New Zealand is a skier's dream with so many and varied ski fields from which to choose. No matter what your budget you will find a ski field and accommodation to meet your needs.

Tasman Glacier, Mt Cook is New Zealand's longest glacier running down the side of the mountain for 29 kilometers. Skiing the glacier is not really for beginners, but intermediate and advanced skiers will really enjoy the adventure.

A plane will take you into the Southern Alps for the run down the glacier. You will see amazing ice caves and beautiful ice canyons. There are several packages for skiing the glacier. You can choose the package that suits your needs, it will still be one of the finest skiing experiences you will ever have.

Mt Dobson is friendly with a relaxed atmosphere. Located just about two and a half hours from Christchurch and three hours from Queenstown on the South Island of New Zealand. This ski field caters mostly to intermediate skiers and snowboarders, but it does have roomy learner's facilities. There are fourteen trails with a very good mix of terrain.

Mt Lyford is a family-run ski field near Christchurch, New Zealand, at the southern end of the Kaikoura Mountains. Activities include skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, tubing and racing. This is a great family field with runs for all levels, from beginning to advanced. The Wild Ride Terrain Park has jumps, kickers and rails, quarter pipe and half pipe. The Mt Lyford Lodge is a day lodge with restaurant and bar conveniences.

The Mt Lyford Holiday Homes are perfect for family getaways. They are near the ski field and offer breathtaking scenery with no interruptions from phones or television. Here a family can just enjoy nature and each other.

Broken River is a New Zealand club ski field that has some of the best off piste skiing and snowboarding around and powder basins and chutes that are not crowded. This is a "back to basics" ski field. It is located about an hour and a half west of Christchurch. The terrain is great for every level of skier and they offer free skiing for children under the age of thirteen.

This ski field consists of two bowls that are protected from the wind, so they can be open on windy days when other fields are closed. There are several steep basins, drop-offs and chutes. A small beginner's area is located near the day lodge.

Broken River is popular with a fun atmosphere. Night skiing is offered with some special weekend events. About 10% of the area is beginner, 40% intermediate and 50% is advanced.

This ski field has a day lodge for meals and relaxation when off the slopes. For sleeping accommodations there are three other lodges, the Lyndon Lodge which is full service, the Broken River Lodge which can accommodate twenty eight for basic needs, and the White Star Chalet for backpackers.

Methven is located only 92 km from Christchurch and is the place to stay when skiing on Mt Hutt. This quaint village is also known for hot air ballooning, fishing, golfing and a busy nightlife. The Mount Hutt Snow Festival is an annual event celebrated at the beginning of winter. It is a fun-filled week for all ages. Methven has six Canterbury ski fields, all close by and for this reason, it is a great base for your holiday ski trip.

Methven has a laid-back atmosphere and generally less expensive accommodations than other areas in New Zealand, whether you are looking for luxury accommodations or holiday parks.

No matter where you go to ski or snowboard in New Zealand, you will be awed by the landscape and the spectacular snow conditions. The ski fields have slopes for beginners, but the choices go all the way to black diamond runs and heli-skiing, just in case you want to have a mountain all to yourself. Every field is distinctive.

When you are not skiing, you can shop, bungy jump, fish, hike or enjoy the friendly clubs and cafes. New Zealand is for the adventurer, but you will also find a colourful history, sophistication, culture and art. Yes, it is true, New Zealand does have it all.