Young skiers and snow­boarders will descend on The Remarkables on Saturday for the first freestyle competition of the season.

The first round of the K2 Parklife Mini Shred is open to competitors of all abilities aged 15 and under at the Beginner Park, with registrations at the base building from 9am-10am.

The competition has three categories – under-16, under-14 and under-12 for male and female skiers and boarders.

It’s free and there’s a range of super prizes up for grabs – but there’s a $20 refundable bib deposit on the day. Helmets are compulsory.

“This is great for youngsters because they get a taste of competition in a non-intimidating and supportive environment,” says NZSki marketing boss David Ovendale.

“But they also have things that the older kids get at competitions, like music and a DJ, which make for a great atmosphere.”

Now in its fourth year, the second and final round of the Mini Shred also takes place at The Remarkables on September 20.

Area ski manager Ross Lawrence adds: “The Remarkables is home to some of the best terrain parks in the country so it’s the ideal place to learn and improve your freestyling skills.”