Mt Lyford

A major asset to the Kaikoura region is it’s proximity to Mt Lyford Alpine Resort. Less than 1 hours drive from Kaikoura sees you in the carpark of the friendliest skifield in the South Island.  For a fantastic day out in the powder at Kaikoura’s skifield,  read on…

An impressive amount of work has gone into making this field what it is today. Starting off as a High Country Farm Station, it was only in 1986 that due to the high risk from heavy snow it was decided to change the focus of the Farm into making the most of the winter asset i.e. plenty of excellent snow!

The good mix of terrain equally suiting skiers and snowboarders at a beginner, intermediate and advanced level is enhanced with a Wild Ride Terrain Park with a range of rails, quarter pipes and kickers. Two new kickers and the R&R Sport Kaikoura Half Pipe being upsized are the latest addition to the area, shaped with a half pipe shredder it opens the opportunity for some serious tricks and air. Add to this the Broader Cross, Alpine Coaching, and the Wild Ride Terrain Park Series and you have plenty going on!

The  excellent  log  cabin styled accommodation close to the mountain and the pristine alpine environment make staying, and skiing/ boarding on this winter resort a great time.

After a hard day carving it up head down to the Mt Lyford Lodge for a drink and a spa, or drive back to Kaikoura’s accommodation and sometimes wild nightlife!

If Mt Lyford is closed due to weather, the Mt Lyford region also offers Ice skating with Ross and Claudine Barnes in the weekends and school holidays. Cathy from Mt Lyford Horse Treks  offers some of the most accessible high country riding in NZ all year round, and if you’re passing through in the summer, check out  the regions fantastic rivers and picnic areas, all less than 1 hour from Kaikoura.