Broken River ski area is a New Zealand club field that caters to those with an adventurous spirit. It’s a complete no frills “ski resort” where there is not a day spa or boutique in sight.

Broken River has a remote backcountry feel to it with great ski terrain, uncrowded slopes and good quality snow. However the Broken River experience isn’t just about the skiing and boarding. It’s a place where you can experience the traditional “skiwi” culture, with back-to-basics fun and a friendly atmosphere minus the hardcore attitude.

Broken River is a bit of a hidden gem amongst the Canterbury club fields. Its next door neighbour, Craigieburn ski area, seems to get all the international attention whilst BR flies under the radar. Broken River has the same great snow as Craigieburn Valley. The only differences are that BR has less suicidal runs and some milder terrain making it more suitable for families or people who don’t need to constantly scare themselves. BR also has fewer visitors than Craigieburn, so the fresh powder lasts longer.

And one of the best things about BR is that it’s the ski field most likely to remain open in the Canterbury region. The road is less inclined to be closed because it’s not prone to avalanches, and the ski area itself can remain open on windy days because the bowls are generally protected from the prevailing winds. Broken River doesn’t have the nickname of Mt Shut!

Broken River Ski and Snowboard Terrain

Broken River consists of two large bowls that are sheltered from the wind and catch the powder. The Broken River ski area is serviced by five high capacity rope-tows, two of which are suitable for learners. Much of the terrain is suitable for advanced and expert riders with steep basins, chutes, drop-offs and other slopes for the adventurous. A substantial component of the terrain is ideal for off-piste intermediate skiers and boarders. There is also a small beginners’ area near the day lodge, although this probably isn’t the best place for complete novices because it’s too tricky to get up to the beginners’ area.

If the 300 hectares at BR isn’t enough for you, take a short hike (in the right conditions) and head over to Craigieburn for a few runs. There are also ski touring opportunities from Broken River.

Where is Broken River?

Broken River ski area is located in the Craigieburn Range adjacent to Craigieburn Valley ski area, 110km (90 mins) north-west of Christchurch and 47km from the little town of Springfield. The access road off highway 73 has the potential to be somewhat perilous; the type you don’t take a campervan on. If you don’t want to undertake the drive yourself, there are a couple of private transport operators. From the car park you can catch the inclinometer cable car (which is very progressive for a club field!), and from there you have to take a 15 minute hike up to the first tow. Consider this as a little warm-up for the day’s activities.

See our getting to Broken River page for more information.

Accommodation

There are three levels of very affordable Broken River accommodation ranging from backpackers to basic, with differing degrees of catering provided. The lodges are generally ski-in and are only a 5-10 minute walk to the bottom tow. Staying on-mountain is all part of the experience. Alternatively you can stay in Springfield or Castle Hill.

Broken River Facilities

The facilities are somewhat basic and typical of a NZ club field. Broken River provides very inexpensive ski and snowboard instruction and there is a day lodge which has a canteen selling basic lunches, snacks and drinks. Ski and snowboard equipment hire is not available on-mountain, but those without a nutcracker harness can borrow one from the lift ticket office. Don’t expect any other frills such as shops, massage services (unless you BYO) or sleigh rides!

Why Ski or Snowboard at Broken River?

Broken River is a good all rounder as far as club fields go. So long as you don’t need any flashy resort trimmings, or are a first-timer, BR is the place to go for an inexpensive ski trip. For families it’s particularly good, especially considering that all kids under the age of 11 ski for free making it cheap as chips!

Broken River doesn’t have the range of gnarly terrain that can be found at Craigieburn and BR may not be “The Big One”, but they are certainly “The Friendly One”.