Selwyn NZ

Bounded by braided rivers, the sensational Selwyn District ranges from the Pacific Ocean, across the Canterbury Plains, to the spectacular Southern Alps. Whether you visit for a day or stay for an entire winter, Selwyn is an amazing playground for all outdoor enthusiasts.

The district starts just 10 minutes from Christchurch. Travelling through the dramatic Great Alpine Highway you will pass through rural and alpine towns, including Darfield, Springfield, Castle Hill and Arthur's Pass. Arthur's Pass has one of the most beautiful Alpine villages.

The Selwyn District is home to six of the Chill mountains. Cheeseman and Porters are two family favourites of Christchurch residents with terrain suitable for all levels of skiing. Broken River has a friendly atmosphere, social & sunny day lodge and great terrain.  Mt Olympus is one of those ski areas with an impressive reputation, its terrain is amazing and it boasts the highest hot tub in NZ. Craigieburn is know for it's big terrain and hearty rope tows. Finally, Temple Basin is a rewarding and exhilarating place to stay, ski, and ride, it provides total detachment from 'life in the fast lane' but with all the comforts of home.

Where to ski in Selwyn

Porters Alpine Resort

Porters is a long-time favourite of Christchurch residents. There’s a chairlift and 3 consecutive T-bars to take you skyward with views to Lake Coleridge and Mt Olympus from the top.

Cheeseman

Cheeseman has a distinctive family friendly atmosphere as well as offering diverse terrain for all abilities and loads of great facilities. The main runs are accessed by 2 T-bars lifts and there are easy trails down courtesy of extensive grooming.

Broken River

BR, as it’s known to the locals, has a friendly atmosphere, social & sunny day lodge and great terrain. Add to that the quirky access via an alpine railway and you’ve got something quite unique. The day lodge is a great place to relax and watch the action. There is some beginner terrain and plenty of variety for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders.

Craigieburn

Located in the heart of New Zealand's Southern Alps, where the ups are good, and the downs are even better. Steep narrow chutes, wide open powder bowls, uncrowded runs or just a place to take it easy in the awesome vista of the Craigieburn Range. If you are an advanced or expert rider then skiing The Big One at Craigieburn is your holy grail!

Mt Olympus

Mt Olympus, run by the Windwhistle Winter Sports Club (WWSC), is one of those ski areas with an impressive reputation. The terrain is amazing, the access road an adventure, the coffee is good and it boasts the highest hot tub in NZ.

Temple Basin

Temple Basin is a rewarding and exhilarating place to stay, ski and ride. Like any good reward with skiing there is usually a hike involved. A ‘gondola’ (goodslift) can be found at the base, on the main highway, but it only carries your gear. There’s no access road so the 40-60 minute hike up will get the blood pumping and legs ready for skiing and riding.

Ski The Clubbies

Have you ever wondered what skiing was like in the ‘good old days’, before mammoth queues, impersonable crowds, untracked powder that lasts as long as it takes to eat the lunch that you’ve had to take out a second mortgage just to buy on the mountain? Cue ‘The Clubbies’. Step back in time (not too far though, our pioneers used to walk a long way just to strap on their planks) and experience the last frontier of skiing at New Zealand's club ski fields, without the disinfected, disconnected feeling that often taints modern day alpine experiences. Read more at skitheclubbies.nz

Where to stay in Selwyn

Smylies Accommodation

Looking after snow lovers for 30 years, shared rooms, private super king en suite. Dinner, bed, breakfast. Book online.

 

Ph: +64 3 318 4740
Web: smylies.co.nz
E: stay@smylies.co.nz
Address: 5653 West Coast Rd, Springfield

Springfield Motel & Lodge

Motel units & Lodge perfect for singles, couples and groups, all amenities including Free Wireless, DVD Library & drying room. You’ll be feeling right at home.

 

Ph: +64 3 318 4018
Web: Book Springfield Motel and Lodge
E: Springfieldmotel@gmail.com
Address: 37 Tramway Road, Springfield

 

Darfield Hotel

The Darfield Hotel is situated in the heart of the township and is located on the Great Alpine Highway close to the Southern Alps and ski fields.

P:03 318 8325
Web:https://www.darfieldhotel.co.nz/
E:stay@darfieldhotel.co.nz
Address: Main West Coast Highway 73, South Terrace, Darfield

Porters Lodge

Porters Lodge has comfortable, bunk-style family accommodation set against a beautiful mountain backdrop. Nestled at the base of Porters Ski Area in the Craigieburn range, so perfectly located whether you're there for the skiing, biking, hiking, the stunning views or simply passing by.

Ph: +64 3 318 4011
Web: portersalpineresort.com
E: lodge@skiporters.co.nz
Address: State Highway 73, Castle Hill 7580

 

Where to Eat and Drink in Selwyn

Thirsty Acres Kirwee

In the spirit of the pioneers who once brought water from the hills and rivers to quench these “Thirsty Acres,” they proudly continue the tradition of providing refreshment to both locals and travelers alike. Guests are invited to step inside, enjoy an ice-cold beer, savor a delicious menu, and relax in the company of friends.

P: 033181814
Web: https://thirstyacres.co.nz/
Address:1265 Courtney Road-Great Alpine Highway No 73, Kirwee

Where to Shop in Selwyn

Gnomes

Gnomes Darfield is conveniently located in Darfield, Canterbury, New Zealand. It's situated on Highway 73, making it easily accessible on the way to all Canterbury ski areas. The store offers a wide range of retail equipment, clothing, and accessories, custom boot fitting, as well as a large rental fleet, including demo skis and snowboards.

P: 033188433
Web:  https://gnomes.co.nz/
Address: 26 South Terrace, Darfield, 7510