The second club field I went to that fateful first road trip and I haven't looked back.

Like any club field, you need fresh snow but when it's on it's on and no crowds or hordes to fight off. You have the place to yourself.

A little out of the way but you can have a soak in the springs back in Hanmer on your way home. Definitely stay the night in classic bunkstyle lodgings and I remember having a free night's accommodation if you purchase back to back ski passes? Don't know if it still applies or not but that was a fun trip.

Another classic kiwi ski field road with lots of character, just like some of the runs. Some limited beginner's with most of the quality to be had in the intermediate but more towards the advanced level. Good open runs, easy to navigate and options to explore.

No amenities around though so BYO food, skis, etc and be prepared to have a good time. Very friendly staff and no rope tows if I remember correctly so good for the whole family and those just after some good clean fun. Not a lot of steep stuff but enough variety for a day or two.
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Fantastic terrain for intermediates and beyond. North facing slopes so sunny all day. Fresh powder each time I've been up, friendly staff and NO CROWDS!
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Hanmer Springs Ski Area is a little gem; a place where you can have an enjoyable and cheap ski experience without any crowds. Whilst the ski area doesn’t receive an abundance of snow fall, when a powder day arrives, you’ll have the place to yourself.

Hanmer Springs is well suited to intermediate and advanced skiers, but not well suited to beginners or those looking for scary steeps.

One advantage of skiing at Hanmer Springs is that you can combine the joys of the ski area with all that the town and the thermal pools have to offer.

For more detailed ratings of Hanmer Springs and to see how it compares to other ski areas around the world, see our powderhounds NZ ski resort ratings.
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