Ohau Snow Fields

Ohau Snow Fields is a compact, family-friendly ski area perched on the slopes of the Ohau Range in the Mackenzie Country, offering uncrowded slopes, stunning alpine views, and a relaxed, old-school atmosphere that skiers and snowboarders treasure. The drive from Twizel or Lake Ohau Lodge takes you through dramatic mountain scenery, and the field itself feels refreshingly uncommercialised — no queues, no pretension, just great snow and a warm lodge with a wood fire. It's a hidden gem for intermediate and advanced skiers, with a solid mix of groomed runs, wide-open bowls, and off-piste terrain, plus a learner area for beginners.

Highlights & What to See

• Ski & Snowboard Terrain: Over 250 hectares of skiable terrain, with the Summit Chair giving access to long, cruisy runs and steep chutes for advanced riders.
• West Basin: A vast, south-facing bowl that holds snow well into spring, offering wide open intermediate runs and fantastic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook on a clear day.
• Family-Friendly Vibe: The learner area with a magic carpet and dedicated beginner slope is perfect for first-timers, and the lodge has a sunny deck and hearty café fare.
• Scenic Drive: The approach via Lake Ohau Road winds past turquoise lakes and tussock-covered hills, with photo stops at Lake Ohau itself and the Ahuriri River.
• Backcountry Access: Experienced skiers can explore the untracked snow beyond the boundary, but check conditions and consider a guide.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day skiing or snowboarding, arriving early to make the most of the fresh snow. The field operates from mid-June to late October, so you can easily combine a visit with a few days exploring the Mackenzie Basin. If you're short on time, a half-day is enough to enjoy the main runs and soak up the views from the summit. Many families make it a weekend trip, staying at Lake Ohau Lodge or in Twizel.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Twizel: The nearest town (45 minutes away), with accommodation, supermarkets, and dining options — good for stocking up before heading to the snow.
• Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park: Under an hour's drive, this iconic park offers glacier hikes, stargazing at the Dark Sky Reserve, and the famous Hooker Valley Track.
• Lake Tekapo: About 1.5 hours north, with the Church of the Good Shepherd, hot pools, and stunning turquoise lake views.
• Omarama: A small town known for its clay cliffs, hot pools, and gliding activities — a nice stop on the way to or from the ski field.
• Waitaki Valley: The broader region includes vineyards, limestone formations at Elephant Rocks, and the historic town of Oamaru on the coast.

Please check official sources for current details.