Nico Porteous: The Season That Was:

For Kiwi freeskiing sensation Nico Porteous, the 2024-25 season has been one for the books. From deep powder days in Japan to mentoring the next generation of New Zealand ski talent, the Olympic gold medallist has been at the heart of the action. Currently in Innsbruck, Austria, Porteous continues to push boundaries on and off the slopes while balancing the demands of back-to-back winters. Here’s what he said about his season—the highs, the lows, and what’s next.

Japan Delivers the Goods
“This season has been a blast!” Porteous says, his excitement palpable. “A massive highlight for me was getting to spend time in Japan. At the start of the season, I spent two weeks in Myoko, riding some of the best snow of my life with friends.”

Japan’s legendary snowfall didn’t disappoint. After a dream start in Myoko, Porteous was invited back for a second two-week stint, filming with Matchstick Productions (MSP). “We once again scored the most insane conditions—waking up to 30cm of fresh snow for ten days straight,” he recalls. For any skier, that’s a fairytale scenario, and for an athlete of Porteous’ calibre, it was the perfect canvas to showcase his skill.

Nico Porteous performs near Wanaka, New Zealand, August 2nd, 2024. // Miles Holden / Red Bull Content Pool

Challenges in Europe
Despite the dream runs in Japan, the European season hasn’t been quite as smooth. “I’m currently based in Innsbruck, Austria, and unfortunately, the snow conditions in Europe this season have been a bit tricky,” he admits. “We’ve had long sunny periods and not many storms.”
But for someone as adaptable as Porteous, the lack of fresh powder hasn’t meant a wasted season. “I’ve been able to make things work, spending time in the French Alps and enjoying plenty of soft, slushy park days around Innsbruck.” While not ideal, it’s a reminder that even at the top of the game, athletes must be flexible and make the most of the conditions they’re dealt.

Nico Porteous performs near Wanaka, New Zealand, August 2nd, 2024. // Miles Holden / Red Bull Content Pool

Kiwi Skiing on the Rise
Porteous isn’t just focused on his own progression—he’s got a keen eye on the next generation of Kiwi skiers. With young guns like Luca Harrington and Rocco Jamieson making waves, the future of New Zealand freeskiing looks bright.
“New Zealand is on a roll this season! It’s so sick to watch everyone’s success,” Porteous says. “I think what I attribute it to is their drive and work ethic. Luca, Finlay, Rocco, and Cam are all incredibly talented, but what really sets them apart is their passion for riding and how hard they work to achieve their goals. It’s been absolutely insane to watch them rise through the ranks, and now two out of four are World Champions! Insane.”
Luca, in particular, credited Porteous as a mentor in his own interview, a testament to the influence Porteous has had on New Zealand’s growing dominance in the sport.

Nico Porteous performs near Wanaka, New Zealand, August 2nd, 2024. // Miles Holden / Red Bull Content Pool /

The rest of the feature can be read in the digital version of Ski & Snow 2025

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