Ohau

Resort Overview

Ohau means 'a place of wind.'  Ohau is a small commercial ski field near the Otago and Canterbury regions. Ohau has some of the best scenic views in New Zealand. From the summit you have a spectacular view of the Southern Alps and Lake Ohau.  The mountain caters to all abilities, whether you're just beginning or whether you're an expert.  The Ohau lodge at the lake is the closest accommdation.  The NZski pass which entitles you to one day of skiing at Ohau.

Location

Ohau ski field is located right in the heart of the Southern Alps between Twizel and Omarama.   

Where you can stay

The Lake Ohau Lodge is a 72 unit Lodge with warm, centrally heated, comfortable accommodation on the shore of Lake Ohau 20 minutes from the snowfield with views of Glen Mary Glacier, Aoraki Mt Cook and the Ben Ohau Range.

The lodge offers a dinner, bed & breakfast package and there are 4 standards of accommodation for you to choose from.

Facilities include restaurant, bar, games room, spa pools and drying room.  Staying at the Lake Ohau Lodge will complete a unique and truly memorable South Island skiing experience.

How to get there

To Lake Ohau Lodge - Ohau ski field is in a pretty remote area. If you are planning to fly, you are most likely to fly into Christchurch Airport. Then rent a car in one of the many car hire businesses. Ohau Ski Area is located 275km south of Christchurch. 

From Lake Ohau Lodge - situated at the mountain base, right on the lake the ski field is located 15 minutes away.  Most people drive up to Ohau on the unsealed road.  Chains may be required in bad weather.  A shuttle runs to the snowfield at 9.15am and returns at the end of the day. 

On the trail facts

Ohau Ski field has about 1,500 acres of terrain, therefore you defiantly won't lack terrain. The snow gets fairly deep, 12 feet per winter making it a great riding surface. The mountain has a smaller number of trails and lifts.   Ohau is a family friendly ski hill with a delightful and great chance to spend time in nature will keep you coming back.

For beginners the snow mat is right there. Arranging a lesson is a good idea to start off with and there is plenty of good rental gear.

With the installation of the double chair lift a couple of years ago and some slope grooming most intermediates are now able to enjoy the flat wide slopes at the top of the mountain and cruise down the Boulevard very comfortably.  There is some great hiking around the tops for the more adventurous accessing the best powder snow and the views from there are really magnificent and definitely worth the effort.

Click4snow picks

Après Ski

 Ohau ski field only has one café on the mountain. It is a nice place to sit down, take a rest and enjoy a hot or cold beverage.  It's only 20 minutes back to the Lake Ohau Lodge where you can drop your gear and head for the hot outside spa pools where you can sip on a gluhwein and take in the dramatic sunset as Mount Cook turns pink.

After freshening up the friendly staff will cook whilst you, your friend and family relax and revive on one of the long tables overlooking the lake and why not finishes the night in front of the open fire.

(There is the option of an early dining time for small children if families wish)