Off piste on the mountain, check it out

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 12, Issue 551, 30 August 1994, Page 2 (Supplement)

Off piste on the mountain, check it out

By

Kevin

White

Whilst the bulk of visitors to Ruapehu arrive to ski or snowboard at the mountain resorts there are those who spend time well off-piste, pursuing fresh unmarked snow, or solitude and spectacular views. With the commencement of spring and finer weather more and more people are taking to the higher slopes and remote areas of Ruapehu. For many this will be the first experience of being away from marked trails and ski patrol areas. When heading away from the resorts extra precautions are needed. Conditions can deteriorate rapidly. Weather changes are not the only danger on the mountain — avalanches do occur and are a threat to the skier and climber alike. Full forecast The Department of Conservation receive each day a full weather forecast and situation analysis from the Meteorological Service. This is available to all at park headquarters as well

as a report on avalanche danger. The avalanche report available from the department is applicable only to the northern aspect slopes. For information on the southern aspect slopes it is advisable to contact Turoa Ski Patrol for an appraisal of the situation. If intending to spend a day on the mountain off trail remember to advise someone of your intentions and estimated time of return. The Department of Conservation has IntCntion Report Forms available which are collected daily, but remember to still advise a friend or relative. Courses are available for those who wish to explore the more remote regions of the park safely, or for those interested in learning some mountain craft. According to Kevin Conaglen of Mountain Guides, Ruapehu is an ideal training ground due to the variety of terrain and weather conditions found here.

"There' s everything from severe ice and frozen waterfalls to gentle walking slopes." He will be shortly run-

ning a two-day course in basic mountain craft covering crampon and ice axe techniques, as well as snow caving overnight. For those

more intent on pursuing technical mountaineering a five-day course is available promoting self sufficiency in the alpine environment.