If you like your backcountry skiing with Instagram-breaking views, look no further than New Zealand. The season here is slightly shorter than elsewhere but don’t be fooled – dramatic vistas, diverse activities, fabulous food and friendly locals mean New Zealand’s ski trips are a match for anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere. And for those looking to explore New Zealand’s endless terrain, heli-skiing is an absolute must. Carve fresh lines through the powder on these longer, more remote runs and you’ll discover what really sets a New Zealand ski experience apart – the exhilarating and utterly intoxicating sense of freedom.
All of our ski adventures are custom-made so let us know if you've got any other ideas up your sleeve, or want some more inspiration...
an Unforgettable Adventure Backcountry Skiing
New Zealand is one of the most stunning areas for backcountry skiing, filled with dramatic landscapes, snow capped peaks and panoramic views around the Southern alps its an adventure of a lifetime. Picture yourself carving down the powder slopes through untouched terrain with the crisp air whistling past you and the backdrop that can only be described as a Transcendent moment in your lifetime.
Why Ski New Zealand’s Backcountry?
Skiing New Zealand’s backcountry is an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers, the vast open wilderness, untouched snow, towering mountains, rugged snow capped peaks and beautiful terrain as far as the eye can see. This is a moment that will last a lifetime, escaping the crowds and skiing some of the most remote locations around the world, challenging yourself along the way in beautiful nature.
Heli Skiing Equipment Required
Warm and waterproof clothing: This includes a ski jacket, pants, base and mid layers, gloves and hat. Ski or snowboard gear: If you choose not to rent, bring your skis/board, boots, goggles and poles. Protective gear: A helmet is necessary Personal items: Bring items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm to protect yourself from the sun and wind. Avalanche Safety Gear: Backcountry environments are where avalanches occur so you need the right safety gear like an Avalanche Transceiver, Shovel and Probe Backpack or Avalanche Airbag: An essential for providing extra safety by helping you stay on the surface during an earthquake Food and water: Pack enough food and water to keep yourself nourished and hydrated throughout the day. First Aid Kit: Bring some band-aids, painkillers, and any other necessary medication. Insurance: Make sure to have travel insurance that covers heli-skiing, as well as emergency evacuation coverage. Camera: Capture the beautiful views and memories.
Your Backcountry Ski Guides
Mabey Ski creates out-of-the-ordinary ski adventures across the globe that push boundaries and challenge the conventional. We practise what we preach and ski all over the world to find those unmarked backcountry huts, mountainside hot springs, and larger-than-life ski guides that become lifelong friends, so that we can create the most authentic and exhilarating ski adventure for you. Our knowledge and creativity come from years of experience in the industry, an unrelenting passion for our work and experiencing our adventures first-hand. From cat-skiing by the ocean and mountain top wine tasting, to heli-skiing first descents and catching rainbow trout for dinner, we’re on a never-ending journey to build deeper connections with a place and its people.
Backcountry Beautiful Scenery
Skiing the backcountry in New Zealand you’ll come across some of the most dramatic, inspiring landscape and scenery in the world. Away from the crowds exploring unspoilt powder snow which is inaccessible by foot creating a sense of unknown awe and wonder which is difficult to find elsewhere. When ski touring around the backcountry of New Zealand you’ll be experiencing some of the world's most beautiful glaciers, alpine lakes, snow-capped mountains and rugged valleys which tell an all inspiring story for New Zealand's raw natural beauty and unique geology making it the ideal destination for backcountry skiing.
New Zealand's Local Culture
New Zealand's unique blend of Maori traditions and modern Western culture offers a diverse range of experiences immersing you in the local culture, from the booming local art culture in Wanaka to Queenstown's blend of glowing spirit and nightlife and a diverse range of international cuisine. After your day of adventure skiing, wind down and embrace the local culture, fully immersing yourself in the New Zealand community and connecting with the local people.