Kaikoura & Hanmer Springs

Kaikoura, located on a rocky peninsula on the East Coast of New Zealand with impressive mountains dropping to the ocean. The picturesque town is well known for its astounding seafood and marine wildlife.

An hour's drive on the Scenic Triangle from Kaikoura will bring you to Mount Lyford, a fun and friendly family operated ski area for all abilities. It's an uncrowded mountain and a favourite of locals and Christchurch residents alike.

The Hurunui District stretches from jagged coastlines and sandy beaches on the East Coast to inland alpine villages and lush green forests. Just a 45 minute drive from Christchurch, the area is rich in accommodation, activities and eateries.

Situated in a high country basin, Hanmer Springs is an alpine resort offering an array of outdoor adventures or revitalising relaxation. The Hanmer Springs Ski Field is a small club area with a tonne of personality and terrain suitable for all abilities. It's just 35 minutes drive from the Hanmer Springs village.

Where to ski in Kaikoura & Hanmer Springs

Mt Lyford

Located on State Highway 70, smack bang between Hanmer Springs and Kaikoura, Mt Lyford is a fun and friendly family operated ski area for all abilities. The upper slopes bask in sunshine and in recent years it’s consistently been the first to open. It’s an uncrowded mountain and a favourite of locals and Christchurch residents alike. A fleet of groomers keep the piste in great condition and wide open faces let you open up your riding on powder days.

Hanmer Springs Ski Area

Hanmer Springs Ski Area, formerly known as Amuri, is a small club ski area with a tonne of personality and terrain suitable for all abilities. A fun, affordable, grassroots experience where the focus is on who you're with and not how hot your gear is. Self-catered day lodge and awesome on-mountain accommodation.

Where to stay in Kaikoura & Hanmer Springs

Maruia Hot Springs

Connect with nature as you sauna and bathe in 100% natural mineral hot springs and take in the views of the river and surrounding mountains. Stay, camp and indulge in the middle of this picturesque national reserve and explore the area on a number of hiking trails around the property. Located in the perfect location just 2.5 hours from Christchurch and one hour from Hanmer Springs turnoff. 
Ph:+64 (0)3 523 8840
Web: maruiahotsprings.nz
E: info@maruiahotsprings.nz
Address:State Highway 7, Lewis Pass 7895

Alpine Adventure Holiday Park

Enjoy and relax at Alpine Adventure Holiday Park's peaceful, parklike grounds. Set in mature, tree-studded grounds on a quiet road, just 2.5km from the village centre of Hanmer Springs, the holiday park is offering a uniquely safe, peaceful environment away from crowds and traffic. 
Ph: 03 315 7112
Web: aahp.co.nz
E: info@aahp.co.nz
Address:  200 Jacks Pass Rd, Hanmer Springs

Robinson Lodge- Hanmer Springs Ski Area

It accommodates up to 64 people in four private rooms and four bunkrooms. All rooms have north-facing windows and heaters (operational during the day when the generator is on). Guests can enjoy stunning views of the snow-covered Inland Kaikoura Range at dawn and hot showers after a day on the mountain.
Ph: 027 434 1806 (in season)
Web: https://www.skihanmer.co.nz/book-your-stay
E: info@skihanmer.co.nz
Address: Hanmer Spring Ski Area access road

Mt Lyford Holiday Homes

Mt Lyford is a peaceful mountain village nestled in the Kaikoura Ranges, offering a quiet escape surrounded by nature. Accommodation is available in authentic log cabins, suitable for all group sizes. Visitors can enjoy a mix of relaxation and activity—whether it's soaking in the views, reading, or enjoying a spa, or swimming in a mountain lake, hiking, biking, or skiing.

Ph: +64 3 315 6523
Web: https://lyfordholidayhomes.co.nz/
Address:1601 Inland Road, Mt Lyford Village 7395

Services & transport in Kaikoura & Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Adventure Centre - Mountain Transport

This is your one stop adventure shop. Ski hire available, with departures to Hanmer Springs Ski Area from 8.30am. Booking recommended.
Ph: 0800 368 7386 or +64 21 225 2292
Web: hanmeradventure.co.nz
Address:20 Conical Hill Rd