Area Profile
Craigieburn Valley
Craigieburn Valley is located in the heart of New Zealand's Southern Alps. Craigieburn is located 1.5 hrs from Christchurch. It has achieved cult status amongst skiers with its wide open powder bowls, steep narrow chutes, and its infamous 600 meter vertical drop in the Middle basin. There is unfortunately no terrain for beginners or ski hire facilities on the mountain.
The highest peak is Mount Enys (2194 metres) and the winter snowline lies around 1400 metres. There is downhill skiing on 5 small ski areas with the chance for ski touring between. Most of the ski areas are operated by ski clubs, with lodge accommodation on the mountain. These ski clubs sell Ski Weeks, which are all-inclusive packages of accommodation, food and lift fees. Staying at the ski club lodges can be great fun, good value and a handy base.
Snow conditions are usually best from mid July to late September.