New Zealand is a pretty out there place, isolated on its own at the bottom of the world. You can imagine things are a little different and spending time down here you will find your self in all kinds of random scenarios. In 2016, our instructor crew have been getting the culture shock first hand and we’re here to give you the lowdown, so you know what to expect should you ever find yourself down in this part of the world.
1: Where’s the snow?
This was the first thing I ever thought when I got to NZ for the “winter” and I thought I had made some sort of terrible mistake. When you land in NZ’s biggest city, Auckland, you’ll notice that there is not a drop of snow around nor is there any chance it would be snowing. To be honest you will probably be greeted by people in t-shirts, surrounded by tropical looking plants. When you start your journey to Mt Ruapehu it’s still quite a while before you see anything wintery and then BOOM!
There’s a couple volcano’s popping out of the horizon covered in snow. It only snows off the mountains a couple times a year in our base of Ohakune and we are only 17 km’s from the chairlift! This means you get to do rad off snow activities all winter long such as surfing and mountain biking, plus there is no snow to shovel in your driveway.
2: Why is Everyone Talking to Me?
Are you used to living somewhere where people put their heads down and go about their own business? If so time to break out of your shell because the Kiwi’s are some of the friendliest people out there and it doesn’t matter if your on a chairlift, in the pub or hiking along a seemingly deserted mountain track. There will be a kiwi there who is going to want to chat your ear off and you should probably let them because on top of a hilarious accent they are going to have some great stories. Next thing you know there showing you some secret stashes on the mountain or you have been invited over for dinner to meet the family, either way roll with it. Resourceful folks that love to help, what more can you ask for in the locals.
3: Am I really allowed to ski here?
If your used to skiing in Europe your in for a big surprise. In Europe most resorts only maintain the main runs and once you step off piste you’re taking a risk as its no longer patrolled but in NZ even the wildest terrain is in bounds and ski patrol will be there to take care of you. Mt Ruapehu is a volcano and all the terrain has been shaped over the years by lahars, volcanic mud slides and wild weather, which means its full of all kinds of wild gullies, ridges and cliffs. The ideal place to push your freeride abilities! If that’s not your jam then don’t worry as they have ample wide open bowls and groomed runs for everyone.
The whole country has an amazing relaxed attitude, which will give you a whole new outlook on life. Give us a buzz, we can help you break out of your routine, ride some amazing terrain, meet some unforgettable people and even walk away with some qualifications. Our New Zealand course is currently happening so make sure you check in with our facebook page and instagram, @tickettoridegroup on top of this blog for all the happenings on the ground this winter.