Surf and ski in the same day

An exhilarating Christchurch adventure

Thanks to its unique geography, Christchurch is one of the few places in the world where you can surf and ski on the same day, without rushing, flying or breaking the bank. This is your guide to making it happen, an exhilarating day out from the coast to the mountains.

Is it really possible to surf and ski in one day in Christchurch?

Absolutely. It’s not just a novelty or something reserved for professional athletes. The surf to summit day in Christchurch is realistic for anyone with an active lifestyle prepared for a bit of planning. The key is to start early, check the surf and snow reports ahead of time, and pack smart. Bring warm layers, snacks, water, sunscreen, and your gear (or book rentals the day before). With a good forecast and an adventurous spirit, you can easily surf at sunrise and be on the snow by lunchtime, all without even leaving Canterbury.

Where should you surf in the morning?

The ideal surf start to your day begins just 20 to 30 minutes from central Christchurch. The coastline here is dotted with scenic beaches that cater to a range of surf abilities. Sumner Beach is the most popular and accessible option. The mellow waves are perfect for beginners or those who haven’t been on a board in a while.

Just around the corner is Scarborough Beach, a favourite with locals, offering a slightly more exposed break that can be great for intermediate surfers when the swell is right. For those wanting a bit more solitude and bigger waves, Taylors Mistake, tucked behind Scarborough, is a hidden gem known for its consistent swells and beautiful, rugged surroundings. Before heading out, it’s worth checking the surf forecast for conditions, as they can vary depending on tides and wind direction.

Be sure to keep up with the latest surf conditions at MetService and Christchurch Surf.

What should you do after your surf session?

Once you’ve had your fill of waves, it’s time to warm up and refuel. A quick change out of your wetsuit and into dry clothes in the back of the car is practically a rite of passage here. After dusting off the sand, head to one of Sumner’s local cafés. Dot Com Café is a long-standing favourite, serving up strong coffee and generous brunches. Ocean Café & Bar at Scarborough is another great pick, especially if you want to sit by the window and watch the surf roll in.

How long does it take to get to the ski fields from the beach?

From the beachside suburbs of Christchurch, it’s about an hour and a half to Porters Alpine Resort. The drive takes you west, through farmland and foothills, eventually climbing into the Southern Alps. It’s a stunning transition from coast to mountain and if you’re not in a rush, there are a couple of excellent stops along the way to break up the journey. Les Délices, a French bakery in West Melton, serves up freshly baked pastries and excellent coffee, while Darfield Bakery is known for its pies and hearty sandwiches. Both are great options for a late breakfast or early lunch on the go. Make sure to check the road conditions up Porters Pass before you head into the mountains. Snow chains are occasionally required during winter and early spring.

Why choose Porters Alpine Resort?

Porters is the closest ski field to Christchurch and one of the most accessible in the South Island. It’s a smaller, friendly resort that caters to all levels of skiers and snowboarders, from beginners to more advanced snow farers. While it might not have the scale of Mt Hutt or the Queenstown fields, it offers quality snow, stunning views, and a much more relaxed vibe with no queues, no crowds, and no stress. If you’re just after a half-day on the slopes, or you’re new to skiing, Porters is ideal. You can easily spend the afternoon exploring its runs, catching a few chairlift rides, and soaking up the views across the Canterbury Plains. Mt Hutt is also an option just over two hours from the city. This popular ski destination offers a bigger ski area and more challenging terrain, but you’ll need to plan for a longer day.

Where can you rent gear for both surf and snow?

If you’re traveling light or don’t have your own equipment, you can rent everything you need in Christchurch before you hit the road. Snow & Surf is a one-stop shop that’s well-known among locals for its range of gear and friendly, expert advice. Whether you need a surfboard and wetsuit, or skis, snowboards, boots and jackets, they’ve got you covered. It’s worth calling ahead or booking online during busy weekends to make sure they have what you need. If you pick the snow gear up the day before your trip, you’ll be ready to hit the road the next day and make the most of the mountain.

How can you unwind back in Christchurch after a big day out?

After an afternoon on the slopes, Porters’ on-site café is a great spot to grab a hot chocolate or mulled cider and watch the sun cast golden light across the snow. The drive back down through the foothills offers plenty of chances to reflect on your day.

Once you’re back in the city, there’s no better way to unwind than with a relaxed dinner and some live music for a relaxed end to a busy day. The beautifully converted Church Pub in Christchurch offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere, great food, and a lively line-up of local acts. Whether you’re catching up with friends or just soaking in the moment solo, it’s the perfect place to toast the rare magic of a memorable surf-and-ski day.