Mt Hutt
Ski Canterbury
When the temperature drops, Canterbury's peaks become a winter playground – with more ski areas than anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere.
From family friendly fields to off-piste exhilaration, our region caters to anyone looking for snow-fuelled fun and adventure. When you're planning your adventures on the slopes, remember to factor in some time to experience the après ski scene.
Mt Hutt & Mid Canterbury
Canterbury's largest ski area, Mt Hutt, is just 90 minutes' drive from Christchurch. Whether beginner or top of your game, you'll be right at home here, with a world-class snow school and 5 terrain parks.
If off-piste trails are calling your name, take a chopper ride up to epic terrain with Methven Heliski, opening up freeriding across 3 mountain ranges.
When the sun goes down, Methven Village at the base of Mt Hutt is the place to go for après snow fun and relaxation. Warm up and revive with some great Kiwi hospitality at some of the bars, restaurants and places to stay in this lively township.
Aoraki/Mount Cook Mackenzie
There's a great snow holiday to be had by basing yourself in the beautiful Aoraki/Mount Cook region, or Lake Tekapo, a leisurely 3 hour drive from Christchurch.
Nearby, ski or board Mount Dobson, and enjoy the spectacular vista from one of the country's highest ski areas at 1,725m.
Roundhill is great for first timers, with fabulous beginner and intermediate runs, and the picturesque Ohau Snow Fields cater for all abilities.
Fox Peak offers high altitude adventure, and for off-piste adrenaline junkies, ski on the Tasman Glacier in the stunning UNESCO Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage area.
When you're done with snow, thaw out, unwind and enjoy the view at Tekapo Springs Hot Pools.
Selwyn
Ski Selwyn – six superb ski areas that offer both commercial and unique club field experiences. Selwyn’s hidden gems are right on Christchurch's doorstep, only 90 minutes away.
Porters Alpine Resort - just 99km from the city - is a local favourite, popular for its commercial field and mountain facilities for both families and advanced skiers.
Mt. Cheeseman is a club field well known for its family friendly fun and relaxed culture, perfect for beginners and intermediates. While the raw alpine environment of Temple Basin is praised worldwide for its unique atmosphere and terrain; suitable for those with an adventurous spirit who seek a ski experience outside the norm.
Escape from the worries of the daily grind to Mount Olympus; a powder paradise for the backcountry adventurer. Stay at the cosy lodge, and soak in the popular hot tub after a hard day on the slopes.
Known for its reliable ski conditions, with uncrowded powder basins and chutes, the passionate ski club of Broken River is your pick.
Craigieburn is a holy grail for the advanced or expert rider, with some of New Zealand’s easiest access advanced off-piste skiing.
Hanmer Springs & Hurunui
20km from Hanmer Springs township lies Hanmer Springs Ski Area, great for beginner and intermediate skiers and boarders. Relax after a day up the mountain with a soak in Hanmer's thermal pools or a massage at one of the town's spas.
Check out nearby Mount Lyford Alpine Resort, with chalet-style accommodation. Here, you're just 45km from Kaikōura, so you can ski and surf in the same day!
