Backcountry Access

There are multiple easily accessible and regularly used areas of backcountry adjacent to Temple Basin Ski Area with some of the best skiing and snowboarding you’ll find anywhere. Whether you’re popping into the Mingha for a few cheeky laps, or planning an ascent of Mt Temple, there are a few things you need to do before heading off:

Before you arrive

Check the avalanche forecast and plan your trip accordingly

Have a clear plan in mind, based on the avalanche forecast, including the routes that you are going to take (ascents and descent), as well as how much food and water you will need. Make sure you get a good idea of the route from maps, websites, forums and people who’ve been there before.

Make sure you have all the gear

It’s crucial to carry and know how to use avalanche safety equipment when entering the backcountry. An avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe are necessary items. Crampons, ice axe, first aid kit, GPS and a personal locator beacon (PLB) are also highly recommended. We strongly discourage anyone accessing the backcountry from Temple Basin if they do not have the necessary equipment. 

Take a course

Consider taking an educational course to keep yourself safe in the backcountry. Temple Basin offers a range of courses through the New Zealand Snow Safety Institute (NZSSI) which can either teach you the basics of or provide an opportunity to hone your skills.

Check the weather

There are many different websites from which you can try and piece together what the weather is going to do. Remember things can change rapidly in the mountains, so make sure you are prepared for the wind, cold, rain, snow, hail, blistering sunshine or a combination of them all.

Remember to always take weather forecasts with a grain of salt and look at a range of different sites in order to try and best paint a picture of what will actually happen.

Useful resources for weather:

When you arrive

Talk to ski patrol

If there’s one thing that ski patrollers love, it’s talking about skiing and snow conditions. Once you arrive please talk to one of our friendly ski patrol team who will provide you with a wealth of knowledge on safe routes, good areas to check out, and most importantly, where the snow is likely to be best.

Note, that once you exit Temple Basin Ski Area boundary lines you are responsible for your own safety and rescue.

Fill out an intentions form

After talking to ski patrol and finalising your plan, pop in to ski hire and ask to fill out an intentions form. Record where you are going, what you are doing, who’s going and what kind of emergency equipment you are taking. This is all important information that will help us find you in the case of an emergency. And don’t forget to come back past and sign out when you leave. 

Respect the mountain and those on it

Heading out in the backcountry can be one of the best experiences you can have with your skis on. It is important that you respect the mountain by taking only photos and leaving only skin tracks.

Always abide by the following:

• Respect closures – do not ski through or travel through closed terrain within Temple Basin Ski Area
• Do not travel through areas that might endanger others, especially those below you (be aware of rockfall, sluffing etc.)
• Listen to ski patrol. If they tell you not to travel somewhere it is for good reason.

Have fun out there!