Roundhill Ski Area

Roundhill Ski Area “Australasia’s Highest Vertical”

Roundhill Ski Area is situated directly above Lake Tekapo and offers spectacular views of Aoraki Mount Cook and the surrounding MacKenzie basin. This provides the perfect setting for a relaxing day skiing or snowboarding.

After a scenic 35 minute drive from Lake Tekapo Village you arrive at our large car park which is located right next to the ski slopes. Roundhill basks in all day sun so don’t forget your sunscreen and goggles!

Roundhill is the ideal place to try skiing or snowboarding for the first time, with a huge beginners slope serviced by 2 beginner rope tows and a platter lift. The wide slope and gentle pitch makes it easy and fun to get up and going. We have expert ski and board instructors on hand if required with group lessons and private lessons available.

Once you’ve mastered the basics or if you’re looking for something more challenging you can to one of the T-Bars and make the most of the wide undulating intermediate runs, with lots of fun, rolling terrain and a pitch that’s exciting but not intimidating.

For advanced skiers and riders, we have the Heritage Express Rope Tow, 1440m long with 632m vertical rise, this gives access to the Two Thumb range and some of the best terrain in NZ. With chutes, gullies and lots of steep stuff and a top elevation of 2133m, the Heritage Express has brought big mountain skiing and riding to Roundhill and boasts Australasia’s highest vertical.

Roundhill’s popular terrain park. ‘Central Park’ has been designed for people of all ages with progressive features ranging from gentle rollers and butter boxes for beginners to large features for the more adventurous. Give it a go and try something different – everyone is welcome.

The Two Thumb Café and Bar is a cozy haven. The large sundeck opens out to offer expansive views of Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo, and all the action on the slopes above. Or check out “von Brown Hut”, a secret hideaway stashed near the top of the T-Bar where you can sit and relax.

Facilities

Benzeenees Snowsports School – Internationally qualified instructors for all ability levels.
Two Thumb Café and Bar – Modern, comfortable licensed café serving hearty fare with ample seating indoors and out.
Von Brown Hut – Refreshment hut located towards the top of the main T-Bar.
Ski Hire – A modern range of skis, boards, boots, harnesses, nutcrackers. Toboggan hire also available.
Central Park – Terrain features including boxes, rails and jumps
Extensive snowmaking area

Ski Area

Terrain – 20% Beginner, 45% Intermediate, 35% Advanced.
Ideal for – All ability levels
Tows – 2 T-bars, 1.4km Rope tow, Platter Lift & 2 beginners rope tows.
Elevation – 2133m
Base – 1350m
Vertical drop – 783m
Grooming – two groomers ensure a smooth corduroy finish every morning.
Lift Pass – Adult $75, Student $55, Youth $45 (13-18), Child $36 (U12). Children 5 and under receive free day lift passes. Half day rates available from 12:15pm.

Accommodation

In the Tekapo Township you’ll find a large array of accommodation providers. Ranging from backpacker style to luxury bed and breakfast, any budget or preference can be catered for. Check the destination section of the guide for our recommendations on accommodation.

Location and Access

Roundhill is located 35 minutes from Tekapo village. Travelling time is approximately three hours from Christchurch or Queenstown, or an hour and a half from Timaru. The access road gently meanders 8km from lake level up to 1350 vertical meters to the base facilities. Campervans and buses access Roundhill with ease.
For daily road conditions, phone 03 680 6977.