Temple Basin is an amazing ski and snowboarding area in the middle of the Southern Alps, surrounded by the beauty of the alpine Arthur’s Pass National Park.

The quintessential clubbie, it’s all about fun and good times. The regulars are friendly and welcoming, at Temple to enjoy the wonderful snow and fantastic conditions, and they often have some of the best skiing or boarding experiences of their lives – in fact, many international skiers rank it as one of the best areas in the world.

The field’s history is steeped in adventure. Before World War Two, most skiers would jump on the ‘Perishable’ at Christchurch train station, riding to Arthur’s Pass on the train that carried fruit and vegetables to the West Coast. They’d hop off and begin the hike to the field at midnight, arriving at the field at dawn.

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These days, the hike from the main highway only takes 50 minutes, and you can load your gear onto a goods lift and walk unencumbered, but the spirit of adventure remains. The mountain is criss-crossed by sweeping blue runs and adventurous blacks, with a few welcoming green areas down low. Once you’re done for the day, the mountain’s facilities are comfort central, with a cosy on-field lodge (with a chef) high up in the Main Divide. Waking up on what feels like the top of the world is well worth the effort.

Quick Facts

• Ski & board Fantastic terrain high in the Southern Alps, ungroomed runs for all levels
• Location 150km from Christchurch
• Season July – October
• Access road Sealed road to goods lift, hike to skifield
• Ratings Beginner 15%, intermediate 45%, advanced 40%

Essentials

• Highest point 1,752m
• Vertical 430m
• Skiable area 320ha
•  Lifts 3 x rope tows
• On-field ski/snowboard hire Yes
• Tuition Ski, snowboard and mountain safety
• Lift passes $60 adults, $30 club members
• Package deals Accommodation and ski packages
• On-field accommodation Yes

templebasin.co.nz