Ski Selwyn as a Student

By Max Groer

Ski bum or first-timer, there’s no better time to be on the snow than as a student. Packed car shuffles, frozen muesli bar lunches, and unmatched stoke all contribute, creating a unique experience – one you’ll talk about for years to come.

As a first-year student at the University of Canterbury, it has been very exciting getting involved with CUSSC (Canterbury University Snow Sports Club). I’ve met a lot of like-minded people from across the country, all brought together by the craving for some fresh powder and bluebird days.

I grew up skiing at Porters – a great place to learn and progress – and have enjoyed skiing the Selwyn Six for the last few years with the Chill Pass. It’s fair to say that I’m a local through and through. It's exciting to have some new mates to get out on the slopes with. I’ve met numerous people from around the country who are unsure of what ski pass they should buy. Many of them have purchased Mt Hutt ski passes, unaware of the six Selwyn ski areas and the quality of skiing that these club fields provide.

Getting on the rope tow at Temple Basin.

All of the fields in Selwyn are unique, we are very lucky to be able to choose from six, with the closest being under 90 minutes drive (UC to Porters). These fields are special, not only because they are largely run by volunteers, but also because of their location. Deep in the mountains, incredible views, yet so close to Christchurch. 

So, which field should you ski at? Here are some tips and recommendations targeted at students on a budget.

In my eyes, skill level is the biggest factor in choosing where to go. Anyone with even just a few days of experience will enjoy skiing at any of the Selwyn Six, but to maximise the experience, you should be selective about where you ski.

Beginners should look at going to Cheeseman or Porters. Both have a variety of slopes with the easiest options being perfect for first timers, the hardest for experts, and everything in between. Both have cheap rental options as well. I have spent a lot of time at Porters and have never been bored; there is a huge amount of variety in their slopes.

Skiing great snow at Broken River.

Broken River also has great slopes for learning, and is a great option for those who are learning to use a nutcracker, they have two easy rope tows, which are great for practice. This is a very popular option for intermediate skiers wanting to step up their game, through to pros seeking big terrain. An extra benefit is that Broken River has a tussock base beneath the snow as opposed to rock, meaning it can be skied with much lower snow levels.

Craigieburn, Mt Olympus, and Temple Basin will be best enjoyed by intermediate/advanced skiers. These fields (and Broken River) host annual freeride events and various skill programmes, attracted by the terrain and good vibes.

Keep to sleep in the mountains? Ski Area Lodges and accommodation frequently get overlooked as people just assume it will cost an arm and a leg. However, in reality, sleeping on the mountain can save you driving time and money.

So what’s the cheapest? What’s the nicest? Best bang for your buck?  The cheapest option around is the Mt Olympus bottom hut ($30 per night), your excessive student loan will thank you for this option (think self-catered, warm clothes and sleeping bag, but thankfully a fireplace). Forest Lodge at the base of Cheeseman is also a good option, where you BYO your own food. Broken River has Whitestar Lodge, also self-catered. Porters Lodge has bed only shared bunkroom lodging as well.

Bunkroom at Mt Olympus's Top Hut

For those who go by the phrase “money will return, but memories won’t”, lodge accommodation is calling your name. All six mountains offer catered and heated options with comfy mattresses. This is usually around $130 per night (varies between fields), a bargain compared to what you’d pay in Queenstown.  However, if you’re a CUSSC member, you should spend a night at Temple Basin. General season accommodation costs $65 per night, and event weekends are $85 per night (inclusive of food and fuel for the weekend)!

Gearing up for a great night at Temple Basin.

Lastly, what are the best eating options on the mountain? Let’s be honest, ski field meals are notoriously expensive, but there are some good options and alternatives out there. 

Pizza from Palmer Lodge at Broken River

I have a few personal favourites. I am a massive fan of buying a pizza at Broken River, delicious, filling, and not too expensive. At Mt Olympus, you can book a delicious full size chef made meal. Even on a student budget, both of these options are very worth it. If homemade lunch sounds more like you, Craigieburn has a toastie maker in the top hut. My last go-to, frankfurters, kept hot in a thermos. These are super easy to prepare, delicious to eat, and can be enjoyed anywhere.

Chef-prepared meal at Mt Olympus.