Black Diamond Safaris
Black Diamond Safaris was established in 1996 and is locally owned and operated in Methven, Canterbury. All the BDS guides work with the staff on the ski field to ensure the best and safest conditions on the day. Hunting down fresh snow is their job, so relax, take in the atmosphere and terrain while they cater to your New Zealand alpine adventure.
LET THE HUNT BEGIN!
Snow Hunter Safari
The package here is a sample designed to provide you with an idea of how a Snow Hunter Safari might run and to give you an idea of costs, however BDS can put together a safari to suit your holiday schedule and all bookings are subject to availability. A snow hunter can be arranged for any number of people (2 or more). The best value is is multiples of four, with the ratio of one guide to 4 snow hunters.
New Zealand Club Fields are regarded as the best off piste terrain accessible from a lift, opening up thousands of possible runs. Hunting down the best snow involves mountain skills and knowledge of the backcountry. The BDS guides pass on their knowledge and introduce basic backcountry skills so you can experience terrain you might not ever find on your own.
The best months for a snow hunter safari are August and September, as the days are longer and the snowpack has had time to settle opening up more backcountry terrain
(however July can be just as spectacular
if the snow falls early).
There is nothing for you to plan; BDS take care of everything from the moment your plane touches down until it takes off again!
Each day may vary depending on the local snow and weather conditions however no matter what; Black Diamond Safaris will make sure you get the best option on the day.
Skiing / boarding ability
To get the most out of the backcountry skiing adventure, you should be a "strong intermediate" or above skier. However BDS can customise a tour for your group if you are beginners as some of the club field have good beginner facilities.