[Photos] NZ Avalanche Advisory Warns of Danger After Haszard Range Wind Slab Avalanche Catches 2 Skiers

On August 24, a group of skiers triggered a small wind slab avalanche while ski touring up a ridge in the Haszard Range, in the Aoraki Region of New Zealand. Two members of the group were caught; one skier lost a ski and slid a few meters, while the other member was caught and slid roughly 15 meters (50 feet) in the slow-moving debris. Fortunately, no one was buried, and no injuries were reported.



Related: Oahu Snowfields, New Zealand, Report; Artful Snow With Wild Wind





The avalanche likely occurred after three members of the group bunched together during a kick-turn, adding extra load to an already wind-loaded slope. This serves as great reminder of a few important points when traveling in the backcountry.

First, give each other space, especially on exposed terrain, and avoid grouping together closely at kick-turns. Next, and equally as significant, is to watch for wind-loaded slopes, even when the surface may look firm and stable. Lastly is to always have an escape route planned, discussed, and in mind.



After more rain and snow over the last week, mixed with strong westerly winds, the avalanche conditions remain moderate to considerable across many regions. Always check the most recent local avalanche advisory and weather forecast before heading into the backcountry.

The Haszard Range sits in the backcountry above Lake Tekapo, within the broader Aoraki/Mount Cook forecast region used by the NZ Avalanche Advisory. While Aoraki/Mount Cook itself has no lift-served resort — its snow terrain is mostly accessed via heli-skiing or ski touring — several small club ski fields operate nearby around Lake Tekapo, including Roundhill, Fox Peak, and Mount Dobson. These low-key, community-run fields are popular with backcountry skiers looking to access the surrounding ranges, including areas like the Haszard Range where this avalanche occurred.

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