Windslab has been found across the eastern part of the park which appears unreactive.
We expect that at higher elevations closer to the divide the windslab may be more reactive.
Be cautious entering any steep terrain or convex features close to ridge crest or cross loaded features where you encounter stiff windslab
Windslab exits on may aspects. On the whole this appears to be unreactive to human loads - this reactivity may increase closer to the divide and the higher elevation you are at.Caution on steep ridgeline entries, convex rolls and cross loaded features if you find stiff wind pressed snow.
5/8 Several Natural windslabs up to size 2 were reported around the Tasman Neve on North West and South East aspects. We expect that these occurred sometime on the 4th during or just after the wind event.
Highly variable snow surface conditions exist across the park. Recent gale winds have stripped exposed ridge lines and pressed exposed slopes. On solar aspects a Melt stout freeze crust exists with evidence of near surface faceting developing beneath. On slopes directly lee to the recent Gale North West, South and South East winds significant windslab has formed which appears mostly stubborn to triggering.
In mid elevation sheltered or lower angle slopes 10 - 20cm of dappled powder can be found.
The lower pack is generally well settled.
Fine.
Wind at 1000 metres
Light.
Wind at 2000 metres
Light.
Wind at 3000 metres
Light.
Freezing level
1600 metres.
Ridgelines and exposed areas will be been scoured back to slick crusts or rock in places. Crampons and an ice axe are a good idea for general travel at this time
High
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
