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Skiing In New Zealand
Christchurch: Ski guide and accommodation 2020
Thinking of exploring the famed South Island peaks? Here are the best Christchurch ski area accommodation options.
When the temperature drops, the mountains of Canterbury become the perfect winter playground. With up to 13 ski areas within two to four hours’ drive from Christchurch, snow sport enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice.
Mount Hutt is the biggest commercial ski field in Canterbury and boasts the longest ski season in New Zealand, while Porters ski area is a local favourite and is popular with families.
Best accommodation options for Christchurch ski areas
Mt Hutt accommodation
Terrace Downs Resort from Finder Hotels
With breathtaking views of the Canterbury Planes Region, you'll be surrounded by picturesque mountains and greenery. There is a variety of activities located around Terrace Downs Resort, so it's an ideal place for adventurers to reside while visiting Christchurch.
Ski Time Lodge from Finder Hotels
A 4-star accommodation option offering self-contained apartments and private rooms located in close proximity to a variety of restaurants, Mount Hutt and Methven Gold Course.
Mt Hutt Lodge from Finder Hotels
Boasting scenic views from the rooms, Mt Hutt Lodge is a quiet and comfortable motel that has water sport activities and a ski school, perfect for every season.
Porters accommodation
Panorama Court Apartments from Finder Hotels
Panorama Court is located at the base of Roys Peak, conveniently situated near Wanaka's sightseeing attractions and just a 40-minute drive from Cardrona Ski Field and Treble Cone. Each room has views of the Southern Alps, too. Pack your bags and get ready to enjoy the pristine surroundings of Wanaka.
Wanaka Luxury Apartments from Finder Hotels
Get cosy this snow season while sitting in front of the fireplace and enjoying floor heating at the 5-star Wanaka Luxury Apartments. These self-contained apartments reside just 500 metres from Lake Wanaka and the closest snow fields are less than a 45-minute drive away. You can find all of your skiing needs at the resort with ski storage and ski equipment hire facilities available on site.
Base Wanaka from Finder Hotels
A modern hostel located in the centre of town close to Lake Wanaka, restaurants, shops and bars. The newly refurbished reception area is a great place to hang out and meet new people after a day on the slopes. Choose between a shared dormitory room or a private room while staying at Base Wanaka.
Wanaka Edge Apartments from Finder Hotels
A quiet place to stay, located just a 15-minute walk from the centre of town. Small families and groups will find Wanaka Edge Apartments to be a haven to rest and enjoy the outdoor dining area.
Wanaka Homestead Lodge and Cottages from Finder Hotels
Guests have the choice of staying in B&B accommodation or self-catering cottages. Either way, you will be greeted by a welcoming host and a spacious room.
Distinction Wanaka Serviced Apartments from Finder Hotels
Take in the panoramic mountain views and enjoy the short walk to the town centre from Distinction Wanaka Service Apartments. That's if you can find time between the skiing/snowboarding and outdoor adventures.
Craigieburn, Mt Olympus and Mt Cheeseman accommodation
Grasmere Lodge from Finder Hotels
Enjoy 360-degree views of the mountains from Grasmere Lodge close to Arthur's Pass. There is plenty to do at the lodge but we suggest you get out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer.
Arthur's Pass Alpine Motel from Finder Hotels
Just a few steps away from Arthur's Pass National Park, the motel is located close to various hiking trails that give you access to views of the Southern Alps. It doesn't get much better than that!
Bealey Hotel from Finder Hotels
A perfect spot to stay if you plan to hit the slopes frequently while you're in Christchurch. Choose from five different ski fields within a 30-minute drive from the hotel.
Temple Basin accommodation
Wilderness Lodge Arthur's Pass from Finder Hotels
Sit back and enjoy the stylish accommodation offered at Wilderness Lodge with charming boutique lodges and views that boast tranquility. There's no doubt you'll feel at home here.
Arthurs Chalet from Finder Hotels
The location for Arthur's Chalet is perfect for those who love the outdoors and adventure. Prefer the more cosy vibe? You'll find that here, too.
Mountain House Arthur's Pass from Finder Hotels
The Mountain House is located in a prime location offering mountain views of Arthur's Pass National Park. Guests have a choice of staying in a shared dormitory, twin room or family room.
How far is each area from Christchurch?
- Mt Hutt: 1 hour 30 minutes drive (115km)
- Porters: 1 hour 50 minutes drive (99km)
- Craigieburn: 1 hour 45 minutes drive (104km)
- Mt Cheeseman: 1 hour 50 minutes drive (112km)
- Mt Olympus: 2 hours drive (134km)
- Temple Basin: 1 hour 50 minutes drive (135km)
Lift pass prices
There are many ski fields you can access in the Christchurch area. Below, we have listed the starting prices for two of the much-loved ski fields that are great for first-time skiers/snowboarders.
Mt Hutt lift pass starting prices
Children under the age of 11 are free of charge.
| Pass type | 1 day | 2 days | 3 days | 4 days | 5 days | 6 days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child (11-17) | $60 | $100 | $147 | $192 | $225 | $270 |
| Adult | $120 | $190 | $282 | $372 | $450 | $540 |
Porters lift pass starting prices
Children aged 10 and under as well as people aged over 75 are free of charge.
| Pass type | Weekend lift pass | Weekday lift pass | Weekend afternoon lift pass | Beginners lift pass |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Youth/ 65+ | $69 | $49 | $49 | $39 |
| Student | $99 | $69 | $69 | $59 |
| Adult | $99 | $79 | $79 | $59 |
What you need to know about Mt Hutt
- Number of chair lifts: 3
- Ski season dates: 7 June 2019 - 13 October 2019
- Snow report: Check the daily Snow Report for a detailed and accurate look at recent snowfalls and conditions
- Trail breakdown: 20% beginner, 20% intermediate, 40% advanced and 20% expert
- Number of terrain parks: 3
- Longest run: 2km
- Skiable terrain: 365 hectares
Image: Mt Hutt
What you need to know about Porters
- Number of chair lifts: 1
- Ski season dates: Opening 21 June 2019
- Snow report: Check the daily Snow Report for a detailed and accurate look at recent snowfalls and conditions
- Trail breakdown: 30% beginner, 30% intermediate and 40% advanced
- Number of terrain parks: 1
- Longest run: 2km
- Skiable terrain: 230 hectares
Image: Porters
What you need to know about Craigieburn
- Number of chair lifts: 3
- Ski season dates: 7 July 2019 - 1 October
- Snow report: Check the daily Snow Report for a detailed and accurate look at recent snowfalls and conditions
- Trail breakdown: 5% beginner, 40% intermediate and 55% advanced
- Number of terrain parks: 0
- Longest run: 2km
- Skiable terrain: 400 hectares
Image: Craigieburn
What you need to know about Mt Cheeseman
- Number of chair lifts: 14
- Ski season dates: Opening 6 July
- Snow report: Check the daily Snow Report for a detailed and accurate look at recent snowfalls and conditions
- Trail breakdown: 15% beginner, 50% intermediate and 35% advanced
- Number of terrain parks: 1
- Longest run: 2km
- Skiable terrain: 320 hectares
Image: Mt Cheeseman
What you need to know about Mt Olympus
- Number of chair lifts: 1
- Ski season dates: 8 July 2019 - 7 October 2019
- Snow report: Check the daily Snow Report for a detailed and accurate look at recent snowfalls and conditions
- Trail breakdown: 10% beginner, 55% intermediate and 35% advanced
- Number of terrain parks: 0
- Longest run: 2.6km
- Skiable terrain: 450 hectares
Images: Mt Olympus
What you need to know about Temple Basin
- Number of chair lifts: 3
- Ski season dates: TBC for 2019
- Snow report: Check the daily Snow Report for a detailed and accurate look at recent snowfalls and conditions
- Trail breakdown: 16% beginner, 67% intermediate and 17% advanced
- Number of terrain parks: 0
- Longest run: 14km
- Skiable terrain: 430 hectares
How do I get to Christchurch and the ski fields?
You can fly directly to Christchurch from Australia via Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia, Emirates, Qantas and Jetstar here.
Depending on where you're staying, you may have access to ski buses that will take you to and from the ski fields. If you plan to use the ski shuttle service, it is best to stay close to the town centre. Pre-booking is likely required, so it is best to speak to reception at your accommodation to find out the most efficient way for you to reach the slopes. You can hire a car in Christchurch at multiple locations but picking it up from the airport will allow you to get your bearings around the city. We recommend you pre-purchase seating on a shuttle bus to your designated ski field and take in the views along the way.
Ski schools available in Christchurch
All of the ski fields mentioned have ski schools available for you to expand your skills and grow your confidence on the slopes. Porters offers the widest range of programs, with group and private lessons available for children and adults.
Porters private lessons
| Lesson options | Price per person |
|---|---|
| Early/late lesson (9am or 3pm) | $89 |
| 1-hour lesson | $109 |
| 2-hour lesson | $199 |
| 3-hour lesson | $259 |
| Day lesson (5 hours) | $349 |
| 5x 1-hour lessons | $379 |
Porters group lessons
| Program | Who can participate? | Who would benefit from the lesson? |
|---|---|---|
| Kids Camp | Kids aged between three and five | Children who have never skied before but want to learn the basics and grow in confidence |
| First Timers | Anyone | People who have never skied or snowboarded before |
| Beginner/ Intermediate | Anyone | People who have the ability to make round wedge turns to control speed and stop but want to progress their skill set |
Equipment hire
Renting ski equipment, outerwear and accessories is easy at Christchurch Canterbury. These retailers offer some of the biggest brand names in sport at affordable prices.
- Snow Mania: Ski and snowboard equipment, clothing and accessories for men, women and children. Check out their discounted skis, demo and secondhand items for purchase. 4 Dalgety Street, Christchurch
- Gnomes Alpine Sports: Ski and snowboard hire, outerwear and other accessories such as snow chains, avalanche kits and rope tow packs. Save 10% when you book your ski hire online. 57 South Terrace, Darfield, Canterbury
- McEwings Ski and Snowboard Hire: Ski, snowboard, clothing and accessories hire. McEwings also provides daily door-to-door transport from within Christchurch Canterbury to all the major ski areas. 200 Yaldhurst Road, Christchurch
Importance of travel insurance
It is a great idea to take out ski travel insurance as a precaution on your ski/snowboarding trip. If you have an accident while skiing or snowboarding, your belongings are stolen or you become ill on the trip, ski insurance may cover you.
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