Alpine Instruction
Avalanche Skills Courses
Hands-on avalanche training for safer decision-making in the backcountry
Learn essential avalanche skills for winter backcountry travel
Avalanche Skills Courses
Avalanche Skills Courses
Develop the skills and judgement to travel safely in avalanche terrain
Learn how to recognise, assess, and manage avalanche risk with our practical, field-based avalanche skills courses. Designed for ski tourers, splitboarders, mountaineers, hunters, and winter trampers, these courses give you the knowledge and decision-making skills to travel more safely in New Zealand’s backcountry.
Based in Lake Tekapo and the Two Thumb Range, Alpine Recreation delivers hands-on avalanche training in real alpine terrain — not just the classroom.
Build the Skills That Matter in Avalanche Terrain
Understanding avalanches isn’t just about theory — it’s about making good decisions in complex, changing mountain environments. Our courses focus on developing the judgement and habits that keep you and your group safe.
Across our Avalanche Skills Courses, you’ll learn how to:
- Recognise avalanche terrain and identify hazards
- Understand the New Zealand Avalanche Advisory forecast
- Interpret snowpack structure and recent weather effects
- Make safe route choices in avalanche terrain
- Apply human factors and group decision-making strategies
- Use avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel)
- Conduct efficient companion rescue in an emergency
You’ll practise these skills in realistic scenarios so you can apply them confidently on your own trips.
Take Responsibility in the Backcountry
Avalanche terrain demands respect, preparation, and good decision-making. Our courses give you the tools to make informed choices — but they also reinforce an important mindset: you are responsible for your own safety and your group.
NZ Avalanche Skills Courses 1 & 2
We offer a structured progression aligned with New Zealand’s standard avalanche education pathway. Both courses combine classroom sessions with extensive time in the field, ensuring you gain practical, usable skills.
MSC Avalanche Skills Course 1 (ASC1)
Ideal for those new to backcountry travel or wanting a solid foundation. Learn the basics of avalanche awareness, terrain recognition, and safe travel practices.
MSC Avalanche Skills Course 2 (ASC2)
Designed for those with prior experience (ASC1 or equivalent). Go deeper into snowpack analysis, trip planning, and advanced decision-making in more complex terrain.
Learn in Real Avalanche Terrain
Our courses take place in the Two Thumb Range and surrounding Mackenzie backcountry near Lake Tekapo — an ideal environment for avalanche education.
✓ Plenty of slopes, aspects, and terrain features
✓ Reliable access to snow during winter
✓ Terrain suited to both introductory and advanced learning
✓ Access to private alpine huts for immersive multi-day courses
This allows us to teach in real conditions, adapting each course to the current snowpack and weather.
Small Groups, Expert Instruction
We keep group sizes small to maximise learning and safety. Our IFMGA and NZMGA qualified avalanche instructors are highly experienced alpine professionals with deep knowledge of New Zealand snow conditions.
You’ll benefit from:
✓ Personalised coaching and feedback
✓ Plenty of hands-on practice
✓ Realistic rescue scenarios
✓ Open discussion and decision-making exercises
Our goal is to build not just knowledge, but confidence and good judgement.
Who Are These Avalanche Courses For?
Our avalanche skills courses are ideal for:
✓ Ski tourers and splitboarders
✓ Alpine climbers and mountaineers
✓ Winter trampers and snowshoers
✓ Adventure racers training for alpine events
✓ Anyone travelling in avalanche-prone terrain in winter
If you’re heading into the backcountry in winter, avalanche education is essential.
Why Choose Alpine Recreation?
Alpine Recreation has been delivering alpine instruction in New Zealand for decades, with a strong focus on practical, real-world skills.
✓ Courses are based in real backcountry, not just ski area side-country
✓ Experienced, professional instructors
✓ Emphasis on decision-making and human factors
✓ Access to high-quality alpine terrain and private huts
✓ Supportive learning environment for all experience levels
✓ Quality, modern avalanche rescue equipment is included
✓ Spend more time learning, instead of waiting in lift queues
✓ Escape the crowds – the Lake Tekapo Mackenzie region is not as hectic and crowded as Wanaka and Queenstown
Find the Right Course for You
Explore the Avalanche Skills Courses below to find the right starting point or next step in your progression. Whether you’re new to backcountry travel or looking to deepen your expertise, we’ll help you build the skills to travel more safely and confidently.
