The Ski Resort
One of New Zealand's sunniest ski areas, family-operated Mt Lyford is suited perfectly to ski newbies as well as intermediate skiers and snowboarders. However, there is plenty of challenging terrain off the Terako Rope Tow.
A hidden spot in New Zealand's ski fields, relatively few skiers and riders appreciate the mountain's terrain served by 7 lifts. Skiing the main face of Mt Terako, which is also the highest point making for great views, you will get the big mountain feel of the US or Europe. Besides, Mt Lyford offers nice beginner terrain, a wide range of intermediate slopes, some terrain park features and hike-to terrain. The ski area's day lodge provides rental equipment and a café, toilets, a ticket office, and the ski school.
Interesting facts
- The vertical drop from summit to base is 501 m. The average difference in altitude between base and summit of Ski Resorts in New Zealand is 471 m. The highest point of the track is 1,750 m above sea level.
- Snow coverage is usually best during February, offering an average snow depth of 500 cm at summit elevation and 0 cm at the base.
- Mt Lyford features 20 sunny days on average per season. The average for all ski Resorts in New Zealand is 15 sunny days. August is the sunniest month with an average of 12 sunny days. This makes the ski resort one of the 5 sunniest in New Zealand.
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Infrastructure & Rental
Skischools
Number of Ski Rental
Getting here
Located on the Alpine Pacific Triangle touring route, Mt Lyford is two hours north of Christchurch. Travel up Highway 7 and then turn off into Highway 70. Lyford Lodge marks the entrance road to Mt Lyford Ski Area. A shuttle bus at Mt Lyford Lodge leaves every morning at 8.30 am for those who do not feel like driving up the road on their own or who do not have a vehicle at all.
