Know your limits to have fun on the slopes

If you’re planning to hit the slopes this winter, 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’re asking snow sports enthusiasts to ‘Have a hmmm’ before they hit the slopes. 

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

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

Nico claimed his first gold medal in the half pipe category at Beijing. He says his number one tip is to “look before you leap”.

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

Both athletes are keen to remind the public to have fun but be sure to follow the safety tips.

The impact of snow sports injuries 

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.

Not surprisingly, the regions with outdoor ski fields had the most injuries in 2023 – Otago (6,388), Canterbury (2,204) 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 in 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 to be injured were knees, shoulders and lower back. For snowboarding, shoulders, hand/wrists and knees were the most common sites of injury. 

How to ‘Have a hmmm’ on the snow

Throughout the season, Nico 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 encourages all New Zealanders to follow Nico and Cool’s advice this season.

“Hitting the slopes with friends and family is one of the most wonderful things you can do in 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.”

James encourages 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 everyone goes home happy and injury free.”

James says it’s best to prepare your body properly for something you haven’t done in a while.

“Be sure to complete a warm-up and stretch. For the casual skier and snowboarder, it’s a good idea to park in the lower carparks and walk up to the chairlift,” he says.

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

Partnering to keep Kiwis safe 

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 with ACC aims to reduce preventable injuries. 

The common goal is 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 the start of the snow season is always an exciting time,” 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 can 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’re getting tired