The ski fields in the Southern Alps explode in the winter, with skiers coming from all over New Zealand to challenge Mt. Hutt. Canterbury’s slopes offer great runs, less glitz, and in some cases, lower rates than the tourist-heavy Southern Lakes; they attract more of a Kiwi than an international following.
Several companies, including some inevitable mid-season newcomers, shuttle the 1hr. drive from Christchurch; the best advice is to check at the Christchurch visitors center (☎379 9629; www.christchurchinformation.co.nz) for current departures. As a jumping-off point, Snowork Mountain Tours runs to all the club fields listed below from Christchurch. (☎0800 766 967 or 388 7669; www.snowork.com. Daily at 7:30am, return at 4pm. Return fare $45, student $35.) The Ski Shuttle runs regularly from Christchurch to Mt. Hutt and Porter Heights on demand. (☎324 3641. Round-trip $45, students $35.) Ride Snow Shuttles brings skiers to the slopes from Methven. (☎021 743 394 or 0800 121 414; www.ridesnowshuttles.co.nz.) Bring snow chains if you’re driving, and expect a long walk from the parking lot.
While none of these smaller mountains and their clubs are as popular as nearby Mt. Hutt , each has its own character and loyal following. Most club fields feature overnight accommodations with close proximity to the runs, and all but Mt. Hutt are only 30min. from the comfortable accommodations in Arthur’s Pass . Each of these clubs offers lessons and packages, but they do not rent equipment unless noted. Student rates mostly apply only to those with a New Zealand student ID. If you plan on skiing for a number of days or in a number of locations, you may want to consider the NZ Superpass or the Chill Pass. The NZ Superpass allows you to purchase a number of coupons, which can be used for lift passes on Queenstown, Mt. Hutt, and Canterbury ski fields or for other activities. The pass can be purchased through travel agents or at Mt. Hutt, Coronet Peak or the Remarkables. (☎443 4640; www.nzsuperpass.com. 2-day $148, children $75; 3-day $220/111; 4-day $287/147; 10-day $653/333.) The Chill Pass, valid at Porter Heights, Craigieburn Valley, Mt. Cheeseman, Mt. Olympus, Broken River, and Hanmer Springs in North Canterbury , is perfect for longer stays. (☎318 4830; www.chillout.co.nz. 3-day anytime pass $160, student $135, children $85; 5-day pass $235/185/120.) For detailed information on ski fields, check out www.nzski.com or www.snow.co.nz, or pick up the free annual Brown Bear guide (www.brownbear.co.nz) at the beginning of July.
The modest farming town of Methven (pop. 1400) swells each winter with skiers and snowboarders enjoying the longest ski season in New Zealand (up to 4 months, starting in June) on the slopes of the nearby ...more
The town of Arthur’s Pass (pop. 60) is surrounded by vast mountains of majestic natural beauty. The pass itself snakes through the towering Southern Alps, hiding ski fields and tramping trails. Several ...more
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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
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