Wintery October Brings Renewed Avalanche Concerns

The New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZAA) has issued a warning for several regions in the country, with 10 out of its 13 regions currently on a 'considerable' avalanche danger level. This warning comes as the Southern Alps have been heavily blanketed with snow this week, making the mountains a potentially dangerous place for those heading into the backcountry.

Despite no avalanche fatality in New Zealand since November 2018, the risk has not gone and avalanches are still possible this spring or summer. In fact, between 1999 and 2018, 40% of avalanche fatalities in NZ occurred between November to April.

Mt Hutt and Two Thumbs sit at 'moderate' danger, with Taranaki on 'low'. However, even if the avalanche forecast is 'low' danger, avalanches are still possible. Travelling safely in avalanche terrain requires three essential components - skills, equipment, and forecast.

The regions on 'considerable' danger level include Queenstown, Aspiring, Ohau, Aoraki/Mt Cook, Craigieburn Range, Nelson Lakes, Arthur's Pass, Wanaka, and Fiordland Tongariro. The NZAA advises that anyone heading into these areas should be mindful of the terrain they're in and how even a small avalanche could be dangerous.

For those looking to improve their skills, the Mountain Safety Council (MSC) encourages those heading into the backcountry to submit public observations of avalanches and snowpack conditions at avalanche.net.nz. The MSC also offers practical courses and videos to help with crampon and ice axe use. A quick refresher can be found by completing a free online course.

The MSC Chief Executive advises that anytime the mountains receive large amounts of fresh snow, there needs to be a grace period, sometimes multiple days, for it to settle. These ratings may change as forecasters monitor the conditions.

To stay updated on the latest avalanche advisory, visit avalanche.net.nz. If you have any other queries, contact Communications Advisor Rebekah Wilson at rebekah.wilson@our website.

Spring is an active time for avalanches, and with ski touring remaining very popular during this period, it's essential to stay vigilant and informed. Remember, safety in the mountains is paramount.

Note: October through to January is mountaineering season, and the Aoraki/Mt Cook forecasting continues all year round. On October 6, 2022, specific information about regions in the New Zealand Alps with "significantly high" avalanche danger is not available in the provided search results.