Ski Touring

We want to keep you safe while you get out and skin up at Craigieburn. Please consult with the Skifield manager or field staff/ticket office before departing. You MUST obey closures.

The highest risks for ski tourers within the ski area are:
Risk of injury or death from avalanches and explosives. Disorientation in poor weather or darkness while skiing or riding. Skiing/riding or falling leads to injury and hypothermia.‍

Talk with the ticket office and Ski Patrollers when going ski touring for essential access and backcountry information. Do not go alone; bring a friend, and let someone know when you expect to return and when to call emergency services for help. Ski down what you skin up, so you are aware of conditions and operations. Read the avalanche bulletin appropriate to the terrain you intend to access particularly if going into the backcountry. Uphill traffic must use outside of trails and remain visible from above at all times. Craigieburn does not provide Patrol response when closed, or for incidents outside the ski area. Please call 111 for all such emergencies. Take responsibility for your own safety and be equipped. Avalanches happen, so it’s important to choose your terrain wisely. It is good practice to provide a contact person with details of your backcountry trip. You can also pop into our Ski Patrol/ticket office at any time during opening hours to check on local conditions. Please be aware that our Ski Patrol do not patrol outside the Ski Area Boundary and only venture here in the case of a known emergency. You need to be well prepared and self-sufficient.

Please visit the Mountain Safety website for details on what is required to ensure a safe backcountry adventure.

Another great book to read is:
‍Backcountry Ski-touring in New Zealand' by Shane Orchard, published by NZAC