Broken River

Ski – Snowboard – Hike

Broken River, or BR to the locals, has been described as a hidden gem but to be fair, it’s not that well hidden. It’s a short drive from Christchurch, has a good access road so long as you’re prepared and they have a welcoming atmosphere.

BR has a couple of trump cards and you find the fist shortly after arriving at the car park. What use to be a 20 minute walk is now a 2 minute gondola ride on the Tyndall Tramway through scenic beech forest. At the top of the tramway you’ll find the ticket office and on-mountain accommodation. To get to the lift it’s a short walk up the “Stairway to Heaven”. If you’ve never used a rope tow BR is a great mountain to learn at. With a bit or persistence and some pointers from locals and staff you’ll soon master the art. If you find the first tow too tough simply walk up to the Palmer Lodge where you’ll find the learner tow which is much easier to practice on.

The second trump card is found on the Palmer Lodge deck, the communal hot plate has seen many culinary rivalries and gourmet burgers dished up. Bring a picnic or visit the canteen and watch the on-mountain action while you enjoy lunch from the best seat in the house.

When it comes time to ski BR offers has plenty of rolling bowls, and steep chutes. You’ll find runs to challenge adventurous beginners to experts. Allan’s Basin’s tranquil, back country atmosphere and untracked, long powder runs are a must. The field is well sheltered from the wind and holds plenty of snow well into late spring. If you’re new to BR check out the video below, it’s a great intro to the field and gives you a good idea of what you’re in for.

Ski Area

Terrain – 5% Beginner 45% Intermediate, 50% Advanced
Tows – 3 high-capacity rope tows and 2 learner tows
Ski Terrain – 175ha
Vertical – 500m
Scheduled night skiing on Access / Rugby tow
Grooming – beginner runs (known as an off piste area)

Facilities

No ski hire.
Towbelt hire on the mountain. Glove protectors & gloves for sale.
Ski, Telemark and Snowboard Instruction
Palmer Lodge is open to all with communal kitchen & BBQ. Food & drinks at the canteen.
Accommodation – 3 on-mountain lodges situated amongst beech forest 10 minute walk from the tows.

Location, Access & Tyndall Tramway Info

Located in the Craigieburn Range – 7km from Castle Hill Village and 110km (90mins) from Christchurch on SH 73. Please check daily snow report for road conditions. The Tyndall Tramway operates daily from the car park to accommodation lodges, 8.30 to 11.30 am and 3.30 – 5.30pm.