Mount Herbert Ski Field

Mount Herbert Ski Field is a hidden gem in the Hanmer Springs region, offering a charming, family-friendly skiing experience on a working sheep farm. This club field feels like a step back in time, with a single T-bar and a rope tow serving uncrowded slopes, making it perfect for beginners and intermediates seeking a relaxed, affordable day on the snow without the queues of larger resorts.

Highlights & What to See

• Ski on a farm: Enjoy the unique experience of skiing on a high-country sheep station, with woolly spectators often watching from the sidelines.
• Uncrowded slopes: With limited lift capacity, the field rarely feels busy, giving you plenty of space to carve turns at your own pace.
• Spectacular alpine views: From the top of the T-bar, take in sweeping vistas of the Hanmer Basin and the surrounding Southern Alps.
• Learn to ski: The gentle beginner slope and patient instructors make this an ideal spot for first-timers or nervous skiers.
• Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa: After a day on the slopes, soak your muscles in the famous hot pools just a short drive away in Hanmer Springs village.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day (roughly 6–8 hours) skiing, as the field operates from 9am to 4pm. If you're just starting out, half a day is enough to get the hang of it and still have time for other Hanmer Springs activities. The drive from Hanmer Springs village takes about 30 minutes on a gravel road, so factor that in. Arrive early to secure parking and grab a coffee from the cosy base hut.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs – Just 20 km away, this alpine village is famous for its thermal pools, spa treatments, and adventure activities like bungy jumping and jet boating.
• Waiau River – Perfect for a scenic walk, fishing, or a peaceful picnic along the riverbanks.
• Conway River – Offers remote tramping and hunting opportunities for the more adventurous.
• Kaikōura – About 1.5 hours north, this coastal town is renowned for whale watching, dolphin encounters, and fresh seafood.

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