Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city on the south island of New Zealand and the jumping off point for a number of ski resorts. The most important of these is Mt Hutt which is located a bit over an hours drive to the west of the city. Christchurch is a terrific place to start a New Zealand skiing holiday. It has an international and a domestic airport and you can fly in from many overseas destinations including Australia. Many people come here to stay in Christchurch accommodation and take the shuttle service to Mt Hutt on a daily basis as there is no on snow accommodation. Along the road to Arthurs Pass there are several more small ski resorts that are great to visit for a day.

Christchurch has all of the holiday facilities that you would expect. If you plan to tour by campervan or motor home then there are a number of companies that you can use who have depots in Christchurch. Similarly if you want to hire a rental car there are lots of options. Many tourists arrive in Christchurch by air, hire a car and then drive on to stay in Queenstown accommodation and ski in the southern ski fields. Christchurch accommodation leaves nothing to be desired. There is everything from backpacker hostels right through to five star hotels and resorts. Clearwater resort has magnificent, self contained villas and one of New Zealand’s best golf courses. It really is a fantastic place to stay. Around the harbour area you will find plenty of great accommodation and all walking are distance to a choice of really top restaurants and cafes.

The city is known for its beauty and architecture. There are beautiful parks and gardens to enjoy, excellent museums and attractive and historical churches and government buildings. There is always plenty to do either in the city or within a day’s drive. Christchurch is a great place to start a New Zealand Ski or snowboard holiday.