The NZAA Forecasting Team

The NZ Avalanche Advisory Forecasting Team is dedicated to providing accurate and timely avalanche forecasts to ensure the safety of backcountry enthusiasts. The team is comprised of experienced avalanche professionals, located across Aotearoa. These snow safety experts use a combination of field observations, weather data, public observations and information from commercial operators  to assess avalanche conditions across New Zealand's alpine regions. 

They are committed to promoting avalanche awareness and education, helping you make informed decisions while enjoying the stunning landscapes of New Zealand's backcountry.

Meet the NZAA Forecasters:

North Island NZAA Forecasters

North Island: Richard Te Ua Tongariro | Todd Velvin Taranaki  | Ryan Leong Tongariro

Top of the South Island NZAA Forecasters

Top of the South Island: Jim Young, Mark Brown (not pictured) Arthur's Pass | Matt Wilkinson Nelson Lakes | Connor Glynn Mt Hutt | Scott Walker Craigieburn Range

Aoraki/Mt Cook NZAA Forecasters

Mackenzie Region: Tai Naka, Dave McKinley, Mal Haskins (not pictured), Ben Taylor (not pictured) Aoraki/Mt Cook + Ohau. Featuring Search and Rescue Dogs Avalanche (SARDA) pups.

Two Thumbs NZAA Forecasters

Axel Reiser, Petrouchka Steiner-Greierson, Pete Ozich, Elke Braun-Elwert, Mark Austin Two Thumbs

Queenstown NZAA Forecasters

Lower South Island: Chris Cochrane, Will Rowntree Queenstown | Simon Howells (not pictured) Wanaka

Aspiring NZAA Forecasters

Hugh Barnard, Rich Raynes, Pete Whitworth Aspiring

Fiordland NZAA Forecasters

Jim Spencer, Brenda George Fiordland

NZAA Forecaster supervisors

NZAA Supervisors: Kevin Boekholt + Jamie Robertson


View the forecast for your local region HERE.