Accommodation is available on mountain at Mount Olympus at super affordable prices. Alternatively it’s possible to take a day trip to Mt Olympus and stay off-mountain in Christchurch, Methven or surrounding areas.

On-Mountain Accommodation Mt Olympus

Most day-trippers who visit Mount Olympus find that one day is not enough. Staying on-mountain is all part of the “skiwi” club field experience. Another benefit is that occasionally after a big dump the road is closed whilst the ski field remains open. Powderhounds can go “country clubbing” and get all the fresh powder snow to themselves.

Don’t expect 5 star digs when staying on the mountain. The accommodation is basic and will not be to everyone’s liking. Bring your earplugs if you’re a light sleeper (or bring more booze to turn the light sleep into a state of blissful unconsciousness).

Accommodation is commonly organised in ski weeks that start on a Sunday morning and finish the following Saturday afternoon. Ski weeks include accommodation for 6 nights, all meals, lift tickets and ski or snowboard lessons. Designated weeks attempt to get a mix of like-minded people together. Examples include kids’ weeks, “Wrinkle Free” weeks, and weeks for those who need an escape from the real world. It is also possible to book part weeks. Rates are cheaper mid-week than on weekends.

Top Hut
The Top Hut accommodation lodge is the “premier” accommodation at Mount Olympus. There are only 36 beds so book early to avoid disappointment. The capacity in the hot-tub is also limited, but no one can quite remember how many people can fit in the spa!

The lodge is somewhat rustic (to put it nicely), chairs might be missing some upholstery, the beds are bunks, and guests have to contribute to various chores. However on the plus-side, the atmosphere is absolutely legendary, the views are sensational, it’s cheap, it’s completely ski-in ski-out, and did we mention the hot tub?!

Some of the rooms have been renovated whilst the old bunk rooms have everyone packed in like sardines with beds stacked four high. The lowest bed is on the floor and the highest is up in the nose-bleed section (don’t drink too much!). You’ll need to BYO linen or sleeping bag, but if you’re really desperate, one of the club members might be able to find some spare linen hanging around. And definitely do not take a suitcase if staying at the Top Hut. There is no goods lift so this is backpack-only territory.

Bottom Hut
The other accommodation at Mount Olympus is the Bottom Hut, which is located next to the lower carpark, about 3km down the access road from the top cark park and first access tow. The Bottom Hut is not ski-in ski-out.

The lodging here is really, really basic and is self-catering only. The hut sleeps 8 people and has some similarities to a backcountry hiking hut, except it has a simple kitchen and indoor shower. There are portaloos out the back (BYO toilet paper as there is absolutely no guarantee that any will be supplied), and if you’re keen for a bath and a very novel experience, there’s an outdoor wood fired bath tub!! One of the great benefits of staying here is that it is really really cheap.

Accommodation Near Mt Olympus

Terrace Downs (1:00hr drive)

Terrace Downs Resort provides up-market accommodation options including self-contained units and houses. The views to Mt Hutt and across the golf course are absolutely stunning. Terrace Downs is located on Coleridge Road, Windwhistle, on the way to Mt Olympus but an hour away from the ski area. 

You can look at options for the Terrace Downs Resort here.

Springfield (1:00hr drive)

Slightly further afield is the rural town of Springfield. A nice option for accommodation is the Springfield Lodge & Motel or see other Springfield accommodation options.

Methven (1:20hr drive - 72km)

Methven is 72km from Mt Olympus, which equates to a 75 to 90 minute drive depending upon road conditions (and the shortcuts taken). One of the advantages of staying in Methven is that it provides the flexibility to sample various other ski areas such as Mt Hutt, Broken River or Craigieburn. If powder hounds need a rest from the rope-tows the other option is to go heli-skiing with Methven Heli-skiing. Methven also has a good variety of restaurants and bars which is another plus for staying there.

Methven Accommodation Listings 

Christchurch (1:50 drive)

Another option could be to stay in Christchurch and commute each day. See Christchurch accommodation here.