Hanmer is also quickly becoming recognised as a 'well-being' hub
in Canterbury... to find out why, make sure you check out the natural thermal
pools while you are here!
Situated on Mt St. Patrick, at 1850m, it's an easy 40 minute
drive from the alpine thermal holiday resort of Hanmer Springs.
In a good season with lots of snow, this is a great area for
some sensational skiing! The club field ski runs cater for all
levels of skiers, but especially those at an intermediate grade
who'll literally discover a whole mountain of fun! While all the
main runs are groomed there's still plenty of virgin snow left for
the experts and the more adventurous to enjoy.
Day 1: Christchurch to Hanmer
Pick up a hire car from Christchurch and join State Highway 1
north to the alpine thermal holiday resort of Hanmer Springs.
This scenic drive will take you around 90minutes.
Arriving in Hanmer, make your way to the Settlers Inn
Motel which will be your base for the weekend. This five star
boutique style motel complex in the heart of Hanmer is only a four
minute stroll to the Thermal Pools -
this will come in handy tomorrow after a full day on the
slopes!
For dinner tonight try the Heritage Hanmer Springs. This
elegant restaurant and bar has captured the essence of the region.
The Dining Room's high ceilings and the ambience of a roaring fire
in winter add charm to a menu bursting with Waipara New Zealand
wines and Pacific cuisine.
Day 2: Hitting the Slopes
After breakfast at your accommodation, it's time head to the
slopes for a boutique Mountain adventure. Either drive yourself up
or jump on a shuttle that leaves daily from Hanmer
Village (bookings recommended), this will take around 40
minutes.
*If you are driving always drive with caution as snow and
ice may exist and be hard to see! Follow all road signs, and please
check the weather report for road conditions prior to
travelling.
A great way to begin your day on the slopes is to tune up your
skills with a ski/snowboard lesson. Both private and group lessons
are available.
Once you are ready to go there are several groomed runs to choose
from and plenty of off-piste area for the more advanced skiers and
riders. The beginner's area is right beside the Day Lodge with
excellent open terrain for kids. The ski area is a great place to
learn to ski or snowboard, and to bring the family for a weekend
away. If you have never used a 'nutcracker' before, Hanmer Springs
is a good place to start.
At lunch time make your way over to the Day Lodge - it's a good
idea to bring your own packed lunch, but there is a selection of
food on offer at the shop such as hot pies, chocolate, canned
drinks and coffee. Once you are finished its time to enjoy the rest
of your afternoon on the snow, perhaps exploring a different part
of the mountain!
To top off a perfect day on the slopes, soak those weary limbs
in the hot pools at the famous Hanmer Springs
Thermal Pools and Spa. These luxury pools will have you feeling
relaxed, refreshed and ready to go for another active day tomorrow.
If you feel like something a little extra, why not indulge in a
treatment from The Spa which is open 10.00am - 7.00pm every day
except Christmas Day.
Day 3: Morning Ski, Explore Hanmer, Back to
Christchurch
After breakfast at one of the cafes in Hanmer Village,
head back up Mount St. Patrick for an exciting morning on the
slopes.
In the afternoon get to Hanmer a little bit easier by hiring a
Mountain bike and exploring one of the many cycle trails.
Alternatively, grab your walking shoes and go for a hike up Conical
Hill. It will take around 1 hour return and is well worth it for
the spectacular panoramic views!
Key Links
- If you'd like more information about how to book this or other
itineraries, simply contact info@christchurchnz.com
- The Christchurch i-SITE is your
ultimate source of itinerary advice and trusted local knowledge.
They offer a FREE booking service for accommodation, activities and
transport throughout Christchurch, Canterbury and New Zealand.
- Being New Zealand's largest independent car rental company,
Apex Car Rentals offers a large fleet of new and late model car
hire options. Contact Apex for car rental
information and booking.