Amuri Skifield

Perched in the rugged Hanmer Range, Amuri Skifield is a compact, family-run ski area that delivers big on charm and uncrowded slopes. With its laid-back atmosphere, affordable lift passes, and stunning views over the Amuri Basin, this is the kind of place where you can ski straight to your car and enjoy a hot chocolate in the sun without the queues. The field offers a mix of beginner and intermediate trails, plus some advanced off-piste terrain for those in the know.

Highlights & What to See

• Beginner-friendly learning area – A gentle, wide slope with a platter lift makes it ideal for first-timers or rusty skiers finding their legs.
• Intermediate cruising on the main T-bar – The long, rolling runs offer consistent snow and sweeping views across the plains.
• Off-piste adventures – For experienced skiers, the backcountry bowls and chutes around the summit provide powder stashes long after a storm.
• Family-run café – Grab a hearty mince pie or a steaming mug of soup in the cozy base lodge, where the friendly staff know regulars by name.
• Scenic drive up Jollies Pass Road – The winding gravel road to the field passes through beech forest and offers photo-worthy glimpses of the surrounding mountains.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors tackle Amuri as a day trip from Hanmer Springs, which is a 30-minute drive away. Arrive early (the road can be icy) and you'll have time to ski a full morning, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and hit a few more runs before heading back. If you're a keen skier, you can easily fill a full day here, but half a day is also worthwhile if you're combining with other Hanmer activities like hot pools or mountain biking.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs – Soak tired muscles in the famous thermal pools after a day on the slopes.
• Waiau Ferry Bridge – A historic one-lane bridge and a great spot for a riverside picnic on the way to the skifield.
• St James Conservation Area – Remote hiking and 4WD tracks for those wanting to extend their alpine adventure.
• Kaikōura – A scenic 1.5-hour drive east, offering whale watching and fresh seafood.
• Lewis Pass National Reserve – Hot springs and tramping trails along the Lewis Highway.

Please check official sources for current details.