Ski & Snow 2022

mackenzie
winter different in the mackenzie
If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s the value in slowing
down, breathing deeper, and living a little simpler. Situated
halfway between Christchurch and Queenstown on ‘New
Zealand’s Powder Highway’, the Mackenzie Region offers a laid
back, uncrowded winter alternative to the hustle and bustle of its
neighbouring regions.
Snow shoeing with Alpine Recreation
You’ll find three family-owned and operated ski fields with
unbeatable views, unparalleled ‘bucket list’ ski adventures, epic offmountain
experiences and a more relaxed pace of winter life. You
can stay Twizel, Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook or Fairlie and easily
travel around the whole region, making the best of the conditions
that day.
Over the last couple of years, the region has enjoyed some of
the best powder conditions in the country with two of the fields
extending their season and many of the backcountry experiences
going right into November.
The region also boasts an array of incredible off-mountain nature
based experiences. From hot pools and tubs, to walking and cycle
trails, to ice skating and snow tubing, to stargazing and astronomy
experiences, you won’t be short of things to see and do. The region
is home to the world's largest dark sky reserve; winter is the best
time to discover the stars with long, clear nights and the galactic
core right above. A walk in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
should be on every Kiwi’s to do list, alongside a glacier experience
on New Zealand’s largest – the mighty Tasman Glacier.
It’s no wonder the Mackenzie is becoming the winter destination of
choice amongst families, ski enthusiasts and holidaymakers.
ROUNDHILL SKI AREA
Approximately 45 minutes drive from Tekapo, Roundhill Ski
Area has one of the country’s easiest access roads and offers
the most spectacular views overlooking Lake Tekapo and out to
Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps.
Known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, Roundhill
offers plenty for skiers and boarders of all levels. The field
has a large learners area adjacent to the carpark – it’s not
uncommon for parents to be preparing the barbecue at their car
whilst watching the kids. There are plenty of intermediate runs,
including to the popular von Brown Bar which overlooks Lake
Tekapo and is the perfect retreat when the legs start tiring.
The more adventurous skier will love the world’s longest and
steepest rope to see what Australasia’s biggest vertical drop
(783m) is all about. With super long natural half-pipes and
chutes, this is skiing and riding at its best.
www.roundhill.co.nz
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