Please attribute to Constable Conrad Smith, National Park Police:
Police ask that visitors to the ski fields at Mt Ruapehu remain inside the designated areas unless they have the skills, experience and necessary rescue equipment to be self-sufficient in the backcountry.
Ski field areas are staffed by ski patrols and they put a lot of effort into making sure there are appropriate safety measures in place. This includes roping off cliffs, ensuring there is adequate avalanche control and providing first aid and rescue responses for people who need it.
When you venture out into backcountry there are no safety measures in place and if you are not prepared you are seriously putting your life in danger.
Just this week Police have had to use a helicopter to rescue two people who were unprepared for backcountry conditions and had ventured past the ski field boundaries.
Anyone who is planning to go backcountry should carry an avalanche probe, avalanche transceiver and shovel. As well as carrying them, ensure you know how to use them correctly. Having this equipment greatly increases your chances of rescue should an emergency occur.
Police also advise people to travel with someone as this gear is of no use if you are on your own.
Police also strongly recommend you take the time to check the New Zealand Avalanche Advisory website and talk to ski patrols about the conditions before heading into the backcountry.
Going out in the New Zealand wilderness without up to date information and proper equipment is a recipe for disaster. This is especially true in areas like Mt Ruapehu which experience extreme conditions and a changing landscape due to the elements.
Police do not want to stop people having fun, but want to ensure they are safe while doing so.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
