Christchurch is situated in Canterbury region of the South Island, and is the second largest city of New Zealand. It represents the getaway to Antarctica, while lying next to Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
Overall the city is surrounded by Avon, Heathcote and Waimakariri Rivers, and the Canterbury Plains. The climate is considered to be temperate, with cool and mild summers (maximum temperature 23°C/73.4°F), and cold and frosty winters (temperatures fall below 0°C/32°F frequently).
One of the biggest ski areas near Christchurch is Craigieburn Valley. It is situated near Craigieburn Forest Park (in the heart of Southern Alps) and is 90 min drive from Christchurch at 110 km/68 mi. The site is open from late June to late October and offers a great destination for the lovers of off-piste/back country snowboarding.
Craigieburn Valley, with its varied terrain, is mostly addressed to intermediate and advanced snowboarders who love steep and deep snowboarding, with many natural jumps, drop-offs and lips, and telemark snowboarding opportunities. Don’t miss the legendary 600 m/1968 ft vertical descent in Middle basin, if you are an expert. Enjoy the breathtaking alpine view!
Note: Snowboarding equipment rental is not available on spot.
