If you’re planning to hit the slopes this year you might want to follow a few simple tips provided by two of New Zealand’s top snow athletes.

Backed by ACC and the Ski Area Association of New Zealand (SAANZ), Nico Porteous and Cool Wakushima are laying down a challenge for all skiers and snowboarders across Aotearoa.

They are asking snow sports enthusiasts to “Have a Hmmm” before they hit the slopes this winter.

“We’re all out here to make the most of the day, but make sure to keep your energy levels up,” says Wakushima, who represented New Zealand at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

“I love a hot choccy between runs,” she says.

Porteous claimed his first gold medal in the Half Pipe at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. He said his No 1 tip was to “look before you leap”.

“Check out the feature and make sure that it’s within your ability,” says the 22-year-old.

Both athletes reminded the public to “have fun” while following the safety tips.

ACC is issuing tips to prevent injuries on the slopes. Photo: Mt Hutt.

In the past five years, New Zealanders have experienced over 60,000 snow sport related injuries and most of these injuries could have been prevented.

Over the same period, ACC has spent more than $160 million helping people recover from snow sport-related injuries.

Across New Zealand there were 13,304 snow-sport related claims accepted in 2023. There were 7,985 (skiing) and 5,319 (snowboarding) claims accepted – which was slightly down on the 13,614 snow sport injury claims accepted in 2022.

The regions with ski fields had the most injuries in 2023 - Otago (6,388), Canterbury (2204) and Manawatu-Wanganui (1,661).

In 2023, the 20-24 age group (838) had the most skiing injuries, while the 25-29 age group (919) had the most snowboarding injuries.

The most common types of injury with both skiing and snowboarding were soft-tissue injuries. Fracture / dislocations and concussions were second and third respectively.

For skiing the main parts of the body that were injured were people’s knees, shoulders and lower back. For snowboarding people’s shoulders, hand / wrists and knees were the most common sites of injury.

Children enjoying some snow time. Photo: Cardrona Alpine Resort..

Throughout the season Nico’s and Cool’s tips will be shared through videos on a range of ski fields’ websites and on social media.

ACC injury prevention programme leader James Whitaker encouraged all New Zealanders to follow Nico’s and Cool’s tips this season.

“Hitting the slopes with friends and family is one of the most wonderful things you can do in Aotearoa New Zealand,” he says.

“We want everyone to embrace that and enjoy this winter season on the slopes safely so they can keep doing what they love. If we get injured on the slopes it can significantly affect our lives as well as the lives of friends, family and workmates too”.

Whitaker encouraged people to be considerate of others, especially during busy periods like the school holidays.

“It’s a busy time of year on ski slopes all around New Zealand,” he says. “Know your limits and enjoy the mountain in a safe and respectful way so that everyone goes home happy and injury free.”

Whitaker says it is good to prepare your body for something you haven’t done in a while.

“If you are hitting the slopes complete a warm-up and stretch. For the casual skier and snowboarder, it is a good idea to park in the lower carparks and walk up to the chairlift.

“That will get your legs warmed up and ready for your first run of the day.”

A snowboarder enjoying the slopes. Photo: Cardrona Alpine Resort..

ACC has teamed up with SAANZ to ensure Kiwis and other ski field users continue to have fun on the slopes and stay injury-free so they can come back for more.

SAANZ Chairman Toby Arnott says the partnership aims to reduce preventable injuries on the slopes. They want to ensure everyone finishes their day on the right note.

“New Zealand has some of the world’s most beautiful places to ski and snowboard and it is always an exciting time at the start of the snow season,” he says.

“We’re keen to help as many people as possible to experience everything our fields have to offer.”

Tips for staying safe on the slopes:

· Know and follow the snow safety code.

· Know your limits and choose the right run.

· Protect yourself and wear the right gear.

· Find your space and leave room for others.

· Check the conditions and be prepared for anything because things change quickly.

· Take it easy on the first few runs then gradually speed things up/go a bit harder.

· Pay attention to your energy levels – have a break, a drink, and some kai if you feel you’re getting a bit tired.