Temple Basin

Temple Basin is a ski area like no other. Renowned in New Zealand as the home of extreme skiing and snowboarding, here you’ll find solitude with all the comforts of home. There’s a hike from the highway to the ski area base with comfortable lodging and stunning views in every direction.

About Temple Basin

Located on the Main Divide of the Southern Alps, Temple Basin provides total detachment from ‘life in the fast lane’ but with all the comforts of home. If you’re thinking of taking a backcountry or avalanche course there is no better place to immerse yourself in a learning environment. Temple Lodge has a fully equipped lecture room.

Temple Basin is a rewarding and exhilarating place to stay, ski and ride. Like any good reward with skiing there is usually a hike involved. A ‘gondola’ (goodslift) can be found at the base, on the main highway, but it only carries your gear. There’s no access road so the 40-60 minute hike up will get the blood pumping and legs ready for skiing and riding.

Three rope tows service the ski area. Cassidy Tow is a great option for beginners and those of intermediate ability. Temple Tow is right in front of the main accommodation lodge and has night skiing. A short traverse from the top of the Temple Tow leads you to Downhill Tow, which is nestled under Mt Temple and accesses a large sunny basin. The entire ski area is ungroomed so natural features and impressive rock formations make the skiing both challenging and rewarding.

Trail Map

Terrain and Weather Tip

Temple Basin can be particularly sunny so pack your sunglasses and sunblock along with your drink bottle and a day pack.

Accommodation

Temple Basin Lodge has a variety of modern bunk-rooms sleeping from 4 to 10 people. Guests need only bring a towel and sleeping bag, with sheets and pillows provided. Hot showers and a drying room (the most powerful in the country) ensure you end each day warm and dry. There's a licensed bar and fully stocked canteen with snacks, craft beers and locally produced wines.

Rates for non-members (fully catered):

1 Night Adult/Student/Under 18/Under 11: $149/$134/$124/$60
2 Nights Adult/Student/Under 18/Under 11: $253/$228/$210/$120

The per-night rate for Adults, Students and Under 18's is lower the longer you stay.

Mid-week self-catered accommodation is available upon request. The non-member rate is $70 per night.

Chill Tip

Head up on a Friday evening to get the most out of your weekend. Keep an eye out for night-skiing when conditions allow.

Check List

For the Ravenous: stay the night. The meal and dessert are worth it!
For First Timers: don't pack your ski poles on the goods lift, they're handy for the walk up. Also, when heading back down, keep your car keys in your pocket, not in the gear you send down on the lift!
For Everyone: take a strong head torch. Powerful lights illuminate Temple Tow when conditions are right for night skiing.

Snow Forecast

View detailed snow forecast for Temple Basin at:
snow-forecast.com

Temple Basin Stats

Beginner 15%
Intermediate 50%
Advanced 35%

Main Lifts 3x Rope Tows

Top Elevation 1923m
Bottom Elevation 1493m
Skiable Terrain 380 hectares

Ski/Board Hire Yes
Lessons Yes

Night Skiing Conditions Permitting

Access 45-60 minute hike

Day Pass Rates
Adult: $85
Students: $85
Under 18: $85
Under 11: FREE