So you want to try skiing? Great idea - here's what to expect
That’s great! Skiing is a fun and exciting winter sport that people of all ages and skill levels can enjoy. I have been skiing in New Zealand and overseas for over 30 years. I thought I would give you some tips to help you prepare for your first skiing experience in New Zealand.
Rental equipment: You can rent ski equipment at the ski resort or local ski shop; for skiing, you will need: skis, boots and a set of poles (2); for snowboarding, you will need a snowboard and boots. You can also hire Jackets and ski pants. You cannot hire gloves or hats in the mountain ski rental shops – you have to purchase them.
When choosing skis or a snowboard, hire it applicable to your ability – don’t go thinking you’re the next Olympic downhill champion – to find you’re not on the slopes.
I have always allowed plenty of time to get the right ski rental equipment, especially boots – for skiing or snowboarding; they must be fitted correctly. Ask one of the ski staff in the ski shop or on the mountain to check the fit. I cannot stress this enough – this could be the one thing that ruins your ski experience, not to mention your feet!
Skiing is an outdoor winter activity, so expect cold temperatures and dress appropriately. Somedays on the mountain are better than others, one day, it’s a bluebird (a term for a fine sunny day with great snow), and the next could be clouded in and snowing. Dress appropriately: Dress in layers and wear warm, waterproof clothing. You’ll also need gloves, a hat, and goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and wind.
Take lessons: It’s ideaforttakingke skiing lessons from a qualified instructor. They will teach you the basics of skiing, including how to put on your gear, turn and stop, and get up after a fall. They will also teach you essential safety procedures. Take it slow: Don’t feel like you must ski down the mountain immediately. Take your time and start with easier runs until you feel comfortable.
Here is a basic guide for the equipment you will need for skiing in New Zealand
Skiing, unfortunately, requires quite a bit of equipment and organisation – it’s not just getting in your car and adlibing out when you get there – it does require some planning, especially if you are taking the family.
includes skis, boots, poles, and a snowboard and boots for snowboarding.
Snow pants, a warm jacket, gloves, a hat, and goggles or sunglasses
To protect your head from falls and accidents
Even if it’s cold outside, the sun’s rays can be harmful, and you could get seriously sunburnt. A Tip: Apply sunscreen under your nose and the bottom of your ears as the sun reflects off the snow, and if you miss these areas, it can be rather painful.
For lift passes, rentals, and food
To be able to ski or snowboard on most ski fields in New Zealand you need a lift pass of some sort. It can be for sightseeing only (accessed by the lifts), sledging (on the learners area), learning to ski package or a full mountain pass that allows you to ski all the lifts on the mountain. Today most of the ticketing for the large commercial fields is done online, so we recommended you buy these the day before or go to customer services for guidance.
