Hanmer Springs Ski Resort

Hanmer Springs Ski Area is located in the South Island of New Zealand, about 17km northwest of the town of Hanmer Springs. It is a small ski resort with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, offering skiing and snowboarding on mostly […]

Hanmer Springs Ski Area is located in the South Island of New Zealand, about 17km northwest of the town of Hanmer Springs. It is a small ski resort with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, offering skiing and snowboarding on mostly intermediate terrain.

The skiable terrain at Hanmer Springs ski resort covers about 52 hectares, with a maximum vertical drop of 310 meters. The resort offers 2 chairlifts and 2 surface tows, which service 12 groomed runs. The runs are mainly intermediate level, with a few beginner and advanced runs as well.

The base elevation of Hanmer Springs ski resort is around 1,600 meters, with the highest point at around 1,910 meters. The ski season typically runs from early July to early October, depending on snow conditions.

The website URL for Hanmer Springs ski resort is: https://www.skihanmer.co.nz/

What Type of Skiing and Snowboarding Experience is Hanmer Springs Ski Resort Renowned For?

Hanmer Springs Ski Resort is renowned for providing a relaxed and friendly skiing and snowboarding experience, which is suitable for intermediate level skiers and snowboarders. The resort offers mostly intermediate level terrain, with a few beginner and advanced runs as well.

The resort is known for its uncrowded slopes, which allow for plenty of space to practice and enjoy the runs. It is a popular destination for families and beginners, as well as intermediate skiers and snowboarders who are looking for a laid-back skiing experience.

Additionally, Hanmer Springs Ski Resort offers a range of other activities in addition to skiing and snowboarding, such as tubing and snowshoeing, which adds to the overall winter experience.

What is the Snow Quality like at Hanmer Springs Ski Resort?

The typical ski season at Hanmer Springs Ski Resort runs from early July to early October, depending on snow conditions. However, it’s important to note that snow conditions can vary from year to year and may impact the length of the season.

Regarding the snow quality, Hanmer Springs Ski Resort is located in a relatively dry region of New Zealand, so the snow quality can be affected by the weather conditions. However, the resort has a snowmaking system, which helps to ensure that there is adequate snow cover on the slopes throughout the season.

The quality of the snow can vary depending on the temperature and humidity, but generally, the snow conditions are good, particularly during the peak season in July and August when there is typically more natural snowfall.

What Types of Ski Runs Does Hanmer Springs Ski Resort Have?

Here’s a breakdown of the types of ski runs at Hanmer Springs Ski Resort and their difficulty levels:

• Beginner: These runs are ideal for those who are new to skiing or snowboarding, with gentle slopes and forgiving terrain. They make up approximately 20% of the runs at Hanmer Springs.
• Intermediate: These runs are suited for those who have some experience on the slopes, with steeper pitches and more challenging terrain. Intermediate runs make up the majority of the ski resort, with around 70% of the runs being intermediate level.
• Advanced: These runs are designed for experienced skiers and snowboarders, with steep and challenging terrain. Advanced runs make up approximately 10% of the runs at Hanmer Springs.

It’s worth noting that these percentages are approximate and can vary depending on the season and snow conditions.

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

Hanmer Springs Ski Resort has a total of 4 ski lifts, consisting of:

• 2 chairlifts: The main lifts at the resort are both chairlifts, which are named Heritage Express and Triple Chair. Heritage Express is a high-speed detachable quad chairlift, which services the upper mountain terrain, while Triple Chair is a fixed-grip triple chairlift that services the lower mountain terrain.
• 2 surface tows: The resort also has two surface tows, which are named the Mitey Carpet and Magic Carpet. These are conveyor belt lifts that are designed for beginners and those learning to ski or snowboard.

 

What Other Features are Available at Hanmer Springs Ski Resort?

Hanmer Springs Ski Resort offers a range of other features and amenities in addition to skiing and snowboarding, including:

• Terrain park: The resort has a small terrain park with a few features, such as boxes and rails, for those who enjoy freestyle skiing or snowboarding.
• Café and restaurant: There is a café and restaurant located at the base of the ski resort, which offers a range of food and drink options.
• Ski school: Hanmer Springs Ski Resort has a ski school, which offers lessons for all levels, from beginner to advanced. Private and group lessons are available, as well as programs for children.
• Ski rentals: The resort offers ski and snowboard rental equipment, which can be hired on a daily or multi-day basis.
• Lockers: There are lockers available for rent at the resort, which can be used to store personal items and equipment during the day.
• Snow tubing: Hanmer Springs Ski Resort also has a snow tubing park, which is a fun activity for all ages.

 

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

There are a range of accommodation options located near Hanmer Springs Ski Resort, ranging from budget-friendly to more luxurious options. Here are ten recommended options with brief information and links to their websites:

1. Forest Peak Motel: This motel is located in Hanmer Springs village, just a 10-minute drive from the ski resort. It offers affordable and comfortable accommodation, with a range of room options to suit different budgets. 
2. Alpine Holiday Apartments & Campground: This holiday park is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of accommodation options, including self-contained apartments and cabins, as well as powered and unpowered campsites. 
3. Hanmer Inn Motel: This motel is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of budget-friendly and comfortable rooms, as well as a heated outdoor pool and spa. 
4. Village Lake Apartments: These apartments are located in Hanmer Springs village, offering modern and spacious self-contained accommodation, with a range of room options to suit different group sizes and budgets. 
5. Hanmer Apartments: These apartments are located in Hanmer Springs village, offering modern and stylish self-contained accommodation, with a range of room options to suit different group sizes and budgets. 
6. The St James Premium Accommodation: This boutique hotel is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering luxurious and stylish accommodation, with a range of room options and spa services available. 
7. Cheltenham House: This bed and breakfast is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering elegant and comfortable accommodation in a historic building. 
8. Braemar Lodge & Spa: This luxurious lodge is located a short drive from Hanmer Springs village, offering stunning mountain views and a range of spa and wellness services. 
9. The Chalets Motel: This motel is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering modern and comfortable self-contained accommodation, with a range of room options to suit different group sizes and budgets. 
10. The Heritage Hanmer Springs: This hotel is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering luxurious and elegant accommodation, with a range of room options and spa services available. 

 

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

There are a range of restaurants and entertainment options located near Hanmer Springs Ski Resort, suitable for singles, couples, families, and different budgets. Here are ten recommended options with brief information and links to their websites:

1. Monteith’s Brewery Bar Hanmer Springs: This bar and restaurant is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of craft beers and pub-style food. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
2. Malabar Restaurant: This Indian restaurant is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of traditional Indian dishes. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
3. No. 31 Restaurant & Bar: This restaurant and bar is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of contemporary New Zealand cuisine and a selection of wines. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
4. The Powerhouse Cafe: This cafe is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of breakfast and lunch options, as well as coffee and baked goods. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
5. Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa: This thermal pools and spa complex is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of pools, spas, and treatments. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
6. Hanmer Horse Trekking: This horse trekking company offers guided horse rides through scenic forest and mountain landscapes. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
7. Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre: This adventure centre offers a range of activities, including bungy jumping, jet boating, quad biking, and more. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
8. The Hanmer Springs Animal Park: This animal park is located a short drive from Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of farm and exotic animals to see and interact with. Suitable for families. 
9. The Garden House: This restaurant and bar is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of New Zealand and international cuisine, as well as a selection of beers and wines. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
10. Hanmer Springs Golf Course: This golf course is located a short drive from Hanmer Springs village, offering scenic views and a challenging 18-hole course. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 

 

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

Hanmer Springs is a popular tourist destination with a range of bars and entertainment options. Here are ten recommended bars with brief information and links to their websites:

1. Monteith’s Brewery Bar Hanmer Springs: This bar and restaurant is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of craft beers and pub-style food. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
2. No. 31 Restaurant & Bar: This restaurant and bar is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of contemporary New Zealand cuisine and a selection of wines. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
3. Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa: This thermal pools and spa complex is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of pools, spas, and treatments. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
4. Suburban Kitchen: This restaurant and bar is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of cocktails, wines, and craft beers, as well as a selection of New Zealand cuisine. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
5. The Powerhouse Cafe: This cafe is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of breakfast and lunch options, as well as coffee and baked goods. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
6. Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre: This adventure centre offers a range of activities, including bungy jumping, jet boating, quad biking, and more. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
7. The St James Premium Taproom: This bar is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of craft beers and ales on tap, as well as a selection of food. Suitable for singles and couples. 
8. Hanmer Springs RSA: This RSA club is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of drinks and food, as well as entertainment such as live music and quiz nights. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
9. The Bellbird Bar & Grill: This bar and restaurant is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of drinks and food, as well as live music and events. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 
10. The Brasserie: This restaurant and bar is located in Hanmer Springs village, offering a range of cocktails, wines, and craft beers, as well as a selection of New Zealand and international cuisine. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. 

 

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

There are plenty of other things to do in and around Hanmer Springs ski resort besides skiing and snowboarding. Here are some popular activities:

1. Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa: Relax in the natural hot pools and indulge in a range of spa treatments, massages, and beauty therapies.
2. Bungy jumping: Take a leap of faith off a bridge with Hanmer Springs Bungy Jumping, located just 10 minutes from the ski resort.
3. Jet boating: Experience the thrill of high-speed jet boating on the Waiau River with Hanmer Springs Jet.
4. Quad biking: Explore the mountains on a guided quad bike tour with Adventure Quad Tours.
5. Horse trekking: Enjoy a scenic horseback ride through the countryside with Hanmer Horse Treks.
6. Hiking and tramping: Explore the beautiful mountain trails in and around the Hanmer Springs area, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
7. Mountain biking: Rent a bike and hit the trails in Hanmer Forest Park, which has a range of trails for all levels.
8. Golf: Tee off at the scenic Hanmer Springs Golf Club, which offers 18 holes set against a stunning alpine backdrop.
9. Wine tours: Sample the local wines with a tour of the Waipara Valley wine region, located about an hour’s drive from Hanmer Springs.
10. Helicopter tours: Take a scenic helicopter tour of the mountains and surrounding area with Alpine Helicopters.

These are just a few examples of the many activities and attractions available in the Hanmer Springs area. It’s worth noting that availability and pricing can vary depending on the season and demand, so it’s recommended to book in advance and check each activity’s website or contact them directly for up-to-date pricing and availability.

How to Get to Hanmer Springs Ski Resort?

Hanmer Springs ski resort is located approximately 130km north of Christchurch, the nearest major city and transportation hub. Here’s how to get there from some of the region’s most popular transportation options:

From Christchurch Airport:

• By Car: The most convenient way to get to Hanmer Springs is to rent a car from Christchurch Airport and drive north on State Highway 1, then turn off onto State Highway 7 at Waipara, and follow the signs to Hanmer Springs (approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes).
• By Shuttle: Several shuttle services operate between Christchurch Airport and Hanmer Springs, including Hanmer Connection and Canterbury Leisure Tours. Prices and schedules vary, so it’s recommended to book in advance.

From Christchurch Train Station:

• By Car: Rent a car from Christchurch and follow the directions above (approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes).
• By Bus: Intercity operates several daily bus services between Christchurch and Hanmer Springs, with prices starting from around $25 one way. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.

From Christchurch Bus Exchange:

• By Car: Rent a car from Christchurch and follow the directions above (approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes).
• By Bus: Several bus companies operate services between Christchurch and Hanmer Springs, including InterCity and Atomic Shuttles. Prices and schedules vary, so it’s recommended to book in advance.

It’s worth noting that during winter, snow and ice can affect road conditions in the area, so it’s recommended to check the road conditions before setting off and to drive carefully.

Hanmer Springs ski resort is renowned for being a family-friendly ski resort with a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. The ski resort has a good mix of runs suitable for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers and snowboarders, but is particularly popular with beginners and families with children due to its gentle slopes and excellent ski school. The ski resort is also popular with intermediate skiers and snowboarders who enjoy cruising the groomed runs and taking in the beautiful alpine scenery. Advanced skiers and snowboarders may find the ski resort’s terrain a bit limited, but there are some challenging runs and off-piste areas to explore. Overall, Hanmer Springs ski resort is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and relaxed ski holiday in a beautiful alpine setting.

 

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