Community

News and Updates

Check out latest news and updates from the NZ Mountain Safety Council:

Save the date - SHAC 2026!
The Southern Hemisphere Alpine Conference (SHAC) is returning to Wanaka on the 10th and 11th June 2026. Read more

Stories

Here we share stories from the alpine community, as a way to use learnings from others to improve avalanche safety, alpine skills and awareness. Dive into the stories below and share! Read more

Avalanche Incidents in NZ | 1998 - 2023 |
"That’s All It Took, One Wrong Step" |
Rescued Ice Climbers Admit Pushing Limits Too Far |
A personal quest for avalanche awareness | Owen's story |
It’s not a waste of a trip if you survive right? | Will's story |
As told by an avalanche forecaster | Chris Cochrane |
Avalanche Fatality Results in Safety Recommendations |
'That’s miracle sort of stuff'

Videos

Here you can watch and learn the basics for staying safe in the mountains. Read more

Avalanche Tips and Terms Series |
Avalanche Awareness Series |
Alpine Snow Skills Series |
Snow Safety with Southern Approach |
International: Various |
International: Orthovox Safety Academy Lab

International Avalanche Centres

Heading overseas? If backcountry trips are on the agenda, it's imperative that you check in on what the local conditions are like. Often there are big differences in snow types, terrain, and weather patterns that you may be unfamiliar with. Read more