Wanaka — Avalanche Forecast

Avalanche danger in Wanaka (New Zealand) is 3 — Considerable, valid for Monday, September 28, 2026. Published by New Zealand Avalanche Advisory.

Valid for
Published:
Maximum Danger
3 · CONSIDERABLE
WanakaNZ-wanaka
3

Snow to low levels and strong to gale South West winds are forecast.  Wind Slab development is probable.  Be on the lookout for blowing snow and stay clear of areas where it is accumulating.                    

Danger by Elevation

Alpine3Considerable
Treeline2Moderate
Below treeline1Low

Active Avalanche Problems

Wind Slab
Wind Slab
Treeline and above
Size2/5
FrequencyLikely
StabilityPoor
Wet Snow
Wet Snow
Treeline and above
Size2/5
FrequencyPossible
StabilityFair
Glide Avalanche
Glide Avalanche
Treeline
Size2/5
FrequencyPossible
StabilityFair

Observations have been hampered over the past 24 hours by storm activity.  Wet slides (Loose Wet, Wet Slab and Glide) a few days ago. A skier accidentally triggered a size 1.5 Loose Wet slide on Friday (18/9) in the backcountry near Treble Cone. A cycle of  natural wet slides (size 1 and 1.5) occurred on Thursday and Friday as the day warmed up.       If you see evidence of avalanches in the back country please enter a Public Observation.   Sunday - snow overnight Saturday down to 400m. Snow showers easing during the morning. North West winds turning South West and rising to gale force at upper elevations. Freezing level - 1700m falling rapidly to 800m before dawn.  Spring conditions (melt/freeze) generally result in an elevated sliding hazard. Slick crusts and icy areas have been widespread especially, below about 1850m. Recommend carrying ski crampons and/or an ice axe and crampons.  

A mixture of rain and snow over the past 24 hours (15mm in the Albert Burn). The underlying snow pack above about 1800m is mostly well consolidated. The snow pack is likely to be holding a significant amount of moisture below about 1800m. Prior to the most recent storm a typical Spring melt/freeze cycle was occurring.           

Source: New Zealand Avalanche Advisory · View Original Bulletin

Original (EN)

Frequently asked questions

What does avalanche danger level 3 (Considerable) mean?

Dangerous avalanche conditions — a single person can trigger avalanches on many steep slopes; cautious route selection is essential.

How often is the Wanaka forecast updated?

Avycast refreshes hourly; the bulletin is republished by New Zealand Avalanche Advisory usually once a day during the season.

Who publishes the Wanaka avalanche forecast?

New Zealand Avalanche Advisory — the official warning service. Avycast aggregates and translates it; always check the original bulletin.

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