Ohau Snow Fields appeals to skiers and snowboarders looking for something less commercial, with a personal and friendly feel. It also caters for the family market, where small, friendly, and value for money is the draw.
Ohau Snow Fields offers something for skiers and riders of all abilities. It has a great learner slope with a snow mat (magic carpet), a platter lift, and a double chairlift.
One of the must-dos at Ohau for the more experienced is the 10- to 15-minute hike to the ridgeline, rewarded by stunning views of the Southern Alps.
And for all visitors, there are spectacular views of Lake Ohau, the Mackenzie landscape, and at the end of the day the light illuminating Hopkins Valley, with Aoraki/Mt Cook at the head.
Operating hours: 9am-4pm are the scheduled lift operating hours, subject to weather conditions.
Terrain grading: Beginner 20%, Intermediate 50%, Advanced 30%.
Lifts: 1 double chair, 1 platter, 1 snow mat.
Snow School: Friendly instructors offering skiing/snowboarding instruction and mountain awareness programmes. Register your children in the school holidays for the Mountain Goats beginners programme and lessons half-price.
Snowhire and repairs: 220 sets of Head and Salomon skis. Salomon Boots. 40 Burton Snowboards with soft bindings.
Facilities: Day Lodge with logburner, big tables, cafeteria with good food, espresso coffee and souvenir shop.
There are very few fields in New Zealand that operate a skifield and also have associated accommodation.
Lake Ohau Lodge is the perfect place to base yourself for your Ohau winter holiday. The 70-room lodge offers accommodation for every taste and budget, from bunkrooms through to luxurious suites with balconies and spectacular views.
The lodge is perfect for families, groups, and couples. There is an early dining time for children, and an exceptional three-course set menu, and a wine list that focuses on the region.
Packages are available, and house guests are entitled to a discounted lift pass at Ohau Snow Fields.