Footage has shown a group of backcountry skiers being caught in an avalanche near the Treble Cone in Wānaka.
The Mountain Safety Council said it was one of two human-triggered avalanches reported in the Wānaka region this weekend, and it should act as a warning.
Chief executive Mike Daisley said the events were a sobering reminder that avalanche danger was “very real”.
A group of skiers were caught in an avalanche.
Photo: SCREENSHOT
“While details are still limited at this early stage, both avalanches occurred in backcountry terrain outside the ski area boundary.
“Given the current conditions, travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended in this area.”
Police said four people were accounted for and safe.
They were alerted to the avalanche about 2.30pm on Saturday, about one to two kilometres from the Treble Cone Ski Field area.
One person was reported to have received minor injuries.
Police Search and Rescue was advised, but did not attend.
A Treble Cone Ski Field area spokesperson told The Herald the avalanche occurred in the backcountry, and their avalanche response team was on standby but not required.
The avalanche advisory, provided by MSC, is currently forecasting a high avalanche danger in the Wānaka region, after recent spring snowfalls combined with high winds and poor snowpack stability.
Mountain Safety Council chief executive Mike Daisley.
Photo: Supplied / Mountain Safety Council
“Natural avalanches are likely and human-triggered avalanches are very likely,” Daisley said.
“At this danger rating, the alpine backcountry is not a sensible place to be.”
Anyone entering the backcountry should have the necessary training, skills and equipment to manage avalanche risk.
“That means avoiding avalanche terrain when the danger is elevated, recognising signs of instability, and always carrying the essential rescue gear-beacon, shovel and probe. Preparation and informed decisions save lives.”
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