Craigieburn Ski Resort

Craigieburn Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the Southern Alps of New Zealand (or a beautiful 90 minute drive from Christchurch).  Offering up the finest steeps, chutes and powder bowl skiing you’ll ever find in […]

Craigieburn Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the Southern Alps of New Zealand (or a beautiful 90 minute drive from Christchurch). 

Offering up the finest steeps, chutes and powder bowl skiing you’ll ever find in New Zealand, Craigieburn is an alpine experience like no other.

Here, you’ll find the friendliest club atmosphere anywhere. When people who love skiing and riding get together, great things happen, and good people have been at the heart of Craigieburn since the club was established in 1954

The elevation of Craigieburn Ski Resort ranges from 1,310 metres at the base area to 1,922 metres at the top of the mountain.

The skiable terrain at Craigieburn Ski Resort has a vertical drop of 500 metres. The resort offers a range of terrain including all off-piste powder skiing, chutes, bowls, and natural terrain. 

The website URL for Craigieburn Ski Resort is https://www.craigieburn.co.nz/.

What Type of Skiing and Snowboarding Experience is Craigieburn Resort Renowned For?

Craigieburn Ski Resort is renowned for its challenging skiing and snowboarding experience. The resort is well-known for its steep and ungroomed terrain, making it a popular destination for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders. 

The resort also has a reputation for offering some of the best off-piste skiing in New Zealand, with plenty of opportunities for powder skiing and backcountry exploration.

Due to the challenging nature of the terrain, Craigieburn Ski Resort may not be suitable for beginner or intermediate skiers and snowboarders. However, the resort does offer some beginner and intermediate runs as well, making it possible for skiers and snowboarders of all levels to enjoy the resort.

What is the Snow Quality like at Craigieburn Ski Resort?

The typical ski season at Craigieburn Ski Resort runs from late June to early October. However, the exact opening and closing dates of the season may vary depending on snow conditions and other factors. 

It’s always a good idea to check the resort’s website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing dates.

The snow quality at Craigieburn Ski Resort is generally very good, with plenty of natural snowfall throughout the season. 

The resort has a high elevation, which helps to ensure that the snow stays fresh and powdery. However, because the terrain is quite steep and challenging, the snow conditions can be variable and may require more advanced skiing or snowboarding skills. 

Additionally, because the resort is located in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast before heading up the mountain.

What Types of Ski Runs Does Craigieburn Ski Resort Have?

Craigieburn Ski Resort is known for its challenging terrain, and as such, there are relatively few beginner or intermediate runs. The resort’s skiable terrain is primarily geared towards advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders. 

How Many Ski Lifts (and What Type) Does Craigieburn Ski Resort Have?

Described as the ‘poor man’s heliskiing’, there sure is plenty of terrain to explore at Craigieburn.. 

There are three high-capacity rope tows which service two basins.

What Other Features are Available at Craigieburn Ski Resort?

Craigieburn Ski Resort has a variety of features and amenities to enhance visitors’ skiing and snowboarding experience. Here are some of the features and amenities available at the resort:

• Day Lodge: The Daylodge offers breath-taking views of the whole mountain and has cooked lunches and snacks available during the day such as hamburgers, vege chilli, crisps and drinks, beer and wine.
• Accommodation: Craigieburn has two lodges – Koroheke and Matuhi nestled away just below the treeline. They offer a warm and friendly retreat right off the snow after a hard day on the hill. The facilities include a licensed bar, chefs kitchen, showers, toilets, drying room, lounge area, sleeping facilities and spectacular views across the valley.

Where Are The Best Places to Stay When Skiing at Craigieburn Ski Resorts?

There are several types of accommodation options located near Craigieburn Ski Resort, ranging from budget-friendly options to more upscale lodges. Here are ten recommended accommodation options, listed in no particular order:

1. Craigieburn Lodge: These cozy alpine lodges sleep 65 and are nestled in New Zealand’s scenic native bush. There are no hotels, day spas or shopping here, just good quality slope-side accommodation with a great social atmosphere. At the end of a long day in the pow, hearty lodge meals are dished up alongside plenty of banter.
2. Broken River Ski Lodge: This ski lodge is located just a short drive from Craigieburn Ski Resort and offers budget-friendly accommodation in a communal setting. Guests have access to a shared kitchen, lounge, and dining area. 
3. Castle Hill Lodge: This boutique lodge is located in the town of Castle Hill and offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly rooms to luxury suites. The lodge has a restaurant and bar, and guests have access to a hot tub and sauna. 
4. Springfield Motel and Lodge: This budget-friendly accommodation option is located in the town of Springfield, just a short drive from Craigieburn Ski Resort. The motel has a range of rooms and apartments, and guests have access to a shared kitchen and laundry facilities. 
5. Bealey Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the town of Bealey and offers a range of budget-friendly rooms. The hotel has a restaurant and bar, and guests can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. 
6. Arthurs Pass Alpine Motel: This budget-friendly motel is located in the town of Arthurs Pass and offers a range of rooms and apartments. The motel has a shared kitchen and lounge area, as well as a spa pool. 
7. The White Horse Inn: This historic hotel is located in the town of Broken River and offers budget-friendly accommodation in a communal setting. The hotel has a restaurant and bar, and guests have access to a shared lounge and kitchen area. 
8. Cheeseman Lodge: This ski lodge is located on-mountain at Mt. Cheeseman Ski Area, which is a short drive from Craigieburn Ski Resort. The lodge offers budget-friendly accommodation in a communal setting, and guests have access to a shared kitchen and lounge area. 
9. Flock Hill Lodge and Cottages: This upscale lodge is located in the town of Flock Hill and offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury suites to self-contained cottages. The lodge has a restaurant and bar, and guests can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. 
10. Korowai Lodge: This boutique lodge is located in the town of Arthur’s Pass and offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly rooms to luxury suites. The lodge has a restaurant and bar, and guests can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. 
11. Porters Lodge: This ski lodge is located on-mountain at Porters Ski Area, which is a short drive from Craigieburn Ski Resort. The lodge offers budget-friendly accommodation in a communal setting, and guests have access to a shared kitchen and lounge area.

 

Where are the Best Places to Eat When Skiing at Craigieburn Ski Resort?

There are several restaurants and entertainment options located near Craigieburn Ski Resort, offering a range of cuisine and experiences to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are ten recommended options, listed in no particular order:

1. The Bealey Hotel: This historic hotel has a restaurant and bar that serves pub-style food and is suitable for families, couples, and singles.
2. Cave Rock Cafe: This casual cafe offers a range of food options, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. It is suitable for families, couples, and singles.
3. Castle Hill Village Store: This small store offers coffee, snacks, and light meals. It is suitable for families, couples, and singles. 
4. The Mountain House: This upscale restaurant offers a range of cuisine, including New Zealand specialties and vegetarian options. It is suitable for couples and families. 
5. The Old School Cafe: This casual cafe is located in the town of Springfield and offers a range of food options, including pizza, burgers, and salads. It is suitable for families, couples, and singles. 
6. The Store Cafe: This casual cafe is located in the town of Castle Hill and offers a range of food options, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. It is suitable for families, couples, and singles.
7. The Sheffield Pie Shop: This casual bakery offers a range of sweet and savory pies, as well as coffee and other snacks. It is suitable for families, couples, and singles.
8. The Wobbly Kea: This casual bar and restaurant offers a range of food options, including pub-style fare and vegetarian options. It is suitable for families, couples, and singles. 
9. Porters Lodge: This ski lodge has a restaurant and bar that serves pub-style food and is suitable for families, couples, and singles.
10. Broken River Club: This ski club offers meals and snacks to members and guests, and is suitable for families, couples, and singles.

What are the Best Bars and Entertainment Venues When Skiing near Craigieburn Ski Resort?

It is important to note that the area surrounding Craigieburn Ski Resort is primarily a wilderness area, and there are limited bars and nightlife options available. However, here are ten recommended bars and entertainment options located nearby:

1. The Bealey Hotel: This historic hotel has a bar that serves beer, wine, and spirits, and is suitable for families, couples, and singles.
2. Cave Rock Cafe: This casual cafe has a bar that serves beer, wine, and spirits, and is suitable for families, couples, and singles. 
3. Castle Hill Village Store: This small store has a small selection of beer and wine available, and is suitable for families, couples, and singles.
4. The Mountain House: This upscale restaurant has a bar that serves beer, wine, and cocktails, and is suitable for couples and families. 
5. The Old School Cafe: This casual cafe is located in the town of Springfield and has a small selection of beer and wine available. It is suitable for families, couples, and singles. 
6. The Store Cafe: This casual cafe is located in the town of Castle Hill and has a small selection of beer and wine available. It is suitable for families, couples, and singles. 
7. The Wobbly Kea: This casual bar and restaurant serves beer, wine, and spirits, and is suitable for families, couples, and singles. 
8. Porters Lodge: This ski lodge has a bar that serves beer, wine, and spirits, and is suitable for families, couples, and singles. 
9. Broken River Club: This ski club has a bar that serves beer, wine, and spirits to members and guests, and is suitable for families, couples, and singles. 
10. The Sheffield Pie Shop: This casual bakery has a small selection of beer and wine available, and is suitable for families, couples, and singles. 

 

What Are Some Other Things to Do When Skiing At Craigieburn Ski Resort?

While skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions at Craigieburn Ski Resort, there are several other things to do in the area:

1. Snowshoeing: The resort has snowshoe trails available for those who want to explore the winter landscape on foot.
2. Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding: The resort is known for its backcountry skiing and snowboarding terrain, and many visitors come specifically for this experience.
3. Hiking: The area has several hiking trails available, including the Craigieburn Valley Track and the Castle Hill Peak Track.
4. Mountaineering: For those with the skills and experience, the surrounding mountains offer opportunities for mountaineering and alpine climbing.
5. Scenic Drives: The Arthur’s Pass National Park offers several scenic drives, including the Great Alpine Highway and the Craigieburn Forest Park Scenic Drive.
6. Wildlife Watching: The area is home to several species of native wildlife, including kea parrots, tahr, and chamois.
7. Relaxing at Accommodations: Many of the accommodations near the resort offer amenities such as hot tubs and saunas for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
8. Photography: The area’s stunning natural beauty provides many opportunities for photography.
9. Visiting nearby attractions: The nearby Castle Hill Basin and Cave Stream Scenic Reserve offer opportunities for exploration and adventure.

 

How to Get to Craigieburn Ski Resort?

Craigieburn Ski Resort is located in the Canterbury region of New Zealand’s South Island, and there are several ways to get there from nearby airports, train stations, and bus stations.

1. From Christchurch Airport: Christchurch Airport is the closest airport to Craigieburn Ski Resort. You can hire a car or take a shuttle service from the airport. The drive takes around 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
2. From Christchurch Railway Station: If you’re arriving in Christchurch by train, you can take a shuttle service or hire a car from the railway station. The drive takes around 1.5-2 hours.
3. From Christchurch Bus Interchange: The Christchurch Bus Interchange is located in the city center, and there are several shuttle services that operate between the interchange and Craigieburn Ski Resort. The journey takes around 1.5-2 hours.
4. From Arthur’s Pass Village: Arthur’s Pass Village is located around 30 minutes’ drive from Craigieburn Ski Resort, and there are several shuttle services that operate between the two locations.
5. From other locations: If you’re coming from other parts of the South Island, there are several shuttle services and bus companies that operate in the region. It’s also possible to hire a car and drive to the resort.

Craigieburn Ski Resort is renowned for its challenging terrain and is best suited for experienced skiers and snowboarders. The resort is known for its backcountry terrain, steep chutes, and narrow runs. The resort has limited beginner terrain and is not recommended for beginners or intermediate skiers and snowboarders. Instead, it is best suited for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders who are looking for a challenging and exhilarating experience. The resort also attracts backcountry enthusiasts and those looking for a more rugged, off-the-beaten-path skiing experience.

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