Broken River Ski Area is 110 kms and 90 minutes west of
Christchurch in Craigieburn Conservation Area. Broken River offers
a unique, truly kiwi ski experience bringing you the best of Club
skiing - uncrowded slopes, great atmosphere with likeminded
fanatics and excellent terrain.
Broken River caters for the off-piste telemark, ski, or
snowboard adventurist who wants something a little different and
more than just the skiing. The four minute funicular ride from the
carpark up through native beech forest to the ticket office is the
just the beginning of your experience.
The Canterbury ski seasons runs from approximately mid June -
October.
Visitors planning a trip to this spectacular part of the South
Island should check out these ski &
board itineraries to help plan their journey.
If you pine for fresh powder, fantastic terrain and scenery,
uncrowded slopes and a unique slice of Kiwiana then Broken River is
the place for you! Described as "poor man's heli-skiing" Broken
River features backcountry, off-piste terrain within the ski
boundary. Explore open slopes, rolling bowls, and steep
chutes with exhilarating runs to challenge beginner to
experts. Experience the tranquil, backcountry atmosphere of
Allan's Basin and the joy of untracked terrain and long powder
runs.
Broken River is famous for its friendly, laid-back, social
"community" atmosphere. Relax on the deck of Palmer Day Lodge
and admire your mornings handy-work while your lunch cooks on the
BBQ. There is plenty of time to linger and make use of the communal
kitchen and lounge facilities. Grab the chance to improve your
skiing or boarding with one of our highly trained instructors.
The Broken River experience is not complete without staying a
few nights in one of our three on-mountain lodges. Nestled in
forest at treeline all three lodges have stunning views of the
valley below. You'll really get to know the locals, including the
cheeky kea, the world's only alpine parrot.
Hours of Operation
9.00 am -4.30 pm
Directions
Drive on State Highway 73, west of Christchurch. Broken River is the third turn off, 7.5 km past Castle Hill village. Once off the highway the road winds gently up through native beech forest to Hanomag carpark at the base of the funicular, the Tyndall Tramway. It is essential that all vehicles carry chains although these are generally only required on 2 wheel drive vehicles. Put you and your gear on the Tyndall Tramway and enjoy a 4 minute ride up through the beech forest to the ticket office and accommodation lodges. The ski area is 10 minutes walk.
Methods of Payment
Address:
State Highway 73
near Castle Hill, Canterbury
Phone:
+64 3 318 8713
Fax:
+64 3 318 7270
Duration
Broken River is open daily from 9am to 4.30 am and generally later in the afternoon in spring. Night skiing (generally 7-10 pm) is scheduled regularly through the season when conditions are favourable.
Season
Broken River is known for great powder and spring skiing. Our season starts in early July and runs through to late October. Over the last 8 years Broken River has been the last or last equal South Island ski area to remain in 6 years.
Transport
Carpooling available through snow pool. www.snowpool.org.nz.