NZSIA/SBINZ Stage One requires that you teach up to the level four progression in the NZ class system, but you will be required to ski/ride at a level 5/6 standard. This means, in order to participate as a Ruapehu Snow Academy trainee you should be comfortable on intermediate runs and some off piste terrain before the course begins. You don't need to be an expert, or have perfect form or style, you just need to be confident on most terrain found using an array of different turn types. It is then our job to take your skills and develop them, taking your skiing or riding to the level required for the exams.
How do I get in contact with you?
You can contact us directly via email: visit our Contact Us page for all our details. Feel free to contact us with questions or queries you may have.
What time of the year are your courses?
The southern hemisphere winter runs between the months of June and October, Mt Ruapehu traditionally experiences longer seasons than our southern counterparts. Our courses run from July through to October. The exact dates change slightly each year.
What are the snow conditions like?
New Zealand snow conditions are variable. Because of our land mass configuration we can experience an array of different snow from hard packed to light powder days. Mt Ruapehu can receive heavy snow falls right through to late August (and often beyond) and is renown for it's superb spring snow conditions as late as November. It is for this reason that New Zealand trained snow sports instructors are some of the most diverse and adaptable in the world.
How do I get to the mountain from Auckland?
There are a couple of options here when arriving from overseas. The easiest option is to travel directly from Auckland to Ohakune on the train. The main trunk line runs directly down the centre of the North Island stopping at National Park where you will be met by a Ruapehu Snow Academy representative.
Another option is to travel directly from Auckland to National Park via bus. Again upon your arrival you will be met by a Ruapehu Snow Academy representative.
And thirdly, if you chose you can arrange transfer flights from Auckland international airport to either Taupo Domestic Airport (one hour from Mt Ruapehu) or to Rotorua Domestic Airport (two hours from Mt Ruapehu). At either destination you will be met by a Ruapehu Snow Academy representative.
What do I need to bring?
You will need to have with you at the commencement of the course appropriate ski/board clothing, i.e. jacket, pants, wind breaker, thermals, cap, beanie, gloves, goggles, glasses. All of these accessories can be purchased in Ohakune at a discounted rate.
Ski and snowboard equipment is also required and can also be purchased in New Zealand at discounted rates. However you are welcome to bring your own equipment with you but please ensure that is of a recent era (i.e. no straight skis, rear entry ski boots or low-back snowboard bindings). You do not need high performance race skis or the top of the range board; a good pair of all-mountain performance carving skis or an average all-mountain snowboard will be fine and are well suited to the type of training required in both the Ruapehu Snow Academy programs and in the NZSIA/SBINZ exam courses.
Do I need insurance?
Insurance is always recommended. If you are skiing/riding in New Zealand insurance is important to have when traveling from overseas. You must make these arrangements before you depart.
How is the full-time course scheduled?
The 12 week full-time course is structured with 4 scheduled training days each week and three days off to do with as you wish. This allows you time to relax away from scheduled training days, practice your skiing and riding and, most importantly, it allows you the freedom to freeski / freeride. This plays a major role in your personal improvement and development. We recommended you do not overload yourself with unnecessary work loads such as weekend employment commitments.
The part-time course has scheduled training days assigned to the weekends only.
What transport is available?
Ruapehu Snow Academy will provide full-time course participants with transport to and from Whakapapa ski area from the accommodation.
Where are NZSIA qualifications recognised?
As NZSIA/SBINZ certified instructors your credentials will be highly recognised and respected around the world. This includes the USA, Canada, Europe, Japan and any other ISIA affiliated country.