Access is by road. You can drive north from Christchurch and south from the coastal town of Kaikoura. Another option is to take a shuttle bus from Lyford Lodge to reach the ski field.

Canterbury · New Zealand

Mount Lyford

Q: When is the ski/ snowboard season in Mount Lyford?

The snow season typically runs from June to October, depending on snow conditions.

Q: Is snow real in Mount Lyford?

The snow at Mount Lyford is real. It receives natural snowfall during the winter months, providing genuine snow conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Q: What accommodation options are available?

Mount Lyford offers various accommodation options both at the ski resort and in the surrounding area. Some common types of accommodations available are lodges, holiday homes & cabins, guesthouses, and more. Ready to secure your stay? Book your accommodation !

Q: Are there ski and snowboard lessons available?

They provide lessons and programs that are designed to suit all ages and stages. Make the most of your winter adventure with ski and snowboarding lessons. Find out more

Q: Can I rent ski and snowboard equipment?

There are Ski and snowboard rentals where visitors can rent skis & board equipment.

Q: Can I purchase passes in advance?

Yes, passes can be purchased online in advance, allowing visitors to save time and ensure availability. Experience your preferred getaway just a few clicks away.

Q: Are there child-friendly facilities and childcare services available?

Mt Lyford does not possess an on-site childcare facility. Nevertheless, there are several nearby childcare service providers available. It is advisable to consult your lodging establishment for recommendations in this regard.

Mount Lyford Ski Area is a charming ski resort located in New Zealand's Southern Alps.

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Where to stay

Beds near Mount Lyford

Compare ski-in ski-out lodges, chalets and village hotels near the lifts.

Search stays on Booking.com

The mountain

Profile of George's Accelerator, the mapped run with the most vertical: 0.4km long, 221m drop.

Skiable terrain: 300ha
Runs: 208km in total
Lifts: 66 surface
Longest run: 0.8km

Runs by ability

Beginner 8%
Intermediate 71%
Advanced 21%

By length of mapped runs.

Run, lift and elevation data © OpenStreetMap contributors, via OpenSkiMap.

About Mount Lyford

Mount Lyford Ski Area is a charming ski resort located in New Zealand's Southern Alps. Situated near the town of Waiau, about 1.5 hours' drive from Christchurch, it offers a picturesque alpine setting and a range of skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The resort is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse terrain suitable for all skill levels. Mount Lyford features a mix of groomed runs, gentle slopes for beginners, and challenging trails for more experienced riders. Its relatively uncrowded slopes provide a relaxed and enjoyable environment for visitors. Mount Lyford Ski Area provides on-mountain accommodation options, including lodges and chalets, allowing visitors to stay in close proximity to the slopes. The resort's friendly and welcoming atmosphere contributes to a memorable and enjoyable winter getaway.

Mount Lyford Video

Mount Lyford FAQs

Where is Mount Lyford located?

It is located in New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Situated near the town of Waiau, about a 1.5-hour drive from Christchurch.

When is the ski/ snowboard season in Mount Lyford?

Is snow real in Mount Lyford?

How do I get there?

What accommodation options are available?

Are there ski and snowboard lessons available?

Can I rent ski and snowboard equipment?

Can I purchase passes in advance?

Are there child-friendly facilities and childcare services available?

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Season status

Typical season months. Each resort page has its own opening dates.

Country	Status	Season	JFMAMJJASOND
USA	In season	Nov – Apr	JFMAMJJASOND
Canada	In season	Nov – Apr	JFMAMJJASOND
Japan	Opens Dec	Dec – Apr	JFMAMJJASOND
Switzerland	Opens Dec	Dec – Apr	JFMAMJJASOND
France	Opens Dec	Dec – Apr	JFMAMJJASOND
Austria	Opens Dec	Dec – Apr	JFMAMJJASOND
Italy	Opens Dec	Dec – Apr	JFMAMJJASOND
South Korea	Opens Dec	Dec – Apr	JFMAMJJASOND
Australia	Closed until Jun	Jun – Sep	JFMAMJJASOND
New Zealand	Closed until Jun	Jun – Oct	JFMAMJJASOND
Argentina	Closed until Jun	Jun – Sep	JFMAMJJASOND
Chile	Closed until Jun	Jun – Oct	JFMAMJJASOND

Compare 265 ski resorts in 12 countries: snow forecasts, season dates, snow cams, trail maps and where to stay.

Images belong to their owners and are used for information only. If you own one and would like it removed, contact us and we'll take it down.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors via OpenSkiMap. Forecasts from OpenWeather. Some icons by Freepik from flaticon.com.

Northern hemisphere

Southern hemisphere

USANov – Apr

CanadaNov – Apr

JapanDec – Apr

SwitzerlandDec – Apr

FranceDec – Apr

AustriaDec – Apr

ItalyDec – Apr

South KoreaDec – Apr

AustraliaJun – Sep

New ZealandJun – Oct

ArgentinaJun – Sep

ChileJun – Oct