Taking your first snowboarding trip? It can be daunting when you begin to consider everything you will need. Packing your board, your snow clothes, enough clothing to stay warm, then deciding what footwear you need and then finally things to keep you entertained! Then you start thinking about your, can it make it? Can you make it? Are you confident driving in snow?

There is a lot to consider. Here is a simple and quick list that might clear a few things in your mind.

What to Pack

For most, packing will be the easiest part of your snow trip, however here a few pointers on items often forgotten:

• Sunglasses – it may be cold, but the sun and its reflection off the white snow can be awfully harsh (for one, you are closer to it)
• Sunscreen – just as above, I personally have had some of the worst sunburn from the snow
• Lip Balm – windburn on the lips can be painful
• Beer and Snacks – essential for long trips. But be responsible and dont drink and drive!

Clothing

Surprisingly, it is actually quite cold at the snow. Thus, it’s pretty important you dress for the climate. Pants, long-sleeve shirts, thermals, legwarmers and wool jumpers are all recommended. Along with a couple of beanies, spare pair of shoes and definitely more than one pair of socks. On top of this, remember your gloves and goggles!

Getting There

Plan on driving? It’s often not just a simple drive up country. Mountain roads are often heavily damaged, icy and dangerous. Unfortunately, many drivers are much more experienced then you are on these roads, and love to show it. All drivers need to take a few precautions while making their way up the mountain. Of course, one must obey the road rules, but also pay attention to warning/information signs, especially for details about wheel chains. Anti-freeze in the radiator can prevent engine damage if you intend to stay multiple days. Day travel is recommended, as on top of all the difficulties of alpine driving one does not need poor vision. Also, make sure you have plenty of fuel; it’s ten times more difficult to refuel if you happen to run out on mountain roads.

Wheel Chains

It is compulsory for all cars to carry chains, just in case conditions worsen, by all 2WD’s. The wheel chains help your tires grip the road in slippery conditions. They can be hired cheaply at most snow rental stores, including towns nearby; with attendants able to fit the chains and show you how to put them on. Check info with the resort you will be attending for specific details.

Remember, most mountain’s have gate entry points with costs reaching $50 per car, which cover parking and entry fees.

Other Options

Don’t want to drive? Other options include buses, trains or even helicopters, depending on the mountain of choice. Taking the coach route could be beneficial to those uncomfortable with driving, however if you prefer not to be stuck on a bus with 60-odd tourists, and being herded around, this may not be the option for you.

Originally posted 2010-02-11 10:55:44.

When we talk about the evolution of snowboarding and skiing many cite the changing facets of riding styles as the factors that have molded riding into what it is today. Some would argue that without progression there can be no evolution, and in today’s world much of the progression comes from freestyle riding.

But what if we take a further step back from that? What do riders need to progress? Can it be that riding has come to the level it is at today thanks to the evolution in the resorts which not only facilitate but harness and support that progression? If resort evolution has lead to the progression of freestyle snowboarding and skiing, then Snow Park NZ would have to be considered the revolution which sparked the evolution.

So you’ve lived under a rock and your asking yourself ‘what is Snow Park?!’. To put it simply, its the first dedicated freestyle terrain park resort in the world. A freestyle snowboarding and skiing mecca. 60 hectares of pure terrain park heaven, an entire site dedicated to providing some of the worlds best facilities for freestyle riding.

Snow Park is situated Cardrona Valley, just 35km from Wanaka and 55km from the well known Queenstown on the south island of New Zealand. One fixed quad chair covers the park and although annual snowfall might not be so alluring, 100% coverage by the snowmaking ensures consistently good cover.

Within the park you will find freestyle terrain for all rider types. The park is home to not one but two superpipes. a quarterpipe, numerous kickers of all sizes and a stack of rails and boxes. Sound intimidating? Dont let it scare you cause Snow Park recognises that we were all beginners at one stage, and new in 2007 is the ‘Progression Park’, a dedicated novice park to help riders find their freestyle feet. Not enough to get you out there? Well then how about youth development freestyle program aimed at bringing young riders into the world of progressive freestyle. Snow Park offers a number of different packages developed to suit all types willing to learn.

For those looking to step up, the park offers endless potential to explore the boundaries of your abilities. All elements are kept in pristine condition by a meticulous crew of groomers who will always keep you guessing with innovative and groundbreaking features. Riding brand new lines on a daily basis is not surprising here.

It is this sort of commitment which exemplifies Snow Park’s dedication towards the progression of freestyle riding and is the reason not only novices but the worlds best come to ride this park. And believe me I do mean the worlds best. Snow Park is often a popular choice with riders during the northern summers. And why not when events such as the Burton NZ Open take place at the park.

For those lucky enough to have rode Snow Park, then hearing these words are of no surprise, but for those who haven’t, I have but one thing to say, don’t take my word for it, Snow Park is something you simply have to experience to fully appreciate and understand.

SNOW PARK FAST FACTS

• Location: Cardrona Valley, New Zealand
• Elevation: 1530 meters
• Size: 60 Hectares
• Annual Snowfall: 50cm
• Snow making: 33 Guns, 100% of terrain
• Chair lifts: 1 Fixed Quad
• Lift Ticket: Starting from $64 daily adult
• Season Pass: $1199 adult (2009)
• On mountain accommodation: Yes

Originally posted 2010-02-11 11:06:17.

Niseko is a small, yet Japan’s top ski resort town located in Abuta District, Shiribeshi, Hokkaidō. Because of its northern location, the weather steams which come from the Siberia pick up a sudden surge of moisture from the Sea of Japan and slam into the peaks of Niseko, producing the best volumes of lightest and driest powder in the world.

Niseko is divided into three regions, Hirafu, Annapuri and Higashiyama. These regions differ in terrain and the quality of snow they receive.

Hirafu

Hirafu is considered the best place for powder, knee deep snow in Niseko (some people go ahead and compare the lace with entire Japan). After a good blizzard or snow fall, people just rush to ride the elevator for the first run at the snowy slope. The terrains offer a number of different courses, with varying tree density and gradient for skiers from beginner to advance. It is also a great place for snowboard lovers with big half-pipe, one-make and table-top jumps along with natural quarter pipes and hits everywhere.

Because of the high quality of snow, Hirafu hosts a number of snow sports event and is the major tourist attraction in Niseko.

• Max elevation: 1200 meters
• Min. elevation: 300 meters
• Number of courses: 34
• Longest run: 5600 meters
• Min/Max Temperature: -2/-5
• Min/Max snow depth (cm): 180/330

Annupuri

Unlike the Hirafu region, Annupuri offers less challenging courses and is suitable for novice and intermediate skiers and boarders (definitely where I fall). The quality of snow at Annupuri is almost similar to Hirafu but if you are a snow freak, you will find more quantity in Hirafu than in Annupuri. The night life of Annupuri is quite dull because there isn’t much to do. Unlike Hirafu which is as lively at night as it is at day time. Some terrain and snow facts regarding Annupuri are:

• Max. elevation: 1156 meters
• Min. elevation: 400 meters
• Number of courses: 13
• Longest run: 3500metres
• Beginner: 30%   Intermediate: 50%   Advanced: 20%
• Snow-boarding: Table top
• Min/Max temp: -3/-7
• Min/Max snow depth (cm): 165/ 248

Higashiyama

Even the pros agree – “Powder doesn’t get any better than this”. Right until the end of the day the snow at Higashiyama is in great quality. With the longest 4.5km exciting mogul run, and a great snow park for boarders, this is an excellent all-round resort. Although Higashiyama provides good snow and best place for front valley skiing, it is a less popular region of the Niseko (there seems to be no reason why). So if you are able to find good place for your self, be assured that no one will disturb you. Some facts for this place are:

• Max. elevation: 1170 meters
• Min. elevation: 280 meters
• Number of courses: 12
• Longest run: 4500 meters
• Beginner: 30%   Intermediate: 40%   Advanced: 30%
• Snow boarding: Table top; One make Wave
• in/Max temp:  -2/-5
• Min/Max snow depth (cm): 380/400

Originally posted 2010-02-11 11:36:30.

Going on a ski holiday? You have packed your snowboard or skis, packed your toothbrush and Beanie. But did you remember your ski travel insurance?

Ski travel insurance is no longer a gimmick. It forms a vital part of a successful ski holiday and you should never leave home without it. It takes care of things beyond your control, which could a ruin a holiday and cost you a small fortune, all for a nominal cost.

Some reasons you may need ski travel insurance include:

• Your flight is canceled
• Your passport and wallet are stolen, and you need emergency cash and a replacement passport.
• You’re involved in an accident and adequate medical treatment is not available. You need medical evacuation.
• You need to cancel your trip due to illness.
• Your airline or tour operator goes bankrupt. You need your non-refundable expenses covered and to get to your destination.
• You have a medical emergency in a foreign country.
• All ski resorts are closed for the duration of the trip
• You damage your ski hire gear

Plus many more…..

In years gone by, airlines would take care of passengers when there was a cancellation or delay, but unfortunately those days are long gone and stranded passengers are left to fend for themselves. Ski travel insurance solves all these problems plus more, in most cases for under AU$100.

Many different scenarios haunt a ski traveler, but there is no reason a small hiccup should affect the remainder of your snow holiday. Ski travel insurance is the simple solution. There is no way to prevent all problems arising, but at least with ski travel insurance you will not be left to fend on your own.

There are many companies out there selling Ski travel insurance and making a decision on which one will provide you with the best cover and value for money can be difficult and time consuming. But choosing the right one can make a big difference if things should go wrong, not only on your wallet but more importantly, with you.

So check out your option, get covered and stay safe.

New Zealand is the Southern Hemisphere’s snowboard capitol. Each year, snowboarders from around the world descend on this part of the world to take in some epic backcountry, world class resorts, world leading terrain parks and the chilled lifestyle that is NZ.

Here is a summary of some of most popular resorts of New Zealand.

Coronet Peak

Coronet Peak is the South Island’s most popular ski area – and with good reason. Diverse terrain, fantastic views, close proximity to Queenstown and a cosmopolitan atmosphere create a superb winter experience for every level of snow sport enthusiast.

The terrain is varied and the facilities on the mountain more than adequate. It’s easy to get to, being only 25 minutes from Queenstown along mostly sealed roads, which makes it about the easiest ski resort to access anywhere in New Zealand.

Coronet Peak has 280 skiable hectares accessed by a six-seat express chair, an express quad, a double chair, a t-bar, magic carpet and beginner tow. Extensive, state-of-the-art snowmaking ensures a long season while stunning views of lake and mountain are visually spectacular.

Distance from Queenstown: 18kms (25 minutes)

Snowlife opinion: We loved it! Coronet peak is a great resort with a few very cool runs, not to mention the length of them! They seem to just go on forever. Great for beginners to advanced snowboarders and skiers.

The Remarkables

High in The Remarkables mountain range near Queenstown, The Remarkables Ski Area offers a true alpine experience in three sunny bowls where 220 skiable hectares of terrain spreads across 700 hectares of reserve. Three quad chairs, one magic carpet, and one beginner tow offer access to the trails and parks.

A major positive of The Remarkables Ski Area is it suits a broad range of abilities and tastes, so individuals, families, and groups can be catered for.

Distance from Queenstown: 28kms (45 minutes)

Snowlife opinion: Remarkables is a nice resort. Great for skiers, although being a snowboarder myself I found it a little boring. A nice and easy Rail Park and a few nice kickers but the runs are shorter and a little tiresome. For the advanced rider there is some good terrain to scout out and a little hiking will be well worth the effort.
Treble Cone

Spread over three large basins there are trails to suit all ages and skill levels. From the purpose-built learner area with a Magic Carpet Lift, to comfortable, groomed green and blue runs, through challenging black runs and secret powder stashes; Treble Cone has great terrain for all levels of ability.

Treble Cone offers more intermediate and advanced terrain than any other South island ski area with off-piste powder skiing and boarding unrivaled.

Distance from Queenstown: 89kms (2 hours)

Snowlife opinion: Unfortunately time did not allow us to visit this resort so we cannot offer a first hand account. What we can tell you is how devastated we were that we missed out on the opportunity! We will just have to go back next year!

Cardrona

This great resort features rolling terrain, spread across three bowls, is easy going, and makes you feel like a superman! Some more experienced skiers and boarders may be left wanting more challenge by days end. Due to its higher altitude than most, the snow is considerably colder and drier making for great snow to ski or board on.

One thing Cardrona does super well is its terrain parks. I had a ball on these and the reason is simple, well shaped features that span an entire run. Sick of walking parks cause they are too short. Well there will be no walking here. Ride the entire park and then ride the chair all the way back up, easily the longest park I’ve riden. And if you need some more terrain, then Snow Park is across the road. Paradise for freestyle riders.

Distance from Queenstown: 58kms (65 minutes)

Snowlife opinion: Loved it to pieces. Great resort with some really nice long runs. Built for skiers and boarders who love a bit of terrain. A big feature of this place is the sweet terrain park.