News and Updates
Check out latest news and updates from the NZ Mountain Safety Council:
Video reinforces important warning to backcountry users | 6 September 2025
A video showing a group of skiers being caught in an avalanche in the Treble Cone backcountry has prompted a serious warning for all backcountry enthusiasts. View the full story here.
Avalanche footage a reminder of backcountry dangers | 4 September 2025
MSC says a video of an avalanche in Aoraki/Mt Cook, posted on the NZ Avalanche Advisory social channels, is a timely reminder for anyone heading into the alpine backcountry as a series of storms hit the country. Read more here.
Skiing tragedy prompts early-season safety warning | 21 July 2025
A coroner's inquiry into a skiing accident on Mt Ruapehu in June 2022 is a sobering reminder to backcountry skiers to take extra care when planning trips in early winter. Read more here.
Essential tips for safe winter hunting | 7 July 2025
With winter now upon us, alpine hunting requires a greater level of preparation, skills and equipment to navigate snow and ice. Careful route selection, with an eye on the weather, daylight hours and the avalanche forecast, are essential for a safe alpine hunt at this time of year. Read more here.
Avalanches highlight importance of being prepared | 26 June 2025
New Zealand's official avalanche forecasting service, provided by MSC, will be forecasting across all 13 alpine regions it monitors from Friday 27 June 2025. Avalanche activity has been reported in most regions. Read more here.
Save the date - SHAC 2026!
The Southern Hemisphere Alpine Conference (SHAC) is returning to Wanaka on the 10th and 11th June 2026. The two-day conference brings together the alpine community for a series of workshops and presentations to extend your skills and knowledge. Mark your calendar, more information to come soon!
Avalanche Incidents Data
We have published the latest findings from an in-depth look at 25 years of avalanche incident data, from 1998 - 2023. View the findings here.
Updated Avalanche Forecast Elevations for Aoraki and Aspiring | 8 November 2024
The New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZAA) has adjusted the avalanche forecast elevation bands for the Aoraki/Mt Cook and Aspiring regions as the snow line begins to recede in late spring. Read more here.
Warning Issued to Backcountry Users in Southern Lakes | 24 September 2024
A series of human-triggered avalanches in the Southern Lakes has prompted NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) to issue a warning to backcountry enthusiasts in the Wānaka area. Read more here.
Caution Urged Following Increased Avalanche Danger | 13 September 2024
NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is encouraging backcountry snow enthusiasts to stay informed and stay safe this weekend, with increased avalanche danger in many parts of the South Island. Read more here.
Lessons Learnt From an Ice Climber's 30-Metre Plunge | August 2024
An ice climber who fell 30 metres at the Touchdown area shares his experience and what he's learnt from the incident that left him with serious injuries. Read more here.