New Zealand’s Southern Alps has more mountain peaks than the country of Switzerland, so it’s amazing that the sport of skiing in New Zealand has until recently been limited to the well known commercial resorts.

With the help of modern ski equipment and an understanding of the mountains, more people are venturing away from the commercial resorts and enjoying the back country.

Back country skiing is about being in an unpatrolled or unmarked area consisting of ungroomed snow, also known as "off-piste" slopes. Canterbury is the hub of skiing for New Zealand, and there are several options for back country skiing. Terrain can be accessed outside of a ski resorts boundaries or can involve single or multi-day trips through snow camping or the use of mountain huts where available. Most importantly, the land and snow pack are not monitored, patrolled or maintained. Fixed ski lifts are typically not present, but may be used to gain initial altitude.

Black Diamond Safaris is a locally owned and operated business that has a true genuine passion for skiing on New Zealand's off-piste terrain. They have spent the last 20 years hunting down the best snow in Canterbury. So relax and take in the atmosphere and terrain while the Black Diamond Safaris guides pass on their knowledge and backcountry skills so you can experience terrain you might not ever find on your own. Let the hunt begin!