Mackenzie Country, New Zealand Report: Wind-Whipped To Fiery, Then Flooding...While Nuking

*Hang on, Mackenzie Country. It’s gnarly out there!*

Report from September 22, 2023

Far out, totally gnarly (& kinda dangerous) weather. As a result, there’s been zero shredding going on.

If we left it there, that would say it all for the Mackenzie this past couple days.

It started with gales to rip down power poles, actually a dozen of ’em.

Later that night; flames, and a whole lotta worry for everybody for about 24 hours. There’s unhappy history with bushfire in the Mackenzie and surrounds. And knock-ya-down wind is a major instigator. But New Zealand’s got two Aces up its sleeve when it comes to weather. First, an absolutely stand-up crew of professionals to answer the call. The second, a constant of change.

*A whole lotta rain…and nose-diving temps. Photo: P.M.Fadden*

A truly ruff patch was followed (thankfully) by a whole heap of rain, a cold front, and—wouldn’t you know it—snow. And snow. And more snow.

*‘Limited’ describes the extent of the visibility in the Mackenzie at the moment. Photo: P.M.Fadden*

High Country living in the stunning Mackenzie holds no shortage of challenges–or surprises. And those of the past couple of days have been classic examples of both.

And now there’s powder skiing to look forward to…