Mount Cheeseman Ski Area Ski Resort Overview

Mount Cheeseman is the kind of ski area that quietly wins people over. Tucked into the Craigieburn Range and just 90 minutes from Christchurch, it combines the warmth of a classic club field with facilities that make life easy, especially for families and mixed-ability groups.

It’s friendly without being bland, adventurous without being intimidating, and one of the most approachable club ski fields in the South Island.

Easy access, low stress skiing

Cheeseman’s access is a big part of its appeal. You can drive right up to the base area, unload your gear within metres of the lifts, and be on snow quickly. No long walks, no rope tow learning curve, and no nutcrackers required.

Two T bars and a learners’ rope tow sit right next to the base lodges, keeping everything compact and efficient. For a club field, it’s refreshingly straightforward.

Terrain that suits most skiers

Mount Cheeseman offers a well balanced mix of terrain. Around half the mountain is intermediate, with groomed runs that are ideal for progression, confidence building, and relaxed cruising. Beginners have a dedicated learners’ area, while advanced skiers can push into steeper off piste terrain accessed via the Ridge T bar.

When conditions are right, Mt Cockayne delivers challenging lines, natural features, and excellent views across the Craigieburn Range. It’s a mountain that rewards exploration without demanding expert skills from everyone.

A true family friendly club field

Cheeseman shines when it comes to families. Kids aged ten and under ski free, the learners’ slope sits directly in front of the Day Lodge deck, and the atmosphere is calm and welcoming.

Parents can grab a coffee or a glass of wine, watch lessons unfold below, and still get quality skiing in. Sunday coaching sessions help kids progress while making new friends, which is very much part of the Cheeseman culture.

Lodges that make you want to stay

Accommodation is one of Cheeseman’s strongest features.

Snowline Lodge offers ski in ski out, fully catered accommodation right on the field. It’s popular for ski weeks, families, and anyone who likes the idea of skiing all day and having dinner ready without lifting a finger.

Forest Lodge sits lower down, tucked into the beech forest, offering a more budget friendly, backpacker style option. Together, the lodges give Cheeseman flexibility that many club fields don’t have.

Food, coffee, and a sunny deck

The Day Lodge is warm, spacious, and social. The licensed café serves proper espresso coffee, hot food, and drinks, with a sun drenched deck that catches the light most of the day.

It’s the kind of place where you end up staying longer than planned, swapping run tips and watching the weather roll through.

Backcountry access for experienced riders

For those with the skills and equipment, Cheeseman provides access to serious backcountry terrain, including Tarn Basin. This area sits beyond the ski field boundary and is unpatrolled, uncontrolled, and avalanche prone.

Cheeseman is clear about the risks. If you head out there, you’re responsible for yourself and your group. That honesty is part of the mountain’s culture.

A long history and a strong community

Founded in 1929, Mount Cheeseman has generations of skiers woven into its story. Many members grew up here, and that sense of continuity shows in how the field is run.

It’s a place where regulars greet newcomers, and people are genuinely happy to show you their favourite run of the day.

Final thoughts

Mount Cheeseman Ski Area is one of the most balanced club fields in New Zealand. It’s easy to access, welcoming to families, and still offers enough terrain and adventure to keep experienced skiers engaged.

If you want uncrowded slopes, friendly faces, solid facilities, and a proper mountain atmosphere without the hassle, Cheeseman is a very easy place to love.