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NZSIA Newsletter – March 2025

Dear NZSIA Members,

It may be March, and still very much feeling like summer here at the office in Arrowtown, but we’ve been deep in winter mode with our operations in Japan! With plenty of snow and plenty of stoked new instructors, it’s been an epic start to the year. Our courses in Niseko, Hakuba, and beyond have been running hot, and it’s been awesome to see so many new and old members taking their instructing to the next level. If you’re keen to join in, there are still a handful of gaps on upcoming courses—so now’s your chance!

 

Looking ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be another big year for NZSIA. We’ve got exciting plans in the works, from new course offerings to fresh initiatives that will keep our members progressing and our community strong. Plus, we’re continuing to focus on sustainability, making sure we do our part to protect the mountains we love.

If you’re back in NZ, now’s the perfect time to start prepping for winter. Check out the upcoming course dates and inspiring stories from our members. And for those working overseas, we’d love to hear what you’re up to—tag us in your adventures!

Here’s to another season of learning, growing, and sending it!

Japan – Exam Season is Kicking Off!

We’re gearing up for a busy exam season in March, with plenty of instructors taking the next step in their journey. If you’re looking to sit or resit your Ski Level Two, we still have limited availability in Hakuba and a few spots left in Appi Kogen. For those keen to get started, there’s also some space remaining on Ski Level One courses in Hakuba—so don’t miss out!
On the Snowboard side, there are still a handful of places left on upcoming courses, but they’re filling fast! If the course you’re after is full, be sure to send us a waitlist request—we often have the odd last-minute space free up, and we’d love to help you get on snow.
Don’t miss your chance—keep an eye on our Dates and Prices page or register your interest to join the waitlist and be the first to know when new spots open up: Ski – here and Snowboard – here

Sustainability: Help Us Find the Next Great Initiative!

In 2025, we’re once again looking for community and environmental initiatives to support—and this time, we’re keen to spread our impact even further across Aotearoa. We know there are incredible projects out there making a real difference, and we want to hear about them!

Last year, we got behind Trees That Count, Southern Lakes Sanctuary, and Gold Medal Nurseries, helping to restore native forests, protect our alpine backyard, and grow snowsports sustainably. One year on, here’s what’s been achieved:

557 native trees planted through Trees That Count

  • Mouri Tūroa Programme (278 trees) – Supporting the health of the Whanganui River, a legal person under NZ law, while creating nature-based jobs for local uri (descendants).
  • Te Waiau Mahika Kai Trust (279 trees) – Restoring the Waiau River with a focus on mahinga kai, protecting traditional food sources and gathering practices for future generations.

Southern Lakes Sanctuary: A Global Spotlight on Our Backyard

Southern Lakes Sanctuary has expanded predator control networks, protecting native wildlife in the alpine regions we love. Their incredible work even caught the attention of National Geographic, featuring in a global spotlight on Aotearoa’s Predator Free 2050 goal!

Who’s Next? Your Ideas Needed!

We’re excited to fund new projects in 2025, and we need your help finding the best initiatives to support. If you know of a community or environmental project that could use a funding boost, let us know!

Email your suggestions to sustainability@nzsia.org and help us make an even bigger impact this year.

NZSIA Cross Country Level One is Back for 2025

Looking to expand your skills and explore a new side of snowsports? NZSIA Cross Country Ski Level One is up and running again for 2025! This certification qualifies you to teach first-timer and beginner lessons in both classic (in the tracks) and skate technique—perfect for those wanting to broaden their instructing experience.
We’ve got two options to get you prepped:
  • July 26-27: Prep days for each technique, giving you most of the season to practice before the certification course on September 3-5.
  • September 1-2: An intensive two-day prep course, followed by certification back-to-back. Ideal for those with existing XC ski experience.
Picture this—peace, quiet, beautiful rolling terrain, and the chance to master a graceful new discipline. Whether you prefer good company or the solitude of the trails, cross-country skiing has something special to offer. If you haven’t tried it yet, you don’t know what you’re missing!

The Origins of NZSIA’s Ski Technique: A Deep Dive into History

Ever wondered how NZSIA’s technical approach first took shape? Our latest History Post is one for the ski nerds and history buffs! John Armstrong takes a deep dive into ‘NZSIA: Technical Influences to 1983,’ exploring the key individuals, associations, and pivotal moments that helped shape the ski technique we use today.
From European influences to insights brought by North American instructors, this article sheds light on how New Zealand instructors were able to “borrow from the best” and develop a world-class teaching and coaching system based on sound biomechanical principles.
Don’t miss this fascinating read—check it out here: Early Technique Influences

 

From the Women’s Task Force to the EDI Task Force: Looking for New Members!

We’re stoked to share that our Women’s Task Force had an incredible first season—running nine on-snow events with nearly 100 women participating, 15 Level Three vouchers redeemed, and 20 new mentor pairings! Looking ahead to the 2025 NZ season, we’re excited to build on this momentum.

While supporting women in snowsports remains at the core of our mission, we want to ensure all members feel valued and supported. With that in mind, we’re evolving into the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Task Force—driving positive change and inclusivity across our organisation. If you have ideas or feedback, we’d love to hear from you! Simply email the NZSIA office with “Attention: EDI Task Force” in the subject line.

A huge shoutout to Ruth Tseng and Kirsty Oakes—thank you for your contributions! Emily Pocock, Mereana Wilkie, Charlotte Villiers-Smith, and Siobhan Challis will continue into 2025, and we’re looking for two passionate members to join the team. If you’re keen to get involved, check out the EDI Task Force Outline here or contact Claire Dooney at vicepresident@nzsia.org.

Getting current for 2025

Memberships rolled over on the 1st Jan 2025. Renewing for 2025 can be done through your profile (remember if you miss a year, fees accrue): https://www.nzsia.org/member/

  • Log into your profile here
  • A PDF version of your card will be created by the office and emailed to you once you have paid.
  • Ensure you have a photo uploaded to your profile (like a passport/selfie photo).
  • If you require a physical card, you can purchase one in your profile from the NZSIA shop for $5.
  • Any problems please email bookings@nzsia.org

Important Update: Lift Pass Discounts for NZSIA Courses

We want to update you on changes to lift ticket discounts for NZSIA courses.

As of this season, NZSIA no longer has direct access to discounted lift tickets at New Zealand resorts. If you are booking a course, we encourage you to check directly with the resort for their lift pass options.

That said, if you are currently employed by a New Zealand resort but attending a course at a different resort, you may still be eligible for a discounted lift ticket. Please contact your employer for the correct documentation. You will need to have:

  • A letter from your employer confirming your employment
  • Your current NZSIA membership card

If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to reach out to us.

Calendar for New Zealand 2025

Check out our New Zealand calendar from mid-January, that is when we will release our courses for the 2025 season for Ski and Snowboard initially – with the other divisions to follow.

If you have any questions, please let us know: bookings@nzsia.org

ISIA Stamps For 2025 Are Here!

If you need to renew your ISIA Stamp, we are ready to help:

  • Membership will need to be current for 2025
  • Purchase the stamp through the NZSIA Shop in your profile – cost is $25.
  • Ensure you have a photo on your profile. This can be uploaded to your profile or emailed into Bookings
  • Ensure you have a recent course, this is a requirement to keep current for your ISIA stamp – more info on this here

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook! The Ski and Snowboard crew will be sharing some great stories to keep you inspired until you’re back on the slopes: Ski and Snowboard

That’s a wrap for this edition! We hope you’re feeling inspired and excited for the upcoming season. As always, we’re here to help you progress in your snowsports journey, whether it’s through our courses, updates, or community.

If you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to reach out. We look forward to seeing you out on the slopes this season—stay safe, stay stoked, and keep progressing!

Your NZSIA team