Mt Potts and the surrounding terrain is a backcountry ski area. Backcountry terrain is not controlled for avalanche hazards.  There is no Ski Patrol or other safety net. Rescue can take some time so be prepared. The backcountry and mountains can be a dangerous place regardless of your skills and experience.  Weather, snow conditions and steep terrain can combine to make the mountains a treacherous place (or an absolute joy).  Please ensure you, or someone in your party, have the required snow safety skills and experience to assess avalanche conditions.  If no one in your party has the necessary skills and experience, then find someone who has or hire a guide to go with you.  Every member of your party must carry an avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe and know how to use them. We also strongly encourage you to have at least 2 Personal Locator Beacons (or other satellite comms) per party.  While the location of Erewhon Hut is ‘low risk’, it is located in complex avalanche terrain (based on the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale). Getting to and from the hut can be high risk depending on snow conditions. If you are not sure - talk to a guide or don’t go.

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Please refer to the Canterbury Backcountry Avalanche Report www.avalanche.net.nz for up to date information.

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Some of the key HAZARDS include:

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Mountain Terrain - mountainous areas with steep slopes in their natural state have many obstacles and extreme hazards, may not have been climbed or skied before, are not patrolled or regularly examined, and communication may be difficult and rescue and medical treatment may not be available. Terrain includes exposure to multiple, overlapping avalanche paths or large expanses of steep, open terrain; multiple avalanche starting zones and terrain traps below; and minimal options to reduce exposure. Understand the risks - make sure you understand the risks inherent in moving in mountain terrain. If you are not experienced take a mountain guide with you.  Wear a helmet.  Ski in control. Carry a Personal Locator Beacon or other satellite communication.

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Avalanches - may frequently occur in mountainous terrain and may be caused by natural forces including steepness of the slopes, snow depth, instability of the snow pack, changing weather conditions or by other climbers or skiers, or helicopter.  ‘Low risk’ does not mean ‘no risk’.  Understand the risks - even the most experienced backcountry skier can misjudge conditions and trigger an avalanche.  Assess the avalanche danger and make conservative decisions.  If in doubt, don’t go!

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Weather - weather conditions may be extreme and change rapidly without warning including high/extreme winds, snow, rain and cold temperatures.  Understand the risks - carry extra gear to safeguard against unexpected changes in the weather.  Check the weather forecast.