Tai Poutini Polytechnic-Mountain Education Centre of New Zealand

Campus / Location

The Mountain Education Centre of New Zealand (MECNZ) is a division of Tai Poutini Polytechnic based at Wanaka, home of the Ski Patrol Programme and short courses in ski tuning and snowblasting training.

Training in the practical elements of the Ski Patrol programme takes place at the Treble Cone ski area, only 40 minutes drive from Wanaka.

A unique "on snow" classroom in the middle of the Treble Cone Ski Area provides the best possible training environment for those seeking a career in ski patrolling.

20 Minutes drive from Wanaka there is extensive rock climbing available. A range of mountaineering areas are also easily accessible from Wanaka.

Treble Cone
One of New Zealand's premier ski and snowboarding destinations, Treble Cone offers awesome terrain for all abilites, fast lifts, reliable snow and the most uncrowded slopes in the Southern Lakes area. Covering 550 hectares,

Treble Cone has more skiable terrain than any other ski or snowboard area in the South Island of New Zealand. With the largest vertical rise in the Southern Lakes and spectacular views over Lake Wanaka and Mt Aspiring, Treble Cone can claim some of the most exhilirating runs in the country.

One of Treble Cone's best features is the southern hemisphere's only high speed, detachable, six-seater chairlift. It has has an extensive modern snowmaking system.

This ensures maximum "on-snow" training time. Treble Cone also has large areas of avalanche terrain, making for an ideal learning environment.