A study of the top ski slope faux pas as voted by New Zealanders from SnowSeasonCentral (the global ski travel and job platform).
As Kiwis head to the snow , this survey yields insight into how snow-goers can avoid spoiling the trip for each other.
We surveyed over 2,000 New Zealanders who have skied at least twice on New Zealand slopes in the last 5 years. We asked them about slope etiquette, looking at behaviours such as not staying in control, not looking before merging, and skipping lines or pushing in lift queues.
Key findings:
● Of the people we surveyed, the most common ski slope violations in New Zealand are: skipping lines or pushing in lift queues (64%), not keeping a safe distance from other skiers (52%) and not respecting the environment (38%).
● Ways to respond to ski etiquette violations include: ignoring the behaviour (46%), politely communicating the rules to abusers (32%), recording the behaviour and sharing it on social media (11%).
There are many unspoken rules at New Zealand ski resorts, especially during peak season when the slopes are crowded with skiers and snowboarders.
The Ski Etiquette survey, commissioned by the global ski travel and job platform SnowSeasonCentral, surveyed over 2,000 New Zealanders who have skied at least twice on New Zealand slopes in the last 5 years. The survey asked respondents to rate behaviours such as safety and control, courtesy and respect, and environmental responsibility.
According to SnowSeasonCentral, the worst breach of ski etiquette is skipping lines or pushing in lift queues, according to 64 per cent of those surveyed.
Complete list of the top ten ski etiquette violations:
- Skipping lines or pushing in lift queues – 64%
- Not obeying signs and markings – 52%
- Not respecting the environment – 38%
- Not keeping a safe distance from other skiers – 25%
- Not looking before merging – 22%
- Going too fast – 20%
- Not staying in control – 19%
- Stopping in the middle of a slope inappropriately – 18%
- Smoking / vaping on the chairlift – 15%
- Not utilising available seats on chairlifts efficiently – 14%
When asked how to respond to ski etiquette violations, 46 per cent of respondents were in favour of “ignoring the behaviour”, a noble 32 per cent opted for “politely communicating the rules to abusers”, and 11 per cent of us appear to be keyboard warriors, believing the best approach is to “record the behaviour and share it on social media”.
According to the survey, the most effective ways to communicate ski etiquette rules to the public are: clear and concise signs with visuals (45 per cent), social media campaigns (28 per cent) and on-site educational programs (5 per cent).
Ed Raine, Director of Snow Season Central, says
“The survey results highlight the vibrant culture of the New Zealand skiing community and underscore the importance of responsible skiing practices. As we embrace the winter season, let’s remember to shred the slopes with respect for each other and the environment.”
To view ‘Ski Etiquette,’ visit: https://www.snowseasoncentral.com/ski-etiquette-new-zealand
https://www.snowseasoncentral.com/ski-etiquette-new-zealand
Methodology:
SnowSeasonCentral surveyed 2,011 NZ residents about their views on ski etiquette. This study was finalised in July 2024. Participants needed to have visited a New Zealand ski resort at least twice in the last 5 years. Of all respondents, 49% identified as male, and 51% identified as female.
About Snow Season Central
Snow Season Central is an online resource for ski resort information and job opportunities across the USA, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Australia and Europe. The platform helps hundreds of thousands of skiers make better travel and work plans by providing up to date resort information and employment opportunities.
