REGIONS: CANTERBURY
Christchurch is the gateway to skiing in the Canterbury region, an area extending from Kaikoura in the North to Glenavy in the South and all the way to the snow-capped mountains and NZ highest mountain, Mt Cook to the west. It is along the western borders of the Canterbury region that you will find the most ski fields within the country. The region itself is one of stark contrast, from the famous Canterbury plains with clear lakes and beautiful river ways, through the soaring mountains of the Southern Alps.
One of the unique aspects of skiing in the Canterbury region are the club fields. What makes these so different it that it’s a little like going back in time. The vibe is unique and a world away from that of most commercial ski areas. There are 6 club fields in the Canterbury region; Mt Olympus, Broken River, Cheeseman, Craigieburn, Temple Basin and Hamner Springs. All offer great skiing, with old school access (rope tows, pomas and t bars) but this has not stopped them drawing skiers and boarder from around the world.
The nearest commercial ski field to Christchurch is Porters, which originally operated as a club field. It has 240 hectares of skiable terrain and some easily accessed out of bounds bowls that can provide an extended playground.
Mt Hutt, 100km to the west of Christchurch and 35-minutes’ drive from the quaint town of Methven, is possibly the most well-known in the region. With 365 hectares of skiable area, the wide-open terrain and spectacular views have helped see Mt Hutt voted NZ’s best ski resort for four years running at the World Ski Awards.
Towards the southernmost part of Canterbury near Lake Tekapo, you’ll find the Dobson Mountains, of which there are two ski fields operating, Mt Dobson (400 hectares) and Roundhill (550 hectares). The southern most ski field in Canterbury is Lake Ohau (125 hectares).
Lake Ohau, although rather small, rarely has any crowds and is somewhat of a hidden gem. The views are incredible, and the vibe relaxed. The mountain caters for all abilities and there are plenty of great hiking options for the more adventurous.
Mt Dobson offers a great balance of groomed trails for all abilities and off piste options for the more adventurous; 25% beginner, 50% intermediate, 25% advanced. The atmosphere is relaxed and the runs wide and open.
Roundhill Ski Area is situated in the heart of the Mackenzie Country and boasts views on some of New Zealand’s most iconic landmarks. See Aoraki Mt Cook towering above the Southern Alps while the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo provide an amazing backdrop to your day on the snow.
After a scenic 35 minute drive you arrive at Roundhill and park slope side. The ticket office, café and rental department are all located at the top of the car park. At Roundhill all trails lead back to the base area so once the kids are underway grab an espresso, bask in the sun and watch them tear up the slopes while you get yourself ready to hit the snow. Families love the relaxed friendly atmosphere at Roundhill.
They have a fantastic beginner’s area with wide gentle runs and plenty of space. Their super wide undulating intermediate trails are just the right pitch to be exciting but not intimidating. Central Park has features including rails and jumps designed for beginner to intermediate freestylers. For the adventurous they have…. Australasia’s Highest Vertical! Ride the Heritage Express Rope Tow to an elevation of 2133m and experience a whopping 783m of vertical! The Heritage Express accesses wide open spaces, natural half pipes, chutes and some seriously steep terrain.
Their international, qualified instructors are friendly, helpful and knowledgeable – they provide expert tuition for beginner through to advanced skiers and snowboarders. Their kid’s group lessons are perfect for the young ones to learn the basics or hone their skills with other children in a safe and fun environment. For the ultimate in tuition try a private lesson.
With over 350 sets of ski and snowboard equipment for all ages their friendly staff will ensure you have the right gear for your needs. Our skis are from Rossignol and Salomon and our boards are from Burton. Save time by using our multiday hire option.
Their Café has expansive views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. There is ample seating both indoors & outdoors and you can choose from a range of healthy food and beverage options.
The “von Brown” is a quaint wee refreshment hut situated near the top T1 T-Bar. Relax in a deck chair, take in the scenery and share a yarn with the locals. (Open subject to availability).
With a number of fun events scheduled over the winter weekends, please see Roundhill. co.nz or check them out on Facebook for more information.