The region recorded the highest number of ACC claims for injuries on skifields last season.
Otago skiers made 4117 injury claims in 2025, costing the taxpayer $13.6 million to help people recover; and a further 3051 snowboarding claims were accepted, costing $6.05m.
In total, 7168 skiing and snowboarding injury claims were accepted in the Otago region, which came at a combined cost of $19.65m to help people recover.
The number of injury claims was more than three times higher than the next highest region — Canterbury — which had 2384 skiing and snowboarding-related injuries.
Given it is the school holidays and many families spend that time together on the slopes, ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker encouraged people to ease into the season and know their limits so they could enjoy the whole season.
‘‘Winter is one of the best times of the year for many New Zealanders.
‘‘Hitting the slopes with friends and family is one of the most wonderful things you can do in New Zealand.’’
But it was not to be taken for granted, he said.
‘‘If we get injured on the slopes, it can significantly affect our lives, as well as the lives of our friends, family and workmates.’’
Nationwide, the ACC accepted 8309 skiing injury claims last season, costing $32m to help people recover, and 5425 snowboarding injury claims were also accepted, costing $14m.
‘‘This was the highest number and the highest cost of these injury claims for the past five years.’’
Mr Whitaker said most of the injuries were predictable, and therefore, preventable.
He said a simple way to reduce injury risk was to pause and think before taking on a run, especially early in the season when people might not yet have their ski legs back.
‘‘It’s natural to be excited when you get back on the mountain, but the first day back is not the time to test your limits.
‘‘Do a dynamic warm-up, start with an easier run, build up gradually and be honest about your ability, your fitness and the conditions.
‘‘Taking a moment to think about the risk can help you make good decisions and avoid an injury that could sideline you for weeks or months.’’
He said even experienced skiers and snowboarders could be caught out by fatigue, changing weather, crowded slopes or pushing too hard too early.
‘‘Fatigue can affect your balance, reaction time and decision-making, especially later in the afternoon,’’ he said.
‘‘Know your limits, look after your body and ease into the season.
‘‘A good day on the snow is one you can enjoy from the first run to the last — and then do it all again next weekend.’’
