Let yourself slide

There are more than 20 ski fields in New Zealand. Most open in early June and run till mid-October or early November.

You don't have to work as an instructor or patroller: jobs are available in areas as diverse as accounting, bar work, management, cleaning, trades (electricians are often in demand), information technology, driving, lift attendance, ski equipment and hire staff. Most jobs are advertised on the websites of ski area owners.

Seasonal work usually pays an hourly rate dependant on age, qualifications and experience. Meal, clothing and travel allowances, rental and merchandise discounts, and all-season lift and ski passes are often provided.

Seasonal snow workers normally work on individual fixed term employment agreements with similar conditions.

Sick and other leave entitlements are accrued across consecutive seasons. Holiday pay is typically paid out at the end of each season at around six per cent of gross earnings.

An NZSIA Level One ski or snowboard qualification is the preferred minimum for New Zealand instructors. The Level One qualification costs around $1000 to obtain and requires part time or full time training. Students must be 18 or older.

Training and qualification is provided through a number of organisations including polytechnics and ski area operators. Some ski fields provide on-the-job instructor training.

An ISIA or an equivalent national level certification is preferred for overseas applicants.

The hourly rate for a Level One qualified instructor is around $16.50 before tax, rising to around $25 an hour or more for more advanced qualifications. An average week has 25-30 teaching hours for instructors.

Those interested in the snow industry are advised to gain as much casual mountain experience as possible.