Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs NZ
It’s days of high adventure at Hanmer Springs ski area. A place where getting there is half the fun. No crowds, cheap accommodation, super staff, lifts that turn from dawn to dusk, views to die for. One can’t help but love this place. Score a powder day at Hanmer Springs and life in the mountains couldn’t be sweeter – or cheaper!
Previously called ‘Amuri’ after the ski club that established the ski field, Hanmer Springs is a cosy ski area where you should bring your mates, a heap of beers, stay a night or two on the hill, and remember what skiing used to be like (and still is in this bit of paradise).
Where is Hanmer Springs Ski Area?
Hanmer Springs ski area is 21km from the spa resort town of Hanmer Springs. The town of Hanmer Springs is 137km north of Christchurch, New Zealand. In a country where roads to ski areas tend to be a little bit on the challenging side, the road to Hanmer Springs ski area ups even that ante!
Hanmer Springs Ski and Snowboard Terrain
Essentially one wide alpine bowl with a high point of 1,850m, the majority of Hanmer Springs is an intermediates heaven. Whilst only small (52ha+) and with a vertical of about 350m+, there is ample scope to have a lot of fun. More advanced skiers can access some steep terrain and chutes, plus the backcountry skiing possibilities are immense. Unlike some smaller NZ ski areas, Hanmer has a groomer which provides quality skiing regardless of the snow conditions.
Hanmer Springs Accommodation and Facilities
Everything at Hanmer Springs ski area is basic but adequate. Accommodation in the lodge is as cheap as chips and all guests have access to shabby-chic lounges, the kitchen and day area. A small cafe provides the basics but otherwise it’s BYO. Ski hire and lessons are available from professional instructors.
The other option for
Hanmer Springs accommodation is to stay off the hill in town. A wide range of accommodation is available, with the top of the pops being the
Heritage Hanmer Springs Hotel.
Why Ski or Snowboard at Hanmer Springs?
Ahh the serenity. Hanmer Springs epitomises what skiing should be. No rush, no crowds, friendly and helpful staff, cheap accom, interesting terrain, frozen H2O on the ground, something to drag you up the hill, views, friends and a nice cold BYO beer.