Ski Canterbury and Mount Cook Mackenzie

With its intriguing mix of heritage, innovation and nature, Christchurch is a great place to begin your ski holiday. Before heading inland to the slopes take some time to explore this fascinating city.

Meander down the Avon aboard an old-fashioned punt, wander through the botanical gardens in Hagley Park or spend the day biking in the Port Hills. Further afield, Banks Peninsula is a great place to meet friendly wildlife. Take a dolphin cruise in Akaroa or visit New Zealand's largest mainland blue penguin colony.

Up early today for a day of skiing at Porters, only 1 hour from Christchurch City.  With magical views overlooking Lake Coleridge and nestled in the heart of the high country, enjoy the snow and local hospitality.

After your day on the slopes, spend the night in Methven. Over the winter months, this rustic village plays host to skiers from all over the world. Call into the Blue or Brown Pubs (they’re located opposite each other on the main street!) and enjoy a cosy night out.

You can’t miss Mount Hutt this morning, standing proudly over Methven at an elevation of 2086 metres. Head up to the slopes for a day exploring the wide-open basin. Grab some lunch at Huber’s Hutt or the Sky High Café between zooms around the slopes.

Mt Hutt and Methven warmly welcome families and there are some great kids’ free deals on the slopes, in accommodation, dining and transport – all with a paying adult. Spend tonight in Methven once again.

Drive south towards the expansive wilderness of the Mackenzie region, home to Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain. There is no skiing on Aoraki Mount Cook, but the three boutique ski fields in the region (Ohau, Roundhill and Mt Dobson) more than makeup for it.

The village of Tekapo sits on the edge of a glacial-blue lake. From here, you can take scenic flights, go ice skating, visit the tube park or simply relax at the Tekapo Hot Springs. The region is also home to the International Dark Sky Reserve. Mount John Observatory gives you the opportunity to explore this magical night sky.

Head to Roundhill ski field today, just 30 minutes from Tekapo.

Roundhill has a massive beginner’s area as well as some wide, perfectly groomed intermediate runs. There is also a great park for freestylers with jumps, rollers, rails and boxes. For the more adventurous, head up the world’s longest and steepest rope tow and see what Australasia’s biggest vertical drop is all about.

Mount Dobson ski field is located to the north of Tekapo, en route to Fairlie. Ski and ride on natural dry powder snow. There's a huge learners’ area for those just starting out and open uncrowded runs for everyone to enjoy.

Mount Dobson provides a great balance of groomed trails and off-piste for the more adventurous, with a large area of developed trails as well as miles of fresh untracked snow. The field has everything you need for the day, including ski clothing, equipment rental, a ski school and cafe.

From Mount Dobson, travel on to Christchurch for the night.

If you have time at the end of your journey, take a day trip out to the French colonial settlement of Akaroa, just one hour away. The drive is beautifully scenic and the town is known for its delicious French cuisine, cute cottages, and excellent wildlife encounters. This is a great place to see the world's smallest dolphin, Hector's.