We know what it's like to be a raw beginner! The information is here to help you navigate your way through your first day.

Check out the snow report

Daily snow reports are available in print from most accommodation providers and retailers. They are also broadcast on radio stations each morning throughout the ski season.

These snow reports give you the most current snow and weather conditions, road conditions and chain requirements, boundary and closure information along with which lifts and base lodge facilities are operating, and any other pertinent information for the day. Check out this information before you head up the mountain.

On the day

Start your day with breakfast. Believe us, you will be a lot happier, warmer and be better able to cope with a day in the mountains with a breakfast than those who go without.

Make sure that you wear appropriate clothing. We advise all guests to dress in layers choosing items that are fit for an alpine environment. It is recommended that you start with a good thermal layer for both your upper and lower body. This will act as a second skin, pulling moisture away from your body and keep you nice and warm. As a second and third layer it is good to wear a long sleeve t-shirt or micro fleece to keep you snug and lastly, as an outer layer, a good water and wind-proof jacket and pants. Accessories such as woolly hats, gloves and scarves are highly recommended for added comfort on those cold and wintry days. A great range is usually available in the snow shops at the ski areas or these items are readily available to be purchased in the shops in the resort towns.

Lift passes

When purchasing your lift passes look out for the great package deals available. In New Zealand, Mt Hutt, The Remarkables and Coronet Peak offer the NZSuperpass, combining the best activities in the South Island with your ski lift pass. Also available are a range of combo packages, these come in one-, three- or five-day ski or snowboard options. The longer the package the better you will become!

Rental equipment

Sometimes it's easier to rent your equipment rather than have to carry it everywhere you go. Make sure when you are trying on rental boots that you are wearing the socks that you will wear in these boots. They should fit snugly and you shouldn't be able to lift your heal.

Your rental staff will recommend the height and type of skis and snowboards that will suit you best and they will set the bindings to the correct setting before you even get near the snow.

A lot of these places have gortex jackets and pants for rent. Gortex is the material most snow jackets are made from. It keeps you dry and protected from the harsh weather. You should collect your jacket and pants before you get your ski and snowboard equipment.

Lessons

Lessons are the fastest way to improve your skills on snow. Group lessons run in both the morning and afternoon at most ski areas and last for approximately two hours. It is important to be aware of the different ability levels if you are to get the maximum benefit out of your lesson.

Got any more tips? Let us know using the comments form below.