls when purchasing a Bach coffee or Harney & Sons tea with a valid Ski Pass.

Cnr East & Burnett Street P: +64 3 307 5899 www.somersetgrocer.co.nz

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

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

63.

Braided Rivers Restaurant & Bar

a cold drink and bite to eat at the Lake House Restaurant and Bar overlooking the lake, before returning and completing the 21km loop.

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 Street P: +64 3 307 2541 www.braidedrivers.co.nz

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

Car park and start of track is at the south side of the Ashburton Bridge, S.H.1 Ashburton Hakatere River Trails

Speight’s Ale House

Braided Rivers Restaurant & Bar

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 Street P: +64 3 308 5980

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 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 becoming a large single track network with bermed corners, wooden bridges and natural features. There is an additional 7kms of technical tack above the bridge.

LOCAL BIKE SHOPS Cyclerama

P: Methven Heli Ski - Reischek Glacier Arrowsmith Range

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

10 % Discount+

246 Burnett St // 03 307 2541 +

See listing for conditions.

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

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.

ThermaTech Undie500. Mt Cheeseman

ThermaTech Undie500. Mt Cheeseman

P: Ross Mackay. Riley Bathurst

P: Joe Harrison. Skier Hamish Berkett. Fox Peak

P: Geoff Browne. Skier Sam Masters. Broken River

P: Riley Bathurst. Henry Wardworth-Watts

P: Sininfexnz.com. Broken River

P: Sininfexnz.com. Broken River

P: Sininfexnz.com. Broken River

66.

Mackenzie The Mackenzie Region is a true winter wonder land. 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 mountains vistas. The Ski Shack Snowsport Store is located in Fairlie, offering gear hire and sales.

Where to Eat

Eat Deli & Bar Fairlie Bakehouse Farm Barn Cafe SH79 north of Fairlie

Best Coffee

Eat Deli & Bar

Tekapo Springs - Snow Tubing

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.

State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo 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 tuning your skis and boards!

9-10 Aorangi Crescent Lake Tekapo

P: +64 3 680 6700

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

Discover Tekapo

*Fast IAC Internet *Cabins & Motels *Online Deals

Ski the Tasman

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 observatory.

You’re only a short distance from here.

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.

Godley Hotel, Tekapo Village

P: +64 3 680 6942 E: accommodation@discovertekapo.co.nz www.discovertekapo.co.nz Best Coffee

Astro Cafe – Mt John Run 77 Cafe and General Store

Fairlie / Mt Dobson Ski Field

Omarama

67.

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

Snow Sports

Aoraki Mt Cook Heli Tekapo Helicopters has some of the best untouched heliskiing in New Zealand. They operate around the Mt Cook Region and utilize the high terrain to provide you with an unforgettable alpine experience. Let them fly you to this incredible playground for the ultimate alpine adrenaline rush!

Main Road SH 8, Lake Tekapo P: +64 3 680 6229 NZ Free Ph: 0800 35 98 35 www.tekapohelicopters.co.nz

Ski the Tasman

Ski The Tasman An extraordinary ski experience for ordinary skiers. Flying 01 July-30 Sept in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park.

Includes 3 ski plane flights, lunch, and the 2 longest ski runs in NZ. P: +64 3 435 1834 E: mtcook@alpineguides.co.nz www.skithetasman.co.nz

Omarama TOP 10 Holiday Park Come and warm up in our fully self-contained 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, Omarama NZ Free Ph: 0800 662 726 E: stay@omaramatop10.co.nz www.omaramatop10.co.nz Don’t Miss

Soak in the hot pools at Tekapo Springs. Gaze at the stars at Earth & Sky. Visit Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Museum.

Where to Eat

Mackenzie's Bar and Grill Kohan Japanese Restaurant Pepe’s Pizza & Pasta Restaurant.

“One of the best stargazing sites on Earth”

Bob Park, Ed. International Dark Skies Assn.

Book a tour:

Earth & Sky

Take some time to play this winter.

Discover Mt Cook Mackenzie.

Accessible, uncrowded, spectacular.

Find more amazing places like this at www.mackenziewinter.co.nz

Lake Tekapo / Mt Cook / Twizel / Fairlie

www.earthandsky.co.nz

Mackenzie Region

Your winter playground

68.

Mt Dobson

For those in the know Mt Dobson is an underrated 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 is 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.

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.

Key Contacts www.mtdobson.co.nz Mtn Ph: +64 3 685 8039 CHILL Tip 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. For the non-skier, views from the car park watching skiers in the West Valley can be entertaining.

Accommodation

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 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.

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!

Peter Foote

New Accommodation in Fairlie: The Musterer’s High Country Accommodation with hot pools.

There are approximately 2000 beds in Tekapo, 30 mins drive on State Highway 8.

Event Profile – Dobson Dash

The Dobson Dash is a ski/board, bike and run event.

Starting from the top of the chair lift the finish line is at Kemble Pub. It’s a great event and worthy of giving a go, 20th Sept.

69.

Programme Profile – First Timers

Learn to ski or snowboard in all day sunshine on a huge learners/intermediate slope. 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.

News 2014

Their new PB400 snow groomer can provide you with world quality snow conditions.

New snow fences installed to improve snow cover in lean season.

Further road carriageway improvements.

WiFi now available in base area.

Web cam from the top.

Terrain and Weather Tip 2014

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.

The West Valley, accessed from the triple chair lift, has a variety of runs popular with most novice skiers and boarders.

Adam Cuff. Mt Dobson Ski School

70.

Roundhill Check List

Renowned as one of the best family fields in New Zealand, Roundhill caters to all levels of skiing/ riding. Roundhill captures all day sun and has some of the best views you’ll find in NZ. Two T-bars provide plenty of groomed intermediate terrain and the park provides features for beginner/intermediate 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. The reward at the top is 783m of vertical, the longest in Australasia.

A scenic drive around the eastern side of Lake Tekapo leads you to one of the easier 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 huge 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

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

For rope tow enthusiasts: Ski/ride the Heritage Express on a powder day.

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

www.roundhill.co.nz Mtn Ph: +64 21 680 694 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. 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 café 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, hot pools & ice rink, hydro canals and protected night sky there are plenty of other activities should you strike a down day. Cafes and restaurants along with a local tavern keep you entertained at night too.

71.

Event Profile - Dads’ Day at Roundhill

Come event weekends the mountain has a great atmosphere and highlights include the hilarious 80’s Day, the Karl Burtscher Memorial GS, Skidoo Hill Climb, Dads’ Day and CHILL Gromfest. Kids bring your Dad up to Roundhill and they receive half price lift passes, then see who’s the fastest when you race with them in a dual slalom! A fun event for all ages.

Great prizes on offer.

to children aged 8 and over, kids must be of an intermediate ability or above and be capable of skiing through gates. Training begins at 12:40pm and runs for 2 hours duration at a cost of $25 per session.

Booking is essential either at the ticket office on the day or by phoning 021 680 694. Space is limited.

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 to the 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 fronts that pass up the country are the ones to look out for – powder awaits!

News 2014

Programme Profile – Kids Ski Race Training

Roundhill runs a kids ski race training programme on weekends throughout the winter, this is open

Roundhill have a new Pisten Bully 400 which is a larger more powerful machine than their 2 other groomers. This will enable the ski area to continue delivering top condition piste for skiers and snowboarders, covering more terrain more efficiently.

RICHMOND RANGE 2133m

Terrain Park Car Park Snowmaking Oz zi’ sW ay

Tobogganing

n

LIF

Ru

T2

n Fu

1620m

T 1500m

Ski Patrol

Von Brown Hut

Toilet FIS

Café/Refreshments Rental Equipment

Base Area 1350m

72.

Fox Peak

Fox Peak is one of the smaller ski clubs on the CHILL Pass, but one of the largest when it comes to its terrain and suitability for all skiing levels. Located 35 minutes from Fairlie, along the spectacular Two Thumb Range, the ski area boasts amazing views of South Canterbury and the Mackenzie Country.

Three easy-to-ride rope tows access 500 hectares and 580 vertical meters of uncrowded terrain. There is also a groomed platter lift for beginners at the base of the ski area. The terrain ranges from big wide-open faces, which are great for beginners and intermediates, to the more challenging runs in South Basin and along the North Basin Ridge.

For the more advanced, or those prepared to hike or tour, the options are boundless. Head to South Basin or up to the Peak and drop off towards the Tarn. Definitely talk to the locals, you may just find yourself on a guided tour.

The car park is located at the base of the tows allowing easy access to the beginner slopes and greater ski area.

The field is run by a dedicated club and is open only on weekends. The access road crosses farm land, so be sure to leave gates as you find them.

Accommodation

Nestled amongst the trees halfway up the access road is Fox Lodge, backpacker style-mountain accommodation.

It’s self-catered but there is a modern kitchen with everything you need to rustle up your yummy dinner.

Check List

For everyone; sign up for the Fox Trot, there’s limited spots so first in first served.

For touring; summit Fox Peak – You can either ski into the South or North Basin and back to the ski area or explore some amazing back-country including Fox Peak summit.

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

Key Contacts

www.foxpeak.co.nz Accom Ph & bookings: +64 3 684 7358, patim@xtra.co.nz Mtn Ph: +64 3 685 8539, Snow Ph: +64 3 688 0044.

CHILL Tip

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

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.

Event Profile – Fox Trot

The Fox Peak Fox Trot is Fox Peak’s funniest events, 2-3 Aug 2014. The format changes year to year, but there’s an overnight stay, an on-mountain event, and a ski tour with the locals for those who are keen.

Programme Profile

There are no official programmes but if you’re looking for the best skiing on the 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.

The

Great 2 - 3 August

Lodge bookings essential // www.foxpeak.co.nz

73.

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 two 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 get 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. 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: Pray for the big easterly dump.

For the curious: Pack your touring gear and

skin up Te Kohurau, the highest point on the

St Marys Range.

Key Contacts: www.skiawakino.com Accom. Ph: +64 21 0243 9273 (David Campbell) Mtn Ph: +64 21 890 584 (John Hamilton) CHILL Tip Look out for the midweek opening planned for late August – fair chance you’ll have the place to yourselves.

Summit 1942m 1880m

Fosters Peak 1890m

Ice Cream Fosters chutes

Ridge tow

Main tow Hut Creek

Glacier Basin

Waitaki Face

Day hut 1450m

Learner tow

Arthur’s Gut

Ex-Access Tow run 4WD Access road

Programme Profile – Lessons Awakino is run on a real do it yourself attitude. Occasionally a club member with ski instruction qualifications is available for oneon-one lessons at a reasonable price.

Terrain and Weather Tip The field has many aspects, meaning you can ride in all sorts of snow conditions on one day. Grooming is limited to an occasional firing up of the vintage 1980s Kassbohrer, so don’t expect corduroy runs. Club members are happy to show you the best places to go, but bring full avalanche gear because much of the good terrain is out-of-bounds.

Beginner 10%

Intermediate 30% Advanced 60%

Walking access/ traverse

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 and spa pool.

Accom lodge 1170m

Event Profile – Book a Ski Area As one of the smaller club ski areas, the focus is on running the ski area but if you’ve ever wanted a ski area to yourselves, why not hire the entire lodge?

For 20 people it’s only $500, $25 dollars a head, awesome! Keep an eye out for a 1-2 week continuous opening in late Aug – snow permitting.

www.skiawakino.com

News 2014 The lodge developments for the 2014 season have already been tested, the spa pool has passed with flying colours. Their main efforts have been to repair the flood damaged road from last year and get systems in place to deploy the ridge tow (here’s hoping). Some more work on the towline is proposed to try and get it to hold the snow a bit better.

74.

Treble Cone

Located 35 minutes’ drive from Wanaka, Treble Cone (TC) is the largest ski area in the Queenstown and Wanaka Lakes District, boasting the longest vertical rise. 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 six seater Home Basin Express chairlift, which offers on and off piste routes varying from easy green to challenging black. For intermediate plus skiers and boarders, head skier’s right to reach the celebrated terrain of the Saddle Quad chairlift. From here experts can access the renowned Motatapu Chutes while intermediate skiers and riders will enjoy the long and un-crowded groomed terrain before adventuring into the natural pipes, steeps and Jazz Intermediate Fun Park.

Those new to skiing are welcomed at TC, 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 café 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

Check List

For families: Check out Treble Cone’s Jazz Kids Fun Trail featuring NEW bumps and jumps in 2014.

Take advantage of the NEW Saddle Basin return trail (High Street) making accessing the long and un-crowded terrain safer and easier.

For the photo album: Be sure to get your photo taken in the TC photo frame overlooking Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. It’s great for your Facebook or Instagram profile.

For the advanced: The Motatapu Chutes provide some of the country’s most extreme inbound terrain.

Key Contacts www.treblecone.com Mtn Ph: +64 3 443 7443

CHILL Tip Enjoy the rest you get on the chairlifts, they’re a bit of a novelty on a CHILL Pass.

Burn your extra energy lapping the unique terrain of the Saddle Basin or searching for pow on the Summit or Motatapu (expert only) hikes.

75.

with regular and premium skis, free helmet rental for kids and an equipment workshop. Those with children will be pleased to hear that they also have a full and half day Snow Sports programme offering options on and off 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.

2014 News

High Street trail extension providing a smoother, wider and longer return home from the Saddle Basin New mini features added to the Jazz Kids’ Fun Park Genuine ‘Flexi’ multi day discounts

Accommodation

Wanaka comes alive in winter with bars, restaurants and off snow activities offering plenty of alternatives for families and groups of mates alike. The compact town provides easy access to a wide variety of accommodation within walking Cheapskates Wanaka

Set in the heart of the Southern Lakes snow scene, Cheapskates is your only stop for all your snowboarding and skateboarding needs. Best brands, best selection, best service, guaranteed.

Spencer House Mall, Dunmore St PH: +64 3 443 5548 E: Wanaka@cheapskates.co.nz www.cheapskates.co.nz distance from the town centre. There’s a bed for every style and budget, but you’re best to leave the camping for the warmer months.

Event Profile– Banked Slalom

The TC Banked Slalom has well and truly cemented itself in the New Zealand snowboard calendar, throwing up a challenging course with the prize money to match. The Bank Slalom utilising TC’s unique terrain, giving pro, semi-pro and amateur riders equal opportunity to walk away as champion.

Programme Profile– Sofa Ski Camp

TC is the Southern Hemisphere’s exclusive home of the internationally recognised Sofa Ski School - Ski Improvement Camps. In the five day, high intensity camps, hand-picked coaches will help you achieve your goals, utilising video analysis and on snow training to improve your ski technique.

Camps are held over six weeks throughout July and August.

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.

Queenstown Snowcats is NZ’s newest and most unique backcountry riding experience. Heli accesed Cat Skiing, Ten runs a day + lunch for you and your friends, Pick up/drop off in Queenstown.

Great fun Great value !!!

P: +64 27 747 3838 E: qsnowcats@gmail.com www.queenstownsnowcats.com Best Coffee

Federal Diner (Wanaka) Vudu Cafe (Queenstown) Where to Eat

Kai Whakapai (Wanaka) The Spice Room Lone Star Café & Bar (Wanaka & Queenstown) Motogrill (Queenstown) Flight Park

P: Tess Carney. Snowboarder Shane Orchard. Temple Basin

P: Riley Bathurst. Snowboarder Ben Comber. Mackenzie.

P: Ross Mackay. Temple Basin

Methven Heli Ski

Caption this...

Methven Heli Ski

Get creative and write a caption for this photo.

Winners will receive the highly sort after licence to Chill T Shirt plus fame & glory in next years Licence to Chill Manual. Post your entries on facebook.com/ CHILL.Pass..

78.

Backcountry Snow Safety Courses

Back Country Snow Safety Courses

The Southern Alps has shaped South Island’s landscape, their daunting natural beauty, snowcapped 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 – 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. If leaving from within a ski area boundary tell ski patrol.

-Be prepared – know your limits and take sufficient supplies.

-And tell others what you are seeing – report it and share it. – See article on pg80.

Snow Safety Courses Broken River Courses MSC Avalanche Awareness Course (Sunday night & Monday full day) Jul 20-21 Five Day MSC Mountain Safety Backcountry Avalanche Course Jul 22-26

Off Piste Telemark Skills Course Aug 13-15 To book the all course and accommodation - email bookings@brokenriver.co.nz Otago Polytechnic Avalanche Training The Avalanche Programme is designed for people working in the mountain environment in a professional capacity.

Avalanche One 12 - 18 & 20 - 26 Sept Treble Cone, Wanaka Avalanche Two 23 - 27 July - Field Training, Wanaka 6 - 13 Sept - Integrated Practical Assessment, Wanaka P: +64 3 445 9932 E: barbara.emmitt@op.ac.nz www.avalanche.ac.nz

79.

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 as well as use and companion rescue.

Spaces are limited, four sets of T/S/P available for hire.

2-Day course with Anna Keeling & Shane Orchard 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 1: learn to use transceivers and effect a rescue, using the MSC Avalanche Forecast Advisory and techniques for evaluating the stability of the snowpack. Day 2: Travel through and learn about avalanche terrain on a day tour.

Note: A minimum of 4 participants to run courses. Cost: $195/2 days Dates: Shane Orchard: Jun 27-28, Jul 18-19, Jul 31–Aug 1 Anna Keeling: Aug 8-9, Aug 20-21 Other courses avail. on demand.

If you and three friends each buy a Tracker 2, shovel and probe from CHILL we’ll throw in a snow safety course with Shane.

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

NZ Mountain Safety Council The Mountain Safety Council run avalanche and alpine training courses in selected locations as well as provide back country 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 please visit www.mountainsafety. org.nz. 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/ field location will be decided closer to date) July 11 (evening) & 12 (field) July 11 (evening) & 13 (field) Aug 8 (evening) & 10 (field) Sept 5 (evening) & 6 (field) Sept 5 (evening) & 7 (field) Canterbury: P: +64 3 313 0507

E: canterbury@mountainsafety.org.nz

Wanaka July 18 (evening) & 19 (field) Aug 8 (evening) & 9 (field) Aug 22 (evening) & 23 (field) Sept 5 (evening) & 6 (field) Sept 12 (evening) & 13 (field) Sept 19 (evening) & 20 (field) Wanaka: P: +64 3 409 2025 E: wanaka@mountainsafety.org.nz

The New Zealand Snow Safety Institute (NZSSI) Located and 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.

7-Day Multi Skill Mountaineering Course Jul 14-20 | Aug 18-25 | Sept 15-21 2-Day Avalanche Awareness Aug 2-3 5-Day Back Country Skills Skiers & Snowboarders Jul 28 – Aug 1 5-Day Mountain Skills for Climbers and Trampers Aug 11-15 | Sept 8-12 2-Day Mountain Skills I-III Jul 19-20 (I) Aug 19-20 (II) Aug 29-30 (III) Private and tailored courses, developed to suit your requirements and to meet your specific needs available upon request.

P: +64 3 377 7788 E: info@nzssi.com www.nzssi.com

80.

Make an Observation – We Need Your Help

Andrew Hobman, Avalanche & Alpine Safety Programme Manager at New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (NZMSC), asks us to help by making observations on avalanche and snow conditions in your local region.

Avalanche forecasting requires extensive study and field observations. However, field observation is where

people share what they are seeing in the field by posting videos, photos and blogs. snowpack conditions and Class 3 data is information about the weather.

The Backcountry Avalanche Advisory (www.avalanche.net.nz) is a broad regional forecast, formulated with the best information available to the forecasters at the time. The forecast is a considered evaluation of the expected conditions over the next 24 hours. But avalanche conditions change quickly. You need to take this information and apply it to what you are seeing right now. The more recent the information, taken from where you want to go, the better it is for assessing the situation.

The most effective way to know whether the avalanches are running naturally, or people are setting them off, is when other people share what they are seeing in the field by posting videos, photos and blogs online through www.avalanche.net.nz, Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr.

Sluffing from steep angles today, reasonably firm under foot.

everyone can really make a difference. The NZMSC Avalanche Centre has created an Observation Area where you can report any notable avalanches.

The New Zealand Avalanche Centre provides ‘Back Country Avalanche Advisory’ as a public service, it is advisory only. In avalanche forecasting we talk about the importance of Class 1, 2 and 3 data to make an assessment of the current avalanche hazard. Class 1 data, the most important, is bull’s-eye information that avalanches are happening. This includes things like where, when and how big. This is the best sign that the snowpack is unstable and you probably shouldn’t ski similar slopes. Class 2 data is information about the

The www.avalanche.net.nz has a ‘Make an Observation’ area on each of the forecast pages. This is a great place to share what you are seeing by posting images or just a quick blog of the avalanche and snowpack conditions.

Everyone can view the latest posts by clicking on the ‘View an Observation’ tab on the same menu. By posting photos and videos of any avalanche events (Class 1) or the quality, or not, of the snow (Class 2) you provide important information to help augment the Back Country Avalanche Advisory and moreover, it gives the forecasters better information to create the advisories with real time evidence.

Your observations are critical for ongoing research. It is also useful as a learning tool to help other understand how and why accidents occur and, hopefully, to help prevent further accidents.

You can report an observation in form of an email to info@avalanche.net.nz or online at www.avalanche.net.nz. It’s quick and as simple as putting a pin in a map and making some comments. You can also upload pictures to help people see what you saw. You can not only submit your observations, but also see what others have reported.

If online is not an option, you can report by telephone and talk or leave a message with a forecaster: Call or text 021 857 609 (June-Nov) - they will return your call.

82.

Fresh Snow too Good to be True James Flockton James travels from Lennox Head, Northern NSW, Australia, to get his annual mountain air fix. His latest trip (in 2013) was a great success, with fresh snow and professional guided daily adventures. James shares his story and fresh plans for more trips in the future.

Age: 38 Snowboard Set up: For backcountry missions a Burton Freebird Splitboard / Voile Light Rail Bindings / Voile Poles, skins, crampons. Side country / resort riding a Nitro Punisher with Burton Missions bindings.

What attracts you to an urban lifestyle at Lennox Head?

Lennox is a beautiful part of the world to live in with plenty of natural beauty, a pleasant comfortable climate, good waves, easy access to fun mountain biking trails and a job that affords me time to enjoy all of the above. Day to day life is pretty cruisy in these parts – plus NZ is a short flight away. On the plane home from every snow trip, the desire to live in the mountains is overwhelming, and I spend the following few weeks planning my move. But that’s as far as it gets, maybe one day it will happen, when I’m truly ready perhaps.

How long have you been snowboarding?

I went on my first family ski trip at 14 and moved over to snowboards at 22. A total of 24 years which sounds like a lot but its really only ever been 1-2 weeks a year in that time.

Why adventure to the mountains, is it the contrast to your urban lifestyle?

I just love getting out there and playing in general, sounds a bit cheesy but I feel at home in the mountains. It’s my favourite place to play. I feel free – from the responsibility of being a parent, from work but mostly I feel a sense of peace with no technology to distract me. I think I just like the adventure of the unknown. You don’t have to try hard to get me locked into an adventure, plant a little seed and I’m there.

Which alpine settings in New Zealand have you travelled to before?

Mainly around Southern Lakes, plus Ohau. But also around Nelson and Craigieburn on my mountain bike.

Recently you embarked on an adventure into the back country in the Southern Alps. Tell us about it.

My good mate and partner in adventure, Race and I had a week in the South Island in August 2013. We had a few separate backcountry adventures; starting

riding great terrain that was perfect for our ability there was a whole lot of hooting and smiling going on that day

with a three day hut experience at Black Peak which is a private hut owned by Aspiring Guides. We had an unforgettable heli day in the Harris Mountains, and a day exploring the backcountry of Ohau and Porters.

Couldn’t have dreamed for better weather and powder ….just perfect!

Did you have any previous back country experience?

I’ve previously had a couple days out the back in NZ (Treble Cone and heli) and Australia (around Koziosko – Twin Peaks and Ultra World), but most of my experience has been in France. Mainly out the back of Les 2 Alpes (La Grave and St Christophe) but also some time at Sainte Foy, Chamonix. La Grave is a particularly amazing place, essentially lift accessed backcountry, no piste bashers or ski patrol, just a cable car, a mountain, glacier and 2000m vert. For me backcountry is about getting away from everyone, it’s about quality not quantity, earning your turns and getting closer to your chosen partners for the trip. NZ’s backcountry has all these attributes!

Tell us more!

Well we arrived in Wanaka the night before our trip, late, too late but that’s what happens when flights get delayed due to fog. The following morning we rocked up at Aspiring Guides office at 6am for a gear check with our guide, Nico, and to meet our partners for the trip. The crew was made up of four, plus the guide.

We headed out to the heli pad for a short flight up to Black Peak Hut, dropped supplies off at the hut and then the heli took us to a saddle just off Black Peak. Day one was spent doing a big loop around the southern area of Black Peak. The day ended watching an amazing sunset with a cup of tea and being waited on by Nico for the evening.

Day two was spent doing a loop around the northern area, including a nice chute and reaching the peak of Black Peak. Day three we had the choice of touring back to Treble Cone or doing a different tour with a heli pick up. We opted for the tour back as Nico recommended it. Black Peak has some amazing terrain, you could be happy just skiing Black Peak on its own for three days – I will return one day.

Each day we ascended a little over 1000m, which doesn’t sound a lot, but that’s three good runs in great snow, with no one else around, fresh tracks and amazing views.

For me, that’s all I want from my snowboarding. Coming over the ridge and looking down on all the resort skiers in Treble Cone really makes you realise how special it is –

felt so weird seeing other people after three days with just the five of us.

We also had three more amazing days after that trip. A day of heli with Whit Thurlow from Apiring Guides / Harris Mountain Heli Ski, a day out the back of Ohau, down to Dumbell Lake and a final day out the back of Porters in Crystal Valley. Each day was full fresh tracks, big smiles and good times.

off the beaten track locations like Greenland.

83.

My big dream is to ride some steeps in Alaska – my inspiration for split boarding has come from Jeremy Jones ‘Deeper’ project.

Can you see yourself returning to the mountains on a regularly basis?

Absolutely, I generally have a trip every year and sometimes, if I’m lucky manage to fit in an additional northern hemisphere trip, always France!

Useful Resources www.aspiringguides.com

Does a guided trip mean you still have the freedom to explore?

Not always, in the past I have found that guides ski to match the ability of the least experienced person, which can be really frustrating, but that seems to be more the case in Europe. During our trip we skied with two different guides who were both great at taking us where we wanted to go and listening to our requests. I can’t say enough good things about Whit Thurlow – the guy’s thirst for life is contagious and he clearly puts 200% into his work. The main thing is that he had us riding great terrain that was perfect for our ability ……there was a whole lot of hooting and smiling going on that day.

Was the riding that good?

Epic. Fresh tracks every run the whole six days. Hiking gives you access to freshies, almost guaranteed. We were pretty lucky. You can’t beat the feeling of getting to the top of Mt Sutton two days after a 30cm dump and looking down to Dumbell Lake to realise that no ones been down there yet and then getting 3 runs in from different aspects.

What did you learn from your travels?

Heaps. The amount of thinking that was going on in our guides head is huge. He’s watching the snow pack, the sun, temps, which aspects we are sking and which ones we need to get to before they get too much sun, route choice is crucial.

Did the hut keep you warm?

Absolutely, the hut was small but warm. The first night the wind threatened to take us away – luckily it was tied down well. Nico treated us like kings and essentially we lounged on our beds while he served us a 3 course meal.

What can you take from the raw alpine environment that helps maintain a balance in your busy lifestyle?

A whole load of good times, good memories, stress reduction and a sense of achieving another dream. The only thing is that I dream up adventures faster than I can realise them. The buzz I get from riding powder is like no other, better than anything else in this world – for me anyway.

Your bucket list, what’s next?

Oh the dreams, I want to explore out the back of all the NZ ski areas, check some glaciers out and hopefully reach the stage where we can confidently get heli dropped to huts and explore on our own – still have some learning to do though, as avalanche education is mind boggling.

Plus I’d love to explore places like Canada and Japan or some more

84.

Fresh Tracks Slackcountry is a great way of scoring fresh tracks and honing snow safety skills. Remember, you are outside the patrolled area and knowledge, equipment and snow safety care is required. Local shredstresses share their recent adventures.

Craigieburn Range Slack Country

Alex Brook

The New Zealand club ski areas are a great gateway to a huge range of easily accessed backcountry zones. Within Canterbury I have spent a lot of time exploring these areas but have still only scratched the surface of boundless ranges which run from the edges of the patrolled ski areas.

Mt Cheeseman’s second T-bar takes you the top of Mt Cockayne and provides access to the ridge which wraps around Tarn Basin. Just dropping off the saddle at the top of the T-Bar you can ski half way to the Tarn and it is only a short traverse and 2 minute boot back to come out into the ski area. For a longer run it is an easy walk around the ridge to access wide chutes which open out into the bowl for a long fall line run. Once down by the Tarn it is a 15min boot pack up to the ridge.

Craigieburn is my favourite ski area for accessing long fall line runs which funnel down to easy walks back to the access tow. Middle Basin can be reached by heading looker’s right along the ridge from the top of the lift and opens up to a wide bowl ending down at the last corner of the access road. Heading further around the ridge towards North Peak, North Middle Basin can be reached providing more lines.

To lookers left of the tow line a short walk will get you to the summit of Hamilton Peak which drops down south-east into Allan’s Basin. From Allan’s Basin, Broken River can be accessed by crossing the ridge that runs off Nervous Knob. Around the ridge further on lookers left of Hamilton Peak is a Zone known as The Remarkables which has a maze of Chutes opening up into small bowls and finishing down within a scatter of Pine trees.

The clubs have a unique culture with members holding a wealth of knowledge of their backcountry.

Ski patrol are happy to offer advice and information on backcountry access. I am excited to get back on my skis this season and continue exploring all that is lying on our back doorstep.

Crystal Valley Crème Amanda Power

An easy to access and popular backcountry run along the Criagieburn Range is Crystal Valley.

Nestled alongside Porters, it has been earmarked for development with gondola access in the future. Until

P: John O’Malley. Amanda Power & Dallis Waters

Crystal Valley holds snow well and often looks

loaded from the Highway. then the large basin offers endless untracked runs down a variety of aspects. Crystal Valley holds snow well and often looks loaded from the Highway.

Access into Crystal Valley is via a 20 minute hike up to Allison Peak from the top of McNulty’s Basin at Porters. From Allison Peak you get a good view of the selection of terrain and can choose to drop straight in or hike further along the ridge. On a good snow year you can ski right down to the bottom chain fitting area on the Porters access road, a whopping 1000 vertical meters. But generally the snow is not that low and you typically need to hike out along a stream to the Porters Alpine Lodge.

On a leaner year you can still get a few turns in before ducking back in to Bluff Face or just deal with a longer walk out to Porters Alpine Lodge. If you are facing a longer walk, pack some sneakers and a sun hat. It’s a good idea to drop a vehicle at Porters Alpine Lodge before heading up to do the run but you can sometimes hitch a ride back up to the ski area depending on the time of day, and possibly get in another lap or two.

Mingha Valley Arthurs Pass

Margot Bohanon

Situated in the backcountry of Temple Basin in Arthurs Pass National Park the Mingha Valley overlooks Goat Pass and the Deception River.

There is an approximate one hour hike from the car park to the Temple Basin Lodge – this is the moat around the castle. From the lodge ride Temple Tow and a 5 minute walk delivers you to Downhill Basin.

From the top of Downhill tow it is as short hike to Temple Col which sits just under 1800m.

85.

From Temple Col it’s game on with lots of options. You can head north along the ridge towards Mt Temple, head South on a gnarly rocky ridge climb towards Upper Bills Basin and onto Mt Blimit or head straight down. There are steeps, chutes, natural wind lips and rollovers of gentle direct fall lines from the col.

As the Mingha is east facing it gets loaded from the predominant westerly quarter. This often means the Mingha delivers good powder unaffected by wind and sun. It is easily accessed and a great place to do laps down to 1600m. The terrain offers good safe travel routes and spotting from the col and ski out. There is an awesome spot at the bottom to eat your packed lunch before heading up for another run.

Roadside Touring in the Lindis Pass Miek Deuninck

The ski roadie has much to recommend it. There are the obvious things, like spending time in a confined space with the smell of your mate’s wet gear, and then there are the more subtle pleasures like the possibility of a roadside powder stop.

A prime location for roadside pow is Lindis Pass.

P: Ross Mackay. Snowboarder Andy Mackay. Lindis Pass

Even driving through there in summer, the terrain potential is obvious. The highest point of the road lies at around 950m, so you need to be there fairly soon after a low snowfall.

P: Ross Mackay. Skier John Webb. Lindis Pass

Here’s one suggestion should you find yourself waking up on the Lindis after an ill-fated attempt to get to Treble Cone for the pow you could see dumping out of the night sky. There’s a look-out with parking at the highest point of the pass; you’ll see a defined ridge, 1.5 to 2 hours of honest effort should see you up to the 1400m summit above the road. From here you’ve got a few descent options: the main bowl is Southeast facing, and there are some gullies with aspects ranging from Northeast to South.

the terrain potential is

obvious.

Ben Savill & Margot. Temple Basin, Mingha

This mission is best attempted after a Westerly (but be mindful of loading), and best avoided after a scouring Southerly. As with all backcountry missions, make sure you carefully assess the terrain and conditions before setting off: check the conditions at www.avalanche.net.nz for the Ohau and Southern Lakes regions.

86.

Ski Touring the Upper Tasman Glacier Words and images by

Anna Keeling

Skiing at the head of the Tasman Glacier is like a dream. I’ve ski toured many places but the Tasman, and it’s sister glacier the Murchison, have to be favourites.True, I am all sentimental from a long time overseas, but I love Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park; the village, the small friendly airport and the remarkable flight into the glaciers. Hell, I’m even ok with walking down the endless rocky moraine, with the right crew.

waterfalls, pour over the divide on fine days, to reveal a window to the west coast. Magic.

An environment like this has risks and challenges.

Crevasses lie hidden in the glacier and although falls are fairly infrequent, ski tourers always wear climbing harnesses and carry ropes. Avalanche hazard must be recognized and mitigated. Ski runs can be 5-10 km long with vertical drops of 1000 metres. A fair amount of psyche is necessary to make the return climb (the reward having fabulous buttocks). Much of the terrain on the glaciers is wide open - the Tasman itself is a blue run but steeps abound for those with the fitness and ability to access them. Depending on conditions, it’s possible to ski off peaks on the Main Divide or the easier Hochstetter Dome (2810m), and various other peaks or knobs.

Classic tours include skiing “Canyonlands”, an area of

Millions of shades of blue

Many come to explore the Tasman on Ski the Tasman trips - a guided day journey including two 8-10km long ski runs, accessed by ski plane or helicopter.

Ski the Tasman is an amazing trip but there is way more terrain to be skied if you have weather, time and skills (or a guide). Three Department of Conservation huts provide a base, Kleman, Tasman Saddle and Muchison huts.

Kelman hut sits at 2500 metres, just above the Tasman saddle which divides the Tasman and Murchison glaciers. Tasman Saddle hut is about a kilometre away, across the glacier. With a cup of tea and gingernut biscuit, you can relax in the sun on the exposed Kelman balcony and watch ski tourers on nearby peaks, skiing mellow glacier runs, or slogging back up the Murchison headwall. Helicopters and ski planes provide exciting spectating as pilots land their craft on the glacier below. Jungle mists, like a steamy

shimmer on the faces of ice towers as you ski beneath

glacial seracs or ice blocks, caused by a corner in the glacier and the rocky terrain beneath the ice dropping away. Millions of shades of blue shimmer on the faces of ice towers as you ski beneath. Seemingly tiny from above, skiing through these ice canyons is incredibly surprising. There are caves, arches and dead-end ice canyons. The way forward looks improbable when suddenly the canyon opens to a final pitch of sweet pow to the main glacier.

Swooping down the Tasman, Aoraki/Mt Cook lies dead ahead and steep glaciers tumble on either side from New Zealand’s highest topography. Glaciers are noisy; ice avalanches rumble and unseen rocks cascade into icy cracks. The Murchison side is more secret. The glacier is narrower and is skied via

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.

87.

the steep and committing Murchison Headwall off the Tasman Saddle. Fewer ski planes land on the Murchison and its hut is a tiny eight bunker. There are mysterious remote runs on glaciers, like Joie de Vivre and unnamed, runs into the rugged wilderness of the West Coast’s upper Whataroa. Invisible from above, or involving rocky entrances, these runs open to superb views into the tiger country of the West Coast upper reaches. Access to Murchison Hut is also trickier as the glacier has down-wasted, leaving the hut perched on a terrace 150 metres above the main ice. Some of my top days ski touring have been in the Murchison - skinning to Starvation Saddle, skiing south facing powder into the hidden Mannering Glacier then skinning to the top of Mt Cooper (2362m), lunching on the summit and skiing fine 37-degree corn down north-facing slopes.

As you roam, spare a thought for pioneering ski plane pilots who have made the mountains so accessible.

Sir Harry Wigley’s schoolboy aspirations led to a life of flying adventure. After World War 2, the RNZAF pilot began to explore the possibility of landing on the South Island’s extensive snowfields. A keen outdoorsman and skier, Wigley pioneered the use of

retractable skis for snow landings. An airfield take-off would require wheels while a glacier landing required

skis; Wigley and his colleagues spent hundreds of hours devising ways to attach skis to the undercarriages of Auster aircraft. In his book Ski Plane Adventure, Wigley describes his first landing on the Tasman Glacier: “The heels of the skis brushed the snow very gently and the Auster settled down as tactfully as a maiden into a feather bed, with no vibration, noise or bouncing.” Interesting imagery yes, but what a remarkable, clever man and gosh he’s saved us some time and energy. Accessing the Upper Tasman on foot and ski is a 30 kilometre/1500 metre vertical mission over loose, rocky terrain; reaching first the blue glacier ice, then further to permanent snow. By plane or heli it is an exciting and scenic ride of half an hour. Every trip is a trip of a lifetime.

Useful Resources NZ professional mountain guides: www.nzmga.org.nz Ski the Tasman and flights: www.skiplanes.co.nz Tekapo Helicopters: www.tekapohelicopters.co.nz Alpine Guides: www.skithetasman.co.nz

88.

Winter Injuries and Injury Prevention Riccarton Clinic

Regrettably, some trips to the ski fields end with a trip to the doctors or after hours medical center.

Dr Alistair Blomley, Medical Director at Riccarton Clinic says, “Working in a clinic with x-ray facilities, which is on the way home for many people as they return from their day on the slopes, I get to see lots of snow sport-related injuries.”

avoiding injury in the first

place makes a lot of sense

your time on the slopes too. We are fortunate in NZ to have ACC which provides earnings related compensation. They will pay 80% of your wage after the first week of incapacity; however, this often makes things pretty tight if your budget was already a stretch and if you are self-employed it can be a disaster!

Dr Blomley warns that, “a more significant fracture can lead to surgery, prolonged rehabilitation, more time off work, and then possible long term joint stiffness and a risk of early arthritis.” Doom and gloom from a single moment where it all goes pear-shaped. So, the key to maximizing time on the slopes and avoiding injury is to do everything you can to avoid that accident.

Dr Blomley spends much of his normal working day advising people on how to reduce risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other illness, by following healthy lifestyle advice. Many of the same messages can be extended to injury prevention, with a few additions specific for winter sports.

P: Mark Bridgwater. Mt Olympus

Wrist injuries are the most common thing seen over the winter months as a consequence of a fall when skiing or riding. It’s instinctive to put your hand out on falling. This transmits significant force through the wrist joint. Dr Blomley says, “We call this a FOOSH injury (Fall Onto an Out-Stretched Hand) and often damages a wrist bone called the Scaphoid or the bottom end of one of the two forearm bones – usually the Radius. Both injuries are painful and will consume a lot of your precious time!”

An adult with a fractured Scaphoid or Radius may ‘just’ need a cast, this could still be for up to eight weeks. This may mean you need alternate duties at work for this time, or if you have a physical occupation you may not be able to work at all. It almost goes without saying that it will seriously limit

P: Mark Bridgwater. Temple Basin

Fit for purpose?

Don’t be a couch potato all summer, and then expect to be able to rip up the slopes. Spend some time getting fit for the snow season. Optimize your weight – this can seriously save your knees! Stop smoking. Drink in moderation. Too wet or cold to go outside and exercise? Too expensive to go the gym? These are EXCUSES. There is ALWAYS something you can do. Bodyweight exercises engage multiple muscle groups, like skiing, and strengthen the core too – check YouTube for examples. Get the legs strong with some hill walking, running or cycling.

Equipment.

Having modern and well fitting equipment is essential. Ideally get your own – fitted by a pro.

If this is not an option, then rental equipment is now of a very high standard and will be adjusted correctly for your height and weight. Unless you really know what you are doing, be cautious about borrowing gear or buying second hand. A bargain pair of skis could turn out to be costly if they are responsible for a broken leg!

surprising how busy the icy slopes can be on a freezing cold and windy day early in the season, and how quiet they can be on a sunny day toward the end of the season. Being collected by an out-of-control snowboarder or skier hurts as much as a self-inflicted tumble and is more likely on a busy day.

89.

Control.

Ski and ride within your abilities. Be aware of your surroundings. Obey the rules! This not only applies to on the ski field, but also on the access road on the way up. Don’t drive like a muppet.

Tunes.

Nice to have some tunes on the go but save them for the lift queue and the lift. You’ll ski and ride better if you can focus on your technique and hear what is going on around you.

P: Mark Bridgwater. Andy Burde. Mt Olympus

Helmets really are a no brainer. Just get one and WEAR IT. There is evidence that the use of wrist guards when snowboarding can reduce the risk of wrist fracture in a fall and many ski fields insist on it when hiring equipment. Don’t forget to get some sunscreen on and use a decent pair of sunnies or goggles, depending on the day. It is easy to burn when on snow, at altitude, on a nice clear winter day.

Food, fluid, and fatigue.

Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol on the slopes.

Ensure you eat before you leave home and take regular breaks during the day. Be wary of going for that ‘just one more’ run. It is at the end of the day, often on tired legs and in flat light, that many injuries occur.

Dr Blomley says, “When you consider the cost of a season pass and equipment, plus the potential costs of time off work if injured, then avoiding injury in the first place makes a lot of sense!”

Lessons.

You are never too good, or too old, to benefit from a lesson. Good technique will use your main muscle groups and avoid overusing those minor muscle groups that quickly tire and remain sore for days.

Be picky.

Try to contain your enthusiasm. If conditions are marginal, then wait for them to improve. It is

P: Mark Bridgwater. Skier Sam Lee. Temple Basin

P: Sprinifexnz.com. Skier Taichiro Naka. Broken River

P: Joe Harrison. Skier Hamish Berkett. Fox Peak

P: Shane Orchard. Black Diamond Big Mtn CHILL Series. Temple Basin

P: Riley Bathurst. Skier Ollie Hunt. Mt Cheeseman Slackcountry

92.

On the World Tour Neil Williman

the get-ups that you see

people rocking on the hill and

Neil grew up in Blenheim and started skiing from a young age.

While studying at Canterbury University, Neil shared his passion for skiing through the University Ski Club and competing in events such as the Big Mountain CHILL Series, which he won in 2009. Neil has successfully completed two Freeride World Tours, and continually sings praises for New Zealand’s roots in the sport.

Age: 28 Residence: NZ/Europe Ski Quiver: Fischer Big Stix range Favourite ski film from the 80s or 90s? Hot Dog Favourite ski area in NZ? Temple Basin Favourite ski area in Europe? Axamer Lizum Sponsors: Fischer, Surfanic, Dr Zipe, Planks, Komperdell, GoPro, Pieps How did you go in the FWT this season?

Not that well in the end, skied safe and finished midpack in the first 2 competitions (Courmayeur and Chamonix) then went for it and crashed in the next two (Fieberunn/Kappl and Snowbird). Revelstoke would’ve been a chance at redemption for me but it got cancelled due to avalanche danger, which was a bit of an anti-climax.

What was your highlight moment?

Finishing 10th in Chamonix I guess, even though I was unwell and carrying an injury. I’ve done 2 seasons in Chamonix and met my girlfriend there so it’s a pretty special place for me.

How tough is the competition?

So tough, and getting tougher every year. Everyone on it is so talented and pushing it to the limit in every way, so it’s tough to find a balance between lines that will do well and lines that you know you can land.

Do kiwis fly in this competition environment, both on the ground and in competition?

Yeah we’re kind of the intermediates between the Europeans and the Americans, I think we bring a good attitude and that’s a big part of why we are usually over-represented on the FWT for how small we are.

When did you realise the Freeride World Tour was what you wanted?

It just kind of happened really, I started doing well in competitions while I was living in Cham and once I got some good results I wanted to see how far I could take it.

in the bars have made me laugh more than once.

P: Tom Platts

As a kid where and when did you start skiing?

Mt Robert (the now-closed club field next to Rainbow), as soon as I was old enough to get taken out of the backpack.

Do you remember the day?

Na I was too young, but I have some pretty early memories of having to wait at the bottom of the rope tow for an adult to come and get on so I could reach the rope.

Growing up who was your idol(s) in the sport ?

Internationally it would have to be Seth Morrison, and the guys from movies Focused and Session 1242, but I always looked up a lot to the guys that got freeride going in NZ, like Sam Hazeldine, Hamish Acland, Geoff Small, Todd Windle and Noddy Gowans. I remember in the early 2000’s when I saw Nick Mills shredding the Saddle T-bar at Treble Cone on a pair of fat (at the time) skis too, it was the first time I had seen someone ski like that with my own eyes and it really changed my perspective on skiing and how I wanted to ski. I’ve got to meet and know most of them as I’ve grown up, but I guess I never told them I had their pictures on my wall as a kid, I think they’re still there in my parent’s house!

Being on the FWT with Charlie and Smoothy was a pretty amazing experience too, I hope that it helps show the upcoming generation of kiwi freeriders that anything is possible, whether you come from a skiracing resort or a club field.

Canterbury has your ski lines all over it, what’s special about the terrain at the local ski areas?

It’s pretty difficult to describe to someone that hasn’t experienced it actually. I tried pretty hard to

explain it to Tove before she came here (my girlfriend, who is from Sweden) but she said she didn’t really understand untill she arrived. The club fields have a strong community feel, and concentrate on making sure the necessary things happen for everyone to enjoy being in the mountains without any of the unnecessary touristy crap that often comes along with it. I feel like they embody my favourite parts of New Zealand culture in a way that anyone can share and enjoy. Sometimes we have to make the most of the snow conditions, but the terrain helps with that a lot, and I really believe that the combination of conditions helps shape the positive attitude of the kiwi freeskiers, something we have a reputation for.

Where are you based?

As I write this I’m in Austria and I’ll be here until the end of the 2014 winter/spring. I’m applying for engineering jobs in Sweden, the UK and NZ at the moment, so hopefully I’ll be back for a shred this Southern Hemisphere winter! I haven’t got to spend as much time at the clubbies since I finished my Natural Resource Engineering degree at Canterbury so it would be great to come back and put the degree to work in Christchurch while being close to the mountains too.

What local ski area do you frequent. Are there any mono skiers there? One piece suits? Big tashes, and huge mugs of beer?

I’ve been based in Innsbruck which I guess I would describe in NZ terms like this- imagine you put Dunedin in the middle of a big valley in the Southern Alps and then built gondolas everywhere. It’s pretty mind blowing! The ski culture here is pretty focused on racing so it’s not too difficult to find good snow, and yep the get-ups that you see people rocking on the hill and in the bars have made me laugh more than once.

When will we see you back in NZ? Hopefully this season, I really miss the Southern Alps and want to spend more time in the backcountry and Aoraki /Mt Cook National Park!

If you were to share your best kept lessons of getting to the FWT, what would they be?

Well for me the lessons about comps and about life are pretty distinctly different, so I’ll separate them here…

Comp lessons: It’s fine to ask for advice, but always back yourself to pick the line that is right for you. Don’t change it based on what you think others will do, just pick something that you’re at least 90% sure you can stomp and have fun doing it. Then when you’re skiing for yourself work on making that ‘90% line’ better and

93.

better. Scoping a face at your local resort from the bottom and then hiking and skiing it without stopping is good practice, doing it with your buddies and filming each other is even better.

Life/travel lessons: Make the most of the places that you get to go for comps! It might be the only time you get to go there. Always go skiing after the competition, especially if it’s a place you haven’t been before, you almost always end P: Mickey Troja. Silvaplana Line up with a sweet crew, usually meet new people too, and make the memories that will last the longest. Explore, enjoy and experience everywhere you’re taken, because life on the road is a privileged journey that you couldn’t and shouldn’t know the duration or destination of. It’s far too important to be taken seriously.

Any last requests!

Just a big fat shout out to all the people that have believed in me and supported me on the long, lovely and incredibly unlikely road that has lead me to my dreams coming true- friends, family and sponsors, much love to you all. And if there is one thing that you as a reader take away from this article then I want it to be self belief that anything is possible. For me it was straight skis and rear entry boots on a rope tow that I loved every minute of walking to, finishing up with spending 2 years competing against 30 of the best big mountain skiers in the world. A goal and imagination is all you need really, and even if you don’t make it to where you thought you were going just make sure you have a good time getting there. www.neilwilliman.com facebook: neilwillimanskiinghuman www.freerideworldtour.com

Useful Resources

P: Tom Platts. Pitzal Glacier

94.

Good Old Days

by Amanda Power In the grand scheme of things, skiing is a relatively modern sport. Ski technology has changed dramatically over the lifetime of the sport and some of the first ski bums are still around to tell their stories.

These few oldies are still skiing strong in their 70s and 80s, and remember what skiing was like in the ‘good old days’.

Alain Bassin Alain grew up around Geneva in Switzerland and learnt to ski in the 1940’s when he was too young to remember, around 5 or 6. He lived in a medieval styled village in Coppet which had a slope that he and his friends started to ski on. He didn’t know how to turn or stop so would just straight-line

I liked stopping work, but I don’t like stopping skiing

across the main road at the bottom of the slope onto a covered area of a petrol station which was bare of snow, grinding him to a halt.

Alain remembers there being a bit of rivalry on the slope with the sledders. The skiers would side step up the slope to pack down the fresh snow and the sledders would cut across the ‘groomed’ slope making ruts. This frustrated the skiers because they would catch their skis and crash, and crashing meant getting wet and cold, and possibly injured.

When Alain was a bit older he ventured further up the alps to a ski resort, but the lifts were pretty basic – much like a rope tow, but instead of just one person going up at a time they would pile 7 or 8 onto a sled and go up in a group. “There were no groomers back then” recalls Alain and the gear exceptionally basic so skiing in fresh powder was a huge challenge.

However the slopes were steep so you couldn’t just straight-line. They had to learn to turn and stop which resulted in a lot of carnage including a broken leg for Alain’s brother.

There were no gortex gloves, no polypro, no ski pants or jacket. Alain’s mother made him ‘golfs’, named after the pants that golfer’s wore at the time, which were baggy pants gathered at the top of the boot. Snow could get in between the ‘golfs’ and their boots which resulted in freezing feet. “Nothing was waterproof and we got sopping wet down to the bone. You were lucky to even have a pair of woollen mittens”.

There also wasn’t a lot of money around so it was a matter of mustering up whatever gear you could find.

“Those that had leather boots were the lucky ones” Alain remembers. Alain’s boots had wooden soles which were stiff solid.

Because of the lack of lift access Alain said that they spent most of the time skiing up the mountain, telemark style and would often only get one run in a day. “We skied proper telemark skiing, what is done now is a variation” and Alain describes only having one pole which had a large solid wooden basket. Skis were used mainly for walking with the use of the pole mainly for balance, a bit like a walking stick. Downhill, the pole was then used with both hands, for balance again, on the inside of the turn and then shifted over for the next turn, which also had sort of a braking effect. Ski turning was done by leaning forward so that the tip of one ski almost hooked on to the front of the other binding, forcing a turn.

For all the difficulties with the gear Alain loved skiing so when he was about 10 he started doing odd jobs around the village so he could buy better gear. With the ‘advancement’ of bindings they were able to do stem christie, a wedge turn. When skiers finally learnt

Clavadeleralp, Davos, 1979.

to parallel they called it ‘christies’, without the stem.

In 1967 Alain began instructing. He had 2 instructor ‘licenses’ – a State license (a regional license) and a Ski Federation license (a license allowing you to instruct at any ski field instructing under the Ski Federation). During this period in Switzerland ski schools were run by the ski instructors associations or the ski federation, under the jurisdiction of the Department of Police and Justice. “If you didn’t have a license you got fined” Alain explains. It wasn’t until the 1970’s that ski instructing became deregulated making it easier for instructors to instruct in other areas and countries and start to work back to back winters.

Alain is also a keen sailor and in 1974 he set off on a round-the-world voyage. By the time he made it to

New Zealand, Alain was cash strapped so stayed on in the country to earn some money. This is when he met his wife whom he took with him on the rest of his voyage. They returned to Switzerland for another 12 years where he returned to ski instructing until he had 3 kids and had to get a ‘real job’. In 1992 Alain and his family returned to New Zealand and in 1993 he began instructing at Mt Robert with the Nelson Ski Club.

Alain is turning 70 this year and is now a loyal CHILL pass holder, skiing in the Craigieburns, Temple Basin and in Tekapo. “I liked stopping work, but I don’t like stopping skiing”, a statement I’m sure we can all agree holds great substance.

Paul Bush

Paul is a Cantabrian, born and bred. After growing up on a farm in Cheviot he went to England for University.

Paul’s parents had skied in Switzerland during their honeymoon so when Paul was 19, in the early 1950’s, he and a friend headed to Andermatt on a ski trip. “It took me 1 week to learn how to stand up” recalls Paul with a chuckle. Like Alain, the ski equipment in those days was pretty primitive and the snow ungroomed so learning to ski was difficult work.

It took me 1 week to

learn how to stand up When Paul returned to New Zealand he started skiing at Mt Cheeseman. He also did an annual trip down to Queenstown with his mates. Paul remembers not being able to drive all the way to Coronet Peak so they would grab on to the back of the Coronet Peak bus as it passed them to get a free ride.

95.

The club was very much a farming community and many of the local farmers kids learnt to ski there.

Paul was Secretary for the club for 6 years but was also very active in other clubs, such as Temple Basin, helping build huts in the summer and skiing in the winter. All the materials were carried on their backs and Paul recalls one of his most exciting, and scariest moments in the mountains. He was with a group helping to bring materials up to Temple Basin for the construction of a hut. At the bottom of the field there was a list of tasks and Paul’s job was to carry 2 sheets of pinex (8x4ft) on his back. There was not a lot of wind at the bottom but by the time Paul got to the bluffs a Nor’ West began gusting and Paul thought “I’m on my way to Chile”. He had to hold onto snow tussocks to stop himself from being blown into the gullies. The pinex ended up snapping in two and Paul felt lucky to be alive. “The pinex wouldn’t have been any good anyway because the hut got blown down in the end” Paul surmises.

Paul is 85 years old and still skiing strong. He races at the masters annually at Mt Hutt, and after asking him how he gets on, he states “well I win, I’m the oldest. The next oldest is 78. I just try and get a good time and stay standing up”. Paul has two daughters and two sons, both girls Virginia and Bridget are passionate skiers living in the Southern Lakes District.

Virginia is the Physio for the New Zealand Winter Olympic Team and the American World Cup team when they train in NZ, and has recently returned from the Sochi Olympics. Bridget was a heliski guide here and in Colorado. Paul now spends most of his time skiing at Mt Hutt, “but anywhere the snow is good” he states.

Paul was instrumental in founding Amuri, known as Hanmer Springs Ski Area, and is the ski club’s current Patron. Back in 1956 a group of North Canterbury farmers decided to look for a local ski area. Hugh Grigg and a team looked at the Mt Terako area and decided access would be too difficult. Jock Montgomery rang Paul and suggested they look at Mt St Patrick on St James Station which with Jim Stevenson's permission (he was club Patron for many years) they did , and liked the look of it. The following year 20 locals went up and decided to form the Amuri Ski Club.

It only took the club one year to raise enough money to fund the project, and build a day lodge, tow shed and rope tow, but unfortunately the following winter was fickle and there was not enough snow for the club ski. It wasn’t until 1959 that the club got their first turns in at Amuri. In contrast Paul recalls a huge snow season where the club had to retrieve the portable rope tow and set it up at Jack’s Pass until the road could be opened.

Fox Glacier Ice Climbing Ski Touring

96.

Good Old Days June Cloudesley June, known for her fabulously stunning lippy, has been skiing since she was 12, for the last 61 years. Junes’ claim to fame has to be the 60, yes 60, back to back winters she has under her belt, putting every other ski bum I know to shame.

June started skiing at Mt Cheeseman in 1952 and was a dedicated school holiday ski-weeker for years.

“We would never go anywhere else” June explains.

Every August holidays 40 kids would attend the ‘junior parties’, with 6 parent supervisors. It was the only time that school children were allowed to stay or ski on the field. Mt Cheeseman was exclusive to adults only until June’s father, Frank Matthews, a crucial club member, threated to leave the club. The club soon changed its policy regarding children.

June remembers her first ski instructor Cecilia O’Rorke, an English lady who was a member of the Ski Club of Great Britain. Cecilia taught June how to ski, “it took me 2 weeks before I could even get on the tow” June recalls. Again the gear was cumbersome (June in ‘bulldog’ boots) and the snow ungroomed.

“To make the run skiable we would pack the snow down twice then side slip it” recalls June.

Cecilia skied in the war and rather than just teaching the kids how to ski she treated the ski weeks like a winter camp. She would teach snow safety and in the evenings Cecelia would roll out some newsprint and draw different structures of snowflakes to teach the kids about snow pack and avalanche safety. “She was a matron and had mountain skills she learnt from mountaineering in Europe” June explains. Cecilia was a well-respected woman.

There were no telephones, so the Willis boys would bring up pigeons to pass on urgent messages. June clearly remembers a large snow fall which ripped off the roof. The pigeons were sent off immediately, flying to Christchurch and replacement iron arrived by Land Rover that same day.

When June started nursing, her passion for skiing continued. Even after a night shift nursing June would still make it up to Cheeseman for a days skiing. She liked to ski with the boys, which meant keeping up with the boys, so June would spend her summers at the YMCA taking ‘keep fit’ classes long before the days of gyms.

We cleaned our teeth with snow so we had clean breath, and then played ‘spin-the-bottle’, hoping to kiss a boy.

June has also done a huge amount of ski racing in her time. She raced throughout the 1960s winning a decent swag of medals in the Nationals. She recalls the first ever sponsored ski race in 1966, the Bata Cup, “where you actually got a prize”. June came first in the Women’s section and won a pair of ski boots from Oscar Coburger. She was in the Canterbury team and attended the annual ‘Cantagos’, a team competition against Otago held in Ohau, and also represented the New Zealand racing team which went to the Nationals in Thredbo, Australia.

It was in the early 1960s that June started clocking up her back to back winters visiting Europe in our summer. In 1968 she married Roger Cloudesley, who came in very handy for carrying her extra pairs of skis at the ski races. Roger’s family history is a story in itself as his great-great-grandfather, WJ Cloudesley, owned several establishments along the Cobb & Co. route from Christchurch to the West Coast from the 1870s. And in 1890 Mt Cloudesley in the Craigieburn Range was named after him.

After a days skiing the kids would be expected to relay food up from Texas Flat, so by the end of the day they were exhausted. There was no running water or bath, they would have to melt snow to wash the dishes and “by the end of washing the dishes the dishwater looked more like soup.” There was only one long drop with an orange curtain as a door which required frequent digging-out before use.

What’s more it was situated proudly at the bottom of the learners slope for all to see. “We cleaned our teeth with snow so we had clean breath, and then played ‘spin-the-bottle’, hoping to kiss a boy”. It was also mandatory to keep you boots beside

Mt Hutt, Masters Race 2013 your bunk in case of a fire.

Roger and June have two children, Annabelle and Thomas who are both keen skiers. In 1995 June joined the Masters Ski Racing Circuit which was held annually at Rainbow, Mt Hutt, Coronet Peak, Cardrona and Treble Cone, again winning many medals.

At 73, June is still skiing strong, when you’re up at Porters this season, you might see her and her bright lippy cruising stylishly down the slopes.

WANT TO CHILL OUT NEXT SUMMER?

www.wintersportscompany.com Qualify to be a professional with The Winter Sports Company.

International ski and snowboard instructor training in Canada. Courses 3 to 18 weeks.

Best Canadian resorts Miles of uncrowded slopes, ski in ski out, powder, steeps, deeps and bumps.

Certify and travel the world.

NEW Ski Patrol Course. Train to be a member of a mountain’s emergency response team.

Office Phone ++ Email Facebook Address

sk w ier a s pr nt an of ed d es t sn sio o b o na e wb l in tra oa st ine rd ru d er ct a s or s s

• • • • • •

44 1736 763402 info@wintersportscompany.com facebook.com/winter.sportscompany The Winter Sports Company Pooh Corner Chy An Dour Road Praa Sands Cornwall UK TR20 9SY

98.

Winner Lifestyle

Photo Comp Capture the essence of CHILL in the mountains and WIN. The 2013 winners get a $50 CHILL Pass Voucher and CHILL T-shirt. To enter this season email hq@chillout.co.nz.

2013 winners. Lifestyle: Phoebe McMillan. Mtn / Outdoor: Tyler Roberts.

Skier: Ray Button.

Winner Ski

Winner Mtn

CONGRATLATIONS Tyler Roberts From Mt Cheeseman looking to the east

CONGRATLATIONS Ray Button Pioneer Pass Backdrop Tasman Glacier

CONGRATLATIONS Phoebe McMillan Doing some snowga on the summit of Cockayne

99.

Jimmy Buckle_Nothing beats the stoke of a powder day

Andy Wilson loving the view from above

Amira Mikhail_Our Crew enjoyin a bluebird day at Dobson

Olly Parnham_Tomo Jason Dean and Andrew Hiking up Temple Basin

Sue Cumberworth_Kiri the Cheeseman Kea

Ray Button_Top Basin, Hut Creek

100.

Comp Winners Winner CHILL Lib Name:

CON GRA TLA EMILY TION Chee S HICKS rs fo r thi s aw !

CHI esom LL L e IB

Emily Hicks

This winter I had an awesome day at Broken River . The snow was velvetty,

and I was looking colourful in my extra warm green pants, blue helmet, and a worn leather glove on my right hand. I went with my sister Mo, who had been sliding since 83'.

Our first move was the inclinator, then on to the lifts.

We called the lift “toey” You stand at the bottom, and a rope takes you swiftly up the mountain. I survived this lift, but Mo was legendary!

At the top of the mountain, robot warned us about wind. No worries. We headed for the ridge and traversed. Mo skiied to the bottom in about a 'tick' like a whippet in a Kennel, and I laughed. We made it to the bottom, and we were

both thoroughly chuffed. We had a fabulous time, but next time I’m definitely wearing my strippey scarf and doing more powder-eights!

Winner Creatures of the Snow

I have had a bit of down time on the weekends lately due to a few injuries and managed to create what I call the ‘Kenji Creatures Heaven’. It draws on all the awesome experiences we have had up on the CHILL mountains this year and years past. From Broken River boarder X, Shot Shack at Roundhill, middle basin chutes at Craigieburn and all the cliffs we always try to huck ourselves off.

S CONGRATLATION Joel Nichol

101.

Honorable mentions just Doodling isn't Snowed in? you’re creative while for kids. Get weather window. a waiting for that llout.co.nz) ces Send us (hq@chi of your masterpie a copy or photo for you in the draw and we’ll put to CHILL Pass!

2014 Licence

Custom made.

New Zealand made.

KINGSWOOD.

WWW.KINGSWOODKIS.COM

New topsheets out now.

Emma Bedford

Kim Swarbrick

Travis Peggs

Sam Mathews

Swayze Parker

Elmo Kirkland

2014

102.

Season Collection Day

Date

Mountain

Weather

Snow

CHILL factor

Comments

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

WIN! A return Interislander ferry pass for 2 adults + vehicle departing from Welllington

Up for Gr abs!

Email hq@chillout.co.nz with ideal South Island winter destination.

Drawn 15 June.

Need more days? Email hq@chillout.co.nz WIN! Mighty Campervan, sleeps 2 People, 5 day hire returing same branch, plus 2x 3 day 2014 CHILL Passes.

Email hq@chillout.co.nz with your top 2014 mountains rides. Campervan and passes can be upgraded. Drawn 15 June.

Dou 103. to h ble the q@ Lib! c S the hillo end u s dra ut.c w t o.n a story ow z g in!! o i n !

Name: One cold winter morning my alarm went off at...

The snow report for...

That was the _________day of my season, and...

Name: On ______________ I had a _________________time at ______________. There (date/day)

(adjective)

(location)

was_________________everywhere and I was feeling _________________________. (noun)

(adjective)

I wore my _______________________________ and_________________________. (noun) (noun) Me and my ____________________________________________________together.

(noun or person and then freestyle) On the way______________________________________________________________ (freestyle) _______________________________________________________________________.

(keep going, spice it up) Once we got to the top of the mountain we________________like_________________.

(verb) (adjective or animal) It was_____________________________and_____________________________. (adjective) (adjective) We kept going until____________________________________________. The best part

(freestyle) was__________________________________________ . (more freestyle)

Email hq@chillout.co.nz one or both of your 2014 CHILL Lib and go in the draw to win !!!

Photo Competition.

Email hq@chillout.co.nz your 2014 snow pics and go in the draw to win !!!

Need more templates?

Email hq@ chillout.co .nz

104.

105.

of the snow Snowed in? Doodling isn't just for kids. Get your creative juices flowing and show us who rules the snow. Send us (hq@chillout.co.nz) a copy or photo of your masterpieces and we’ll put you in the draw for a 2015 Licence to CHILL Pass!

2014 EFFECT prethelmet.com

P: Shane Orchard. Black Diamond Big Mtn CHILL Series, Temple Basin

P: Mark Bridgwater. Jr Big Mtn CHILL Series, Craigieburn

P: Spinifexnz.com. Broken River

P: Ross Mackay, Temple Basin

P: Mark Bridgwater. Jr Big Mtn CHILL Series. Mt Olympus

P: Joe Harrison. Skier Victor Lindstrom. K2 Big Mtn CHILL Series, Craigieburn

108.

Events Calendar 2014

For all mountain events and for further details on those listed, please visit mountain websites and www.chillout.co.nz.

Broken River June 21-22 Opening Weekend (closed during week) June 28 Open all week

Temple Basin Rainbow

Jun 28-29 Opening Weekend

Aug 9-10 CHILL Jnr Big Mtn Camp & Comp Aug 10 Ski Rogaine (tbc) Aug 11-16

Telemark Week Jul 6-12 Jul 5 Supervised Junior week for ages 10–18 Aug 16-17 Opening Day R&R Sport Freeheel Fun Weekend Jul 13-19 Aug 9-10 (weather day) Supervised Junior week for ages 10-18 Aug 17 Summit Batty Giant Slalom & Rainbow Beer Tasting Evening Jul 26-27 Club Champs 80's Weekend Aug 23-24 Aug 13-14 (weather day) Club Champs Aug 9-10 Harcourts Secondary School Champs Fire + Ice Party Aug 30 Aug 23-24 Quicksilver/ Skullcandy Ridercross Aug 23-24 RAINBOW*ATOMIC*MASTERS and Whitedot Endurance Race 10th Anniversary Celebrations Aug 30-Sept 5 Sept 4-7 Mid Term Break weekend

Sept 12-14 SplitFest

Sept 10-11 (weather day) Harcourts Primary School Champs

Sept 21-27 Supervised Junior Week for ages 10-18

Sept 13 Bowater Motors Group - Rainbow Slush Challenge

Sept 27-28 Future Party - Wind on Time

Mt Lyford Sept 6 Mt Lyford Masters

Hanmer Springs Jun 28 Opening Day Jul 4-21 Family Fun Days - School Holidays

Sept 28 - Oct 4 Supervised Junior week for ages 10-18

Craigieburn Jul 5 Opening Day Aug 1-2 Canterbury Secondary Schools Big Mountain Comp

Aug 21-24 Aug 3 K2 Big Mtn CHILL Series 2014 Family Fun Day Aug 23 Farmers Cup

Aug 30-31 CVSC Club Champs

Aug 24 Amuri Club Champs

Sept 13-14 Out of Towners weekend with ski clinics and hosting

Aug 9 Alpine Curling

Sept 13 King Of The Hill Ski Randonee Sept 20-21 Kids Weekend Sept 27 The Broken River BBQ Bake Off

Porters

Oct 4-5 Beach Daze Jul 26-27 (weather day)

Aug 15-17 Aug 2 Junior Big Mtn CHILL Series Rams Head Downhill

Mt Olympus

Beginners Speedriding Camp

Oct 4-5 Closing weekend and beach party at the bar.

CHILL Gromfest

Aug 3-4 Womens Workshop Weekend Aug 9-10 McNulty's Super-cross Aug 19 Canterbury Secondary Schools Slopestyle Aug 23-24 Winnie Bagoes Community Park Jam Aug 27 Dynastar/Lange Canterbury Independent Primary Schools Championships Sept 7 Speights Summit Retro Gear & Air Sept 14 Becks Porters Oktoberfest

109.

Treble Cone Mt Cheeseman

Jun 26

Opening Day Jun 28 Jul 7 Opening Day! School Holiday Ski Race Camp & Jul 19 - 20 Freeride Camp #1 (First Day) Club Champs.

Jul 12-13 Weather Days: Jul 26-27 Treble Cone Ice Carving Competition Aug 1 Jul 14 Swiss National Day School Holiday Ski Race Camp & Aug 5 Freeride #2 (First Day) Secondary School Championships.

Jul 16 Weather Days: Aug 7, 12 & 14 Treble Cone Cat's Birthday!

Aug 10 Jul 27 All Schools Race Practice Day. Junior Interfield (Treble Cone) Weather Day: Aug 17 Aug 24 Primary & Intermediate School Championships. Weather Day: Aug 31

Aug 4-5 Wanaka Tech Series (SL / GS)

Aug 30-31 TBA: Treble Cone FIS Series SL (Snow Corporate Day Architects & Engineers Sports NZ) Corporate Day Accountants & Lawyers Sept 28 Sept 6-7 (weather day) Official Closing Day Pirate Day Riders & Sliders Sept 13-14 (weather day) (Snow Sports School Programme) ThermaTech Undie 500 Jul 27, Aug 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Fox Peak

FEATURE EVENTS

Aug 2-3 The Great Kiwi Fox Trot Aug 16-17 Club Champs

ThermaTech Undie 500

Jnr Big Mtn CHILL Series

Mt Cheeseman Sept 13-14 (weather day) Strip down to your undies and join the Aug 17 fun negotiating creative challenges Secondary School Champs down the slopes and strutting your stuff at the ‘Undie Parade’. All entries Sept 20 guaranteed a prize!

Dobson Dash Mt Cheeseman State Highway 73 P: +64 3 344 3247 E: marketing@mtcheeseman.co.nz Roundhill www.mtcheeseman.co.nz Aug 2 CHILL Jnr Big Mtn Camp & Comp 80’s Day

Craigieburn Aug 15-17 This year the CHILL Junior Big Mountain Comp is hosted by Craigieburn Valley. This junior event ensures that young New Zealand talent have a stepping stone to open competitions like the K2 Big Mountain CHILL Series. Based on performance CHILL has Wild Cards that invite to compete with the big girls and boys at the K2 Big Mountain CHILL Series. www.chillout.co.nz

Broken River Aug 9-10 Aug 16 Aimed at fostering young big mountain The Skidoo Hill Climb talent, the CHILL Junior Big Mountain Camp teams up budding free riders Aug 23 with experienced big mountain mentors Burtscher Snr Memorial GS for a weekend clinic focusing on tips, Sept 6 techniques and decision making.

Dads’Day at Roundhill The camp finishes with a Big Mtn competition on Sunday.

Sept 13-14 (weather day) www.chillout.co.nz CHILL Gromfest

Craigieburn Aug 21–24 The K2 Big Mountain is the premier event in the CHILL Series Calendar.

Comprised of two days of competition at Craigieburn Valley. 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. www.chillout.co.nz

Mt Dobson

K2 Big Mountain CHILL Series

110.

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 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

1

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

n ew by

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

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.

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.

Sam Masters at Craigieburn. 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.

112.

Contacts - Accommodation, Activities, Essentials

Copthorne Hotel Commodore

+64 3 358 8129

Vintage Peddler Bike Hire

+64 3 365 6530

Riccarton Clinic

+64 3 343 3661

Winnie Bagoes City Centre Ferrymead

+64 3 366 6315 +64 3 376 4900

C4 Coffee

0800 24 263 333

The Bealey Hotel

Kaikoura Kayaks

0800 452 456

Encounter Kaikoura

0800 733 365

Mt Lyford +64 3 315 6446

Hanmer Springs Hanmer Adventure Centre

0800 368 7386

St Arnaud Nelson Lakes Motel

+64 3 521 1887

Sheffield Sheffield Bakery

+64 3 318 3876

Springfield Smylies Accommodation

+64 3 318 4740

Springfield Motel & Lodge

+64 3 318 4018

Springfield Service Centre

+64 3 318 4845

Castle Hill Basin Flock Hill Lodge

+64 3 318 8196

Omarama Top 10 Holiday Park

+64 3 318 9277

Ashburton Hotel Ashburton

0800 330 880

Tinwald Motel

0800 846 9253

Speight’s Ale House

+64 3 308 5980

Braided Rivers Restaurant The Somerset Grocer

Kaikoura

Mt Lyford Lodge

Omarama

Arthur's Pass

Christchurch

0800 662 726

Vehicle Hire New Zealand 4WD Hire

0800 929 333

Pegasus Rental Cars

0800 354 504

+64 3 307 2541

Touch Down Car Rental

0800 736 849

+64 3 307 5899

Mighty Campers

0800 422 267

Methven

Transport

Abisko Lodge & Apartments

+64 3 302 8875

Mt Lyford Express

+ 64 27 629 8083

Big Tree Lodge Methven

+64 3 302 9575

Hanmer Adventure – Ski Area Shuttle

+ 64 3 315 7233

Brinkley Resort

0800 161 223

Smylies Mountain Transport

+64 3 318 4740 snowpool.org.nz

The Blue Pub

+64 3 302 8046

Snowpool

The Brown Pub

+64 3 302 8045

Methven Sports Massage

+64 3 302 8323

Interislander Wgtn - Picton The Chain Man Christchurch

Fairlie Fairlie Top 10 Holiday Park

0800 324 754

Eat Deli & Bar

+64 3 685 6275

0800 802 802 +64 3 366 1528

Tekapo Discover Tekapo Lake Tekapo Scenic Resort

+64 3 680 6942 0800 118 666

Tailor-Made-Tekapo Backpackers

+64 3 680 6700

Earth & Sky Observatory

+64 3 680 6960

Note: 0800 or 0508 numbers are free to call in NZ.

C H I L L S E R I E S 2 014

BROKEN RIVER CAMP/COMP 9-10 AUG CRAIGIEBURN COMP 15-17 AUG

113.

114.

Contacts - Snow Sports

Note: 0800 or 0508 numbers

are free to call in NZ. Local callers, drop the +64 and add 0 before the number.

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

+64 3 319 5028

Hanmer Springs Hanmer Adventure Centre

+ 64 3 315 7233

Christchurch Bivouac Outdoor

+64 3 341 8062

Cheapskates

+64 3 377 2942

Gnomes Alpine Sports

+64 3 342 5757

High Country

+64 3 366 4166

McEwings

+64 3 342 8528

R&R Sport

+64 3 365 2178

Snow & Surf

+64 3 366 7351

Snowride Sports

0800 7669 7433

Stoked Surf, Snow & Style

+64 3 326 7444

The Chain Man

+64 3 366 1528

Darfield Gnomes Alpine Sports

+64 3 318 8433

Methven Alpine Sports

+64 3 302 8084

Big Als Snowsports

+64 3 302 8003

Fairlie Ski Shack

+64 3 685 8088

Wanaka/Queenstown Cheapskates Wanaka R&R Sport Wanaka Queenstown

+64 3 443 5548

+64 3 443 7882 +64 3 409 0409

Backcountry Heli & Cat Access

www.licencetoride.co.nz your local mountain biking guide

Rider: Sonja Hartmann, Queen Charlotte Track.

Photo by Thomas Knecht

Methven Heliski

+64 3 302 8180

Queenstown Snowcats

+64 27 747 3838

Tekapo Helicopters

0800 359 835

Ski the Tasmin

+64 3 435 1834

Guided Tours Alpine Expeditions CHCH

0800 75 44 88

Aspiring Guides Wanaka

+64 3 443 9422

Neon PomPom Windwhistle

+64 3 318 6575

Study and Training NZSSI (New Zealand Snow Safety Institute)

+64 3 377 7788

Tai Poutini Polytechnic Ski Patrol Programme

0800 800 411

Queenstown Resort College

+64 3 409 0500

The Winter Sports Company (UK)

+44 1736 763 402

NZ Mountain Safety Council Canterbury Wanaka

+64 3 313 0507 +64 3 409 2025

Mountain Contacts Awakino

+64 21 0243 9273

Broken River

+64 3 318 8713

Craigieburn Valley

+64 3 318 8711

Fox Peak

+64 3 685 8539

Hanmer Springs

+64 27 434 1806

Mt Cheeseman Office Snowline Lodge

+64 3 344 3247 +64 3 318 8794

Mt Dobson

+64 3 685 8039

Mt Lyford

+64 3 315 6178

Mt Olympus

+64 3 318 5840

Porters

+64 3 318 4002

Rainbow

+64 3 521 1861

Roundhill

+64 21 680 694

Temple Basin

+64 3 377 7788

Treble Cone

+64 3 443 7443

What does it take to be a leader in the Adventure Tourism industry?

We can show you Immerse yourself in the industry with an Adventure Tourism Management Diploma from Queenstown Resort College

TEXT ‘ATM’ to 244

www.queenstownresortcollege.com

*Standard Charges Apply. Provider: txt2get.co.nz

Photographers (clockwise from top left): Jay Beyer, Sandra Salvas, Grant Gunderson

For more information & where to buy go to: www.southernapproach.co.nz or call 0800 335 000