New Zealand ski areas are celebrating some big snow falls this week with more on the way. Skiers and boarders got a reminder to remain cautious if entering the backcountry today after an avalanche one ridge over from the Remarkables ski field in Queenstown.
The NZ Herald reported the avalanche happened in the out of resort area Scarpa Run. According to Stuff.co.nz a bus driver spotted the 150 metre avalanche debris this afternoon and alerted the appropriate rescue teams which set of a search and rescue.
A snowboard track was spotted leading in and out of the debris but a search from ski patrol revealed no one caught in the avalanche. Avalanche dogs also searched the area.
The avalanche is a reminder to skiers and boarders wanting to venture outside of ski area boundaries, to always heed caution.
Those entering the backcountry should have the appropriate equipment, know how to use it and consult the Avalanche Advisory for current avalanche status. Queenstown backcountry areas are currently at level 3, considerable risk.
