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Is it worth a season in NZ?
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Karma: 41
I Like the idea of going to do a season in NZ with my girlfriend and had a few questions, the amount of money we have is likely to be pretty low after flights from the UK/buying a season pass so was wondering.
How hard is it to get a job on a mountain? I mean i’ll literally do anything? Will the pay be enough to live off/have accommodation in a mountain town
What is it like for 2nd hand skis, probably wouldn’t bring mine with me and would buy there or is this going to be too expensive/unrealistic?
What are general living costs like? and alcohol costs?
How much do rental places cost/can you link a website that could be of more help, like a local estate agent or something?
Thx in advance
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Karma: 477
If you want to lose every asset you have then don't bother, if you are after adventure and exploring and not staying in the same small town and actually doing the whole country then I say yes. You probably won't get enough hours with how varied the snow is and weather conditions they are very hit in miss every season if you plan to work on the hill. It is the experience not the cost, jobs are pretty easy to find if you have a few references
Usually your going to look at getting a second hand pair they are pretty easy to find for $500 for a complete set up. Boots are a prick in this country so make sure you bring ones already fitted. General living costs if you have a girlfriend that is entirely up to you unless your a swole dutch back packer ready to lay down some hammers.
Alcohol is relatively expensive, binge drinking before going out for a mission is the best bet. Ski passes are cheap as chips, I could help out with accommodation in the North Island around Mt Ruapehu
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I have done 5 seasons down in Wanaka and really enjoyed every one of them.
Jobs at the mountains are pretty competitive but pay the bills.
Coming from the US the price of ski gear is really high. I always bring out everything. There is used stuff available but to me it seems quite expensive. I can often find it new in the US for less then people are selling it. If you don't mind some older more run down gear its probably not an issue.
The cost of living is high with alcohol and food being quite expensive. Season passes are very expensive if you don't get them early.
In Wanaka a single room is usually around $150 pw and a double $200. Usually not too hard to find a room once you get there.
NZ is definitely expensive but I always manage to cover my plane tickets. Its an amazing place with lots of great people. There is a reason I keep going back.
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Hell yeah its worth it. US guy here. If you want to work you need a work visa and you will probably have to have proof of something like $350 nzd per montb you intend to stay . i think being from the uk you can get a 2 year work holiday visa.
Jobs can be tough. Lots of international people trying for them and lots of people show up without having them.met some people that were leaving becuase they couldnt find work. It didnt seem THAT terrible though but definately apply early and have backups.
Ski gear is insanely priced. Not sure uk pricing but nz is like 3 times the price of usa on lots of gear. Shit nutty. Might be cheaper to buy a flight bag for your stuff.
I didnt think accomodations were that unreasonably priced.
Idk i had a great time and hope to go back.
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