When venturing out into back country, there are no safety measures in place, and if you are unprepared, you are putting your life in danger, Mr Smith said.
Anyone planning such a trip should carry an avalanche probe, avalanche transceiver and shovel and know how to use them correctly, he said. This equipment greatly increased chances of rescue should an emergency occur.
Police also advise people to travel with someone else, as the gear is of no use for lone travellers.
Police also strongly recommend checking the NZ Avalanche Advisory website and talking to ski patrols about the conditions before heading out.
"Going out without up-to-date information and proper equipment is a recipe for disaster," Mr Smith said.
"This is especially true in areas like Mt Ruapehu, which experience extreme conditions and a changing landscape due to the elements."