Winter may be ending in the northern hemisphere, but in places like New Zealand, it's just getting started. Ski resorts on New Zealand's South Island are opening earlier than planned this year, thanks to some early-season snowfall. If you're itching for some powder in August, it's not too late to book your trip to NZ [...]

The snowy hills above Wanaka, NZ. Photo by Erin Thiem

Hot dogs, beer, picnic basket, fireworks? My fourth of July check list included: skis, helmets, poles, gloves. Welcome to Independence Day in New Zealand! We celebrated the 4th by dusting off the skis and braving the cold southern alps temperatures.