Pisa Alpine Charitable Trust trustee Peter Soundy told the council's 10-year plan hearings it should buy the 310ha property and turn it into a recreation reserve, thus protecting it for future generations.
The Snow Farm has been developed by Mary and John Lee over 15 years but is now for sale because they want to retire.
The trust had been formed to take over the field, assisted by the Lees, Mr Soundy said in his written submission. The Lees had rejected other offers and were giving the trust time to come up with funding.
However, the agreed valuation of $2.035 million was beyond the capabilities of the trust, which proposed to maintain all existing uses and enhance the accessibility of the area, including school camps and environmental research.
The trust wanted the council to lease it the land, and it would fund the facilities and operate the area. It would raise funds from local and national trusts, and seek central government sporting grants and private benefactors, he said.
The council would not be responsible for ongoing costs, just the land purchase and establishment of reserve status, he said.
"We don't expect it to be a millstone around the council's neck," Mr Soundy said.
The area would create employment opportunities, attract international visitors, preserve cross-country skiing, recreational opportunities, and protection of landscape from development.
Cross-country skiing was "fundamental" to the Winter Games.
"The Winter Games to be held in August rely heavily on the existence of the Snow Farm to facilitate the sports of cross-country skiing and winter triathlon," he said.
Winter Games NZ chairman Eion Edgar told the hearing the Snow Farm was a "key ingredient" of this year's and future Winter Games because it was the only area in Otago capable of hosting cross-country skiing, biathlon and winter triathlon.
"Without these events the Winter Games would lose a significant part of its diversity of winter sports. It is this diversity that is attracting the world-estimated viewing audience of 350 million to watch the Winter Games in Otago and ensure its growing success," he said.
Mr Edgar said he was sure a public appeal would raise funds towards the purchase as it would be New Zealand's only high altitude training ground, vital in attracting top athletes.
The Snow Farm could also be used in the summer months for mountain biking trails, hiking and altitude training.
The council received 14 submissions in support of buying the Snow Farm and making it a recreation reserve.
