FAQ

The Mt Dobson ski season runs from the July school holidays until the middle/late of September, depending on the snow.

The road is normally open at 8am with the first lift opening at 9am . Ophua Saddle Chairlift opens at 10 am

We have 400+ acres of skiable terrain and more than 14 trails to explore. 25% green (beginners), 50% blue (intermediates) and 25% black (advanced). We have the Ophua Saddle Triple Chairlift, the Fairlie Ridge T-Bar, the Bunny Platter, and the beginner slope tow.

Mt Dobson is on State Highway 8, the main route between Christchurch and Queenstown. The alpine road starts 11km west of Fairlie and 18km east from Lake Tekapo. Mt Dobson is a 40min drive on a smooth gravel mountain road; one of the best alpine roads in the country. It is wide enough for two vehicles to easily pass, with plenty of places to stop. Cars, camper vans and buses are suitable for the road. Please carry snow chains at all times and fit them where indicated by advisory signs.

Mt Dobson does not run a shuttle service,  Snow Riders NZ is a ride share option.

Relax in our Foote Rest Café where you can get Underground Coffee, Fairlie Bakehouse pies plus a range of snacks, confectionary and cold drinks.

You sure can. We have 300+ sets of skis on the mountain, including carving skis. We also have 50 snowboards and protective equipment such as wrist guards. There is a limited range of clothing for hire plus ski and snowboard boots, poles, helmets, goggles, and gloves. The Ticketing Team can assist you when you arrive and get you kitted out. When you’re finished with the equipment – just bring it back to our Rentals Team.

Mt Dobson is all about great snow, varied terrain and views for miles and miles. So there’s not much to do up here other than ski or snowboard. If you’ve not tried snow sports before, we have a fantastic snow school. All of our instructors are super friendly, and they offer private or group lessons. To find out more, check out our Learn page.

Alternatively, we have The Foote Rest Café, which does great coffee and has Fairlie bakehouse pies. So if your group is only looking to hit the slopes for half a day, bring a good book and an empty stomach and you can always set up shop in there while you wait for the others.

The beauty of skiing at Mt Dobson is that you’re never too far from your car. So whatever you don’t need while you’re skiing, just keep it in your vehicle.

We recommend you arrive early on the day to reserve your spot. The same goes for rental gear. Our group lessons start at 11am and 1:30pm each day, and private lessons can start whenever you like. So give yourself an hour before your lesson to buy your lift pass and get fitted with any gear/equipment.

We have EFTPOS but no cash machine.

YES, but Mount Dobson Ski Area is located in the TeKahui Kaupeka Conservation Park so discourages bringing your dog. If you cannot leave your dog at home, you must have your dog on a lead at all times, your pet must not wander from your car causing a nuisance to other guests.

These Guest services are located in the main car park, straight ahead of you as you first arrive in the car parking zone, adjacent to the Fairlie Ridge T-bar. You will pass the toilets on the way.