FAMILY FUN
AT THE SKI FIELDS
Most of the country’s ski fields cater for families wanting a little fun in the snow. As with anything on the mountains, many of these activities are weather dependent — and if you can book any of them online in advance, do.
MT RUAPEHU
Kids can learn to ski at Ruapehu’s famous beginners’ facility, Happy Valley. Sledding is also available at both Whakapapa (in Happy Valley) and Tūroa (at Yeti’s Sliding Zone). Both areas are groomed for sledding, with families able to slide to the bottom of a carpet lift before riding back up. One-hour sledding passes (including sled hire) are available. There are limited spots though, so do book them early (through Guest Services at Tūroa and Happy Valley Rentals at Whakapapa). Weather permitting, the Sky Waka Gondola is also a way of getting in a little winter sightseeing. Your family can also enjoy snow play within a designated area.
mtruapehu.com CARDRONA
If you’ve previously dabbled with snow holidays with the kids and think you’re ready to take a bigger leap, several parents I spoke to rated Cardrona’s multiday programmes for kids. Skiwees (for skiers aged 5-14) and Lowriders (snowboarders aged 7-14) are four-day programmes, which include lessons with the same instructor and the same group of children. One mum said her kids loved the familiarity of the same group each day, made new friends, and really improved their skiing and snowboarding skills.
cardrona.com CORONET PEAK
Coronet Peak offers lessons for kids aged 5-17, but there’s also plenty for families not keen to get on the skis for their first visit. A dedicated snow play area is available for making snow angels, snowmen, and snowballs. Single and double toboggans can be hired on the mountain, while the Peak Gondola can also take non-skiers to Coronet Peak’s summit for winter wonderland views.
coronetpeak.co.nz THE REMARKABLES
Lessons are available for children aged 4-17. Families can also play in the snow and slide down the Remarkables on a toboggan — either bring your own or hire one for your visit.
theremarkables.co.nz MT HUTT
Lessons are available for children aged 5-17, while the whole family can also play in Mt Hutt’s dedicated snow play area. Either BYO toboggan or hire one from the Snow Shop. There’s also a chairlift ride to check out views of the Canterbury Plains (although this is limited to family members who are at least 80cm tall).