episode Thirteen
Episode 13 – Will Jackways: Snowboarding Royalty from Wanaka
From New Zealand to Japan, Alaska, and beyond — Will Jackways has carved out a snowboarding journey like no other.
In this episode of Only Friends on a Pow Day, Austin sits down with New Zealand snowboard legend Will Jackways. Growing up in Wanaka, Will swapped rugby for snowboarding, quickly making a name for himself in competitions before transitioning into filming, travel, and freeriding.
They discuss his time with Burton and Volcom, memorable trips around the globe, and the pull of Japan’s deep powder. Will also opens up about the loss of his sister Francie, and how family, community, and balance have shaped his life beyond professional snowboarding.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro
1:06 – Meeting Will Jackways
2:59 – First days snowboarding
8:17 – Halfpipe beginnings
11:39 – Competitions & Nationals
13:37 – Junior Worlds and early sponsorships
19:52 – Burton & Volcom years
22:17 – Japan seasons & freeriding
26:00 – Remembering Francie Jackaways
31:51 – Filming, travel, & industry changes
38:26 – Family life & business in Wanaka
41:56 – Travel dreams & future goals
43:27 – Closing thoughts
#Snowboarding #NewZealand #Wanaka #WillJackways
