Snow

Located in the heart of the South Island, just 2.5 hours drive between Christchurch and Queenstown, the Mackenzie Region transforms into a winter playground over the cooler months. Whether you’re after an action-packed ski and snowboard holiday, or a relaxing place to get away, the Mackenzie Region has it all!

Take in the stunning surroundings and skip the lift queues. The Mackenzie boasts three quintessentially-Kiwi ski fields all within driving distance of each other. Spectacular scenery, spacious runs and laid back, family-friendly vibes create the ultimate snow holiday.

Located between Fairlie and Lake Tekapo, Mount Dobson is renowned for its natural dry powder snow, trails for all abilities and a huge learners area with all-day sun and wide-open uncrowded runs.

On the doorstep of Lake Tekapo, Roundhill offers jaw-dropping views of the lake, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and the Southern Alps. The family-friendly field offers a larger beginners area with wide gentle slopes. The more adventurous skiier will love Australiasia’s biggest vertical drop (783m).

Just a short drive from Twizel, Ōhau boasts stunning views up the valley of Aoraki/Mount Cook and over Lake Ōhau. The mountain caters for all abilities with wide flat slopes for intermediates to some more adventurous terrain at the top. Make sure to stop off at the popular lodge at the bottom – it’s Kiwi skiing at its best!

There’s never been a better time to try something new. The Mackenzie is home to a number of ‘must do’ guided ski experiences on natural snow, with many catering for the intermediated skier and beyond.

Enjoy New Zealand’s largest glacier and longest ski run as you discover ice caves and incredible ice formations. 8-10km of intermediate (green – blue) terrain.

Book your skiing or snowboarding adventure with the following:

• Alpine Recreation
• Helicopter Line
• Mount Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters
• Ski the Tasman
• Tasman Glacier Skiing

New Zealand’s largest heli ski area lies in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. With runs to suit all abilities, take a heli-ski guided experience you’ll never forget.

Book your heli ski adventure with the following:

• Helicopter Line
• Mount Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters
• Ski the Tasman
• Tasman Glacier Skiing

The Mackenzie offers a range of single and multi-day ski touring options. Explore glaciated terrain and remote valleys as you camp out in the stunning alpine terrain of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

Book your backcountry adventure with the following:

• Helicopter Line
• Mount Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters
• Ski the Tasman
• Tasman Glacier Skiing

The Mackenzie Region has many ways to enjoy winter without giving your muscles a workout and plenty of methods to relax after a day on the slopes. Ride the snow tubes, enjoy the skating rink, or take a dip in the hot pools at Tekapo Springs. The clear winter days are perfect for scenic flights, great walks, 4WD adventures, cycling, and the nights for spectacular stargazing. Plus there are plenty of great cafes and eateries to enjoy as you take in the beautiful surrounds.