Getting Here
Broken River is only 90 minutes and 100 kms west of Christchurch. We're located in Craigieburn Forest Park, which is in the Craigieburn Range, in the heart of the South Island's Southern Alps.
The drive is straight forward. From Christchurch drive west on State Highway 73 through Darfield, over Porters Pass and past Castle Hill village. Broken River's access road is well-signed posted as the third left turn 7.5 km beyond Castle Hill village. Please arrive at the car park between 8:30-11:30am and 3:30-5:30pm to catch the Tyndall Tram as it is closed outside these hours.
Broken River Ski Area is well-sign posted on State Highway 73.
View of Broken River (centre) from Highway 73. Photo Andrew Chinn.
Our 6 km unsealed access road gently climbs through pristine native mountain beech forest to the main car park (Hanomag car park). The road is sheltered and two-wheel drive cars can easily reach the car park. Please check our daily snow report for road conditions and make sure you carry chains as you may need to use these. Our road is not suitable for campervans. Please park these down near State Highway 73.
Your unique experience starts with a ride on the Tyndall Tramway, our alpine rail from the car park to the Ticket Office and accommodation lodges. The Tramway takes you, your friends and gear on a stunning 4-minute ride up through beech forest with great views of the surrounding valley. If you're after a good warm up, put your gear on the Tram and take the foot track for an enjoyable 20-30 minute walk through beech forest to the Ticket Office.
Once you've purchased your lift pass at the Ticket Office carry your gear 10 minutes to the first ski tow - and stage two of your off-piste adventure begins!
Watch Sam take a ride up the Tramway and learn how to use a rope tow in our Broken River Arrival Video.
Broken River is easily accessible by car. Make sure you carry chains for your vehicle - even if you have a four wheel drive. Getting stuck in the snow down on the road while the powder is being tracked out is just unthinkable!
Park your car at Hanomag car park and step on the Tyndall Tramway. Photo Claire Newell.
Do you need help getting to Broken River?
Car pooling:
Save fuel - share petrol costs or catch a lift www.snowpool.org.nz
Rent your own vehicle:
Catch a ride with a commercial operator:
|
Alpine Expeditions |
P: (03) 338-8987 |
|
Black Diamond Safaris |
P: (03) 302-9696 M: (027) 4508-283 |