Easy lessons - then it's all downhill

A few simple steps is all it takes to learn to snowboard or ski, writes MILES DAVIDSON, executive director of the New Zealand Ski Council.

A day on the snow is family fun, offering many alternative activities. Some family members may ski and others may snowboard but you can all be together.

You don't have to be an athlete to ski and snowboard, as modern equipment does a lot of the work for you.

However, if you are fit you will find it easier to learn and you won't tire so quickly. Adjust your level of activity to your standard of fitness.

All snow areas have certified instructors who can teach children to ski and snowboard in just a few simple steps. Beginners are made to feel welcome.

In fact, beginners and novices make up 20 per cent of skiers and snowboarders at most snow areas, so if you are starting out you are in good company.

Skiing and snowboarding are good for your health, too. It is great exercise and a great way to enjoy the outdoors. It is one of the few sports that can be enjoyed by school children, teachers and parents - and you can participate throughout your lifetime.

With modern teaching methods, you can be past the beginners stage and moving easily around most of the mountain after only a few lessons. On your first day you will learn how to turn, slow down and ride up the learner lifts. There is no other sport that can be learned as quickly and with as much enjoyment as skiing and snowboarding.

Statistically, skiing and snowboarding are no more hazardous than riding a bike. Modern gear has made skiing much safer than in the old days when skis were stiff, boots soft and bindings rigid.

With the help of a good ski and snowboard school you should enjoy skiing and snowboarding right from your very first day on the snow.

Introductory packages are available at all commercial snow areas for skiing and snowboarding. They include use of the learner lifts, equipment and a lesson.

Getting a school group together for a day on the slopes is easy. Your local ski and snowboarding shop will be able to provide you with how-to videos and brochures. They can also advise you on travelling to the snow, whether you want to hire a coach, mini-van or use public transport.

Public transport leaves for most snow areas from all major city centres and from the bottom of the ski access roads. Your local ski and snowboarding shop will be able to give you more information.

Commercial snow areas all have good access roads and are suited to most vehicles. If you are driving yourself remember the mountain conditions. Use anti-freeze in your radiator; check if chains are required and if so, make sure they are either in your boot or can be hired. Learn how to put your chains on before heading up the mountain and make sure they fit tightly.

Bad weather in town does not necessarily mean bad weather on the mountain.

All skiers and snowboarders are asked to follow the Snow Safety Code: respect the safety and enjoyment of others by behaving responsibly in the snow.

Stay in control, obey all signs, give way to others, always stop where you can be seen. Your skies and snowboards must have brakes or leashes, use a spotter when jumping.

Be safety conscious: the most important thing about your first day skiing and snowboarding is to be warm, dry and comfortable. You probably have the basics of a ski and snowboarding outfit in your wardrobe already.

Just to be sure, here is a clothing checklist:

* Thermal underwear, top and bottom, skivvy, woollen jersey and warm, waterproof jacket and waterproof pants and warm socks. Don't wear jeans.

* Mittens or gloves (leather or nylon outer shell recommended)

* Hat or headband (wool recommended)

* Sunglasses or goggles and sunscreen

New Zealand has 12 commercial snow fields and one commercial cross-country ski area. Two commercial fields are in the North Island, the rest in the South Island. All welcome school groups and offer special prices for new skiers and snowboarding groups.

Ski reports for all snow areas can be obtained by phoning: 0900 4 SNOW (0900 4 7669). If in any doubt, calls can be made direct to the mountain for an update.

Or visit the snow industry Website, which has information on the snow areas plus daily updated snow reports.

Links:

Snow Industry Website