A Guide to Skiing in New Zealand with Outside Sports

A Guide to Skiing in New Zealand with Outside Sports

Author: BLISTER August 25, 2023 Duration: 1:01:01

Have you ever dreamt about skiing in New Zealand? Well, in this episode, Kara Williard talks with local Kiwi experts, John Knight and Darren Grimmett, from our Blister Recommended Shop, Outside Sports, to give us the rundown on what skiing in this Southern Hemisphere destination entails, and how to make the most of it.


We discuss the best gear for the conditions and terrain in NZ; the difference between ski fields and club fields; backcountry skiing and heliskiing; plus all the other things you can enjoy while in New Zealand, including eating the best meat pies, biking, hiking, and being around some of the genuinely nicest people.

TOPICS & TIMES

John and Darren’s backgrounds (5:02)

Outside Sports’ humble beginnings (11:15)

Gear Trends in NZ (18:18)

Skis for Variable Conditions (24:50)

Getting to New Zealand & Ski Fields vs. Club Fields (27:04)

Backcountry Skiing & Heliskiing (33:18)

Getting Around (40:04)

More than just skiing (42:51)

Best Gear for NZ (47:22)

Heavier BC Gear for a Reason (48:51)

Ski Season Itch (54:26)

Crashes & Close Calls (56:56)

RELATED LINKS:

Blister Recommended Shop: Outside Sports

Blister Recommended Shops

Become a BLISTER+ Member

23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s Guide Pre-Order

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:

Off The Couch

Bikes & Big Ideas

Blister Podcast

CRAFTED

Happy Hour (for Blister Members)



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For anyone who has ever stood in a shop debating the merits of a new jacket or stared at a trail map while thinking about their skis, GEAR:30 is that conversation. This BLISTER podcast goes far beyond basic specs and marketing claims, offering a nuanced, often technical look at the equipment that defines our time outside. The discussion is driven by the people who live with these products: our own reviewers who are putting gear through its paces in real conditions, the designers who obsess over materials and intent, and the athletes whose livelihoods depend on performance. We also check in with the seasoned folks from our network of recommended shops, who see what works and what doesn’t after a season of hard use. Episodes dig into specific items, broader trends in innovation, and the sometimes-surprising realities of long-term testing. It’s a deep, authentic resource for anyone who appreciates the intersection of sports, design, and technology, and who believes the right tool can transform an experience. Tune in for honest, detailed talk that treats outdoor gear with the seriousness and curiosity it deserves.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 398

GEAR:30
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