Hanmer Springs is most famous for its hot pools, but it also offers great skiing just two hours from Christchurch.
The Hanmer Springs Ski Area is a club field that’s known for its friendly and welcoming vibe – its motto is ‘the small club field with a big heart’ - but also offers outstanding terrain for all your mountain adventures.
It has a groomed learners’ area to get you started with a 60m easy-to-use fixed grip tow. For intermediate and advanced riders, there’s the poma – the longest in the Southern Hemisphere – which accesses natural and groomed riding.
Read more for the latest season info on skiing and snowboarding in New Zealand
On-field instruction is available and you can hire boards and skis in Hanmer Springs before heading up the hill. Robinson Lodge, the field’s self-catered on-site accommodation, has four family rooms and four bunkrooms, with incredible views out onto the inland Kaikōura Range. A daily shuttle runs up to the field from Hanmer Springs, which has a range of accommodation options.
Quick Facts
- Where 20km from Hanmer Springs, 155km from Christchurch
- Ski & board Groomed trails and off-piste cruising
- Season July – September
- Access road 20km unsealed, carry chains
- Ratings Beginner 10%, intermediate 60%, advanced 30%
Essentials
- Highest point 1769m
- Vertical 310m
- Skiable Area 52ha
- Lifts Poma (807m), rope tow, fixed grip learners’ tow
- On-field ski/snowboard hire No
- Tuition Yes
- Lift passes $65 adults, $35 kids, discounts for members, students and family groups, under 10s free
- Package deals Accommodation and beginner packages available
- On-field accommodation Yes