Awakino
Awakino: 430m vertical, 3 rope tows, 60% advanced terrain. NZ$60 day pass. Volunteer-run club field in Canterbury's St Marys Range.
Season 2026
Opens
4 July 2026
Closes
27 Sept 2026
Days open
85
Annual snow
3m
The Overview
Michael Fulton
Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.
Awakino operates between 1,450 and 1,880 metres elevation across 100 hectares of skiable terrain in the St Marys Range. The field offers 22 runs with 430 metres of vertical drop, distributed as 10% beginner, 30% intermediate and 60% advanced terrain across 5 kilometres of slopes. Run by the Waitaki Ski Club since the late 1940s, the field receives approximately 2.5 metres of annual snowfall, with easterly exposure sheltering it from prevailing westerly systems whilst capturing southerly dumps. Adult day passes cost NZ$60, amongst the lowest in New Zealand.
Glacier Basin forms the advanced skiing heart of the field, featuring steep gullies and rock towers accessed from the ridge tows. Named runs include Arthur's Run and the old access tow gully, which provide ski access to the lodge below the main field. Intermediate terrain spreads across varied aspects, whilst learner slopes occupy the gentler base area serviced by a dedicated 70-metre rope tow. The north-facing valley orientation provides multiple aspects within a compact area, allowing riders to find variable snow conditions across a single session.
This volunteer-operated club field typically sees fewer than 20 skiers on a busy day, operating weekends and select long weekends from July through October. The historic 40-bunk lodge sits at 1,100 metres on the access road, 300 metres below base facilities, featuring coal burners, generated electricity, hot showers and an outdoor spa. No mobile coverage reaches the lodge. The 1980s Kassbohrer groomer fires up occasionally, but most terrain remains ungroomed. A WWII Nissan hangar serves as the base building, with a functioning red telephone box nearby.
Awakino operates independently without pass affiliations, requiring direct booking through the Waitaki Ski Club. Extensive ski touring extends onto the surrounding St Marys Range, with Te Kohurau peak at 2,010 metres accessible via skins or snowmobile for NZ$10 vehicle access. The field suits intermediate to advanced riders seeking uncrowded powder, backcountry access and authentic club skiing, though weekend-only operations and volunteer staffing demand flexible planning. Members contribute work hours in exchange for skiing access, maintaining the field's no-budget, self-reliant ethos established over seven decades.
430m
Vertical
22
Runs
124 acres
Skiable
3m
Annual snow
The Terrain
22 runs across 124 acres skiable
Awakino spreads 22 runs across 124 acres skiable of terrain. It leans advanced at 60%, with 2 beginner runs to find your feet and 13 advanced or expert runs when you want to push.
Terrain split
22
runs
22 runs across 4 grades
Beginner2 runs · 10%
Intermediate7 runs · 30%
Advanced13 runs · 60%
Expert0 runs · 0%
Time it right
When to visit Awakino
The 2026 season operates from 4 July through 27 September, with the field typically open most weekends when snow conditions and volunteer availability align. Total season length spans approximately 12 weeks, though midweek and long weekend openings occur when conditions permit and advance bookings justify operations. The volunteer-run model means operational dates respond to group bookings rather than fixed daily schedules, requiring advance coordination through the club. Historical records show most weekend operations running July through October in typical seasons.
The St Marys Range receives most snowfall from southerly and south-easterly systems moving up the coast, with the field's easterly exposure capturing these storms whilst remaining sheltered during westerly flow. Annual snowfall averages 2.5 metres at the 1,600-metre mid-mountain elevation. Awakino remains known for deep wind-blown powder that accumulates in gullies and basins, often staying untracked for days due to minimal visitor numbers. The field prioritises natural snow over grooming, with the vintage Kassbohrer fired up only occasionally for key runs.
July and August deliver peak snowfall and most consistent base depths, with mid-winter southerly dumps producing the chalky powder conditions the field's devotees seek. Early season skiing from late June depends on elevation and aspect, whilst September brings spring corn as temperatures rise. Week four of May historically records the snowiest period with typically 2.4 snowy days and 16 centimetres of accumulation. The relatively isolated eastern position means weather forecasts and avalanche information remain limited compared to commercial fields, requiring backcountry awareness from all visitors.
No night skiing, terrain parks or formal events programme operates at Awakino. Occasional ski lessons run by arrangement at NZ$60 per hour for up to two people, subject to instructor availability. The draw remains weekend lodge stays combining skiing with the communal experience of coal-fired meals, spa sessions overlooking the Waitaki Valley, and morning skin tracks into fresh powder. Advance booking proves essential, as operations depend on sufficient numbers to justify volunteer staffing and field opening.
Season 2026
4 July 2026
Opens
27 Sept 2026
Closes
85
Days open
3 m
Annual snow
Getting there
Getting to Awakino, and where to stay
The field sits high in the St Marys Range within the Waitaki District of Canterbury, South Island, though geographically positioned in North Otago near the Canterbury-Otago boundary. The base lodge occupies 1,100 metres elevation with the skiing area extending to 1,880 metres across an easterly-facing bowl. The St Marys Range forms part of the broader Oteake Conservation Park, with tussock-covered slopes giving way to rocky alpine tops. Views extend across the Waitaki Valley and Hakataramea Valley, with Aoraki Mount Cook visible on clear days.
Kurow township, 16 kilometres east in the Waitaki Valley, provides the nearest services and road access departure point. Oamaru sits 45 kilometres east via State Highway 83, offering more comprehensive services including supermarkets and accommodation. The Waitaki Ski Club, founded in 1938, originally operated near Dansey's Pass before relocating to Awakino after World War II when New Zealand Post facilities became available. The region's farming heritage persists, with the access road traversing active high-country stations where gates must be left as found.
Access follows State Highway 82 or 83 to Kurow, then Manse Road to Cattle Valley Road, turning left onto Awakino Skifield Road. The 4WD-only route climbs through farmland, crossing the Awakino River at a ford before hairpin switchbacks ascend to the lower carpark suitable for 2WD vehicles. The final 2 kilometres to the lodge demands 4WD, often requiring chains in winter conditions. The steep section known as the Awakino Test challenges vehicle capability, with club members available to shuttle visitors from the lower carpark by arrangement. Total drive time from the lower carpark to lodge spans 30 minutes walking or 10 minutes by 4WD.
Christchurch Airport lies 272 kilometres north, requiring 3.5 hours driving via State Highway 1 and State Highway 82 through Timaru and Oamaru. Queenstown Airport sits 216 kilometres southwest with 2.5 hours driving via State Highway 8 through Omarama and the Lindis Pass. Dunedin Airport provides a third option 142 kilometres south. Richard Pearse Airport at Timaru operates 98 kilometres north with limited domestic services. No regular public transport serves Kurow or the Waitaki Valley, making private vehicle essential for field access.
Where to stay
Search all stays →Hotels and lodges near Awakino, powered by Stay22.
Latest News
From the SnowStash desk
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26 Aug 2026
Awakino Lift Tickets
Awakino lift tickets & passes
Awakino is currently open for the 2026 season through Sept 27, 2026. Lift tickets are available for daily and multi-day visits.
Day passes start from NZ$10, with peak rates up to NZ$60.
7 pass options
Single-day passes
Adult 18–64
Adult Full Day Lift Pass
NZ$60
Full day access to Awakino ski area, a boutique South Island club field offering authentic Kiwi skiing with nutcracker tow systems. Experience uncrowded slopes and alpine scenery with cash-only operations maintaining traditional club field atmosphere. All prices include 10% DOC levy.
Buy passYouth 13–25
Student Full Day Lift Pass
NZ$50
Student daily pass for Awakino ski area from Year 9 to completion of tertiary study. Student ID may be requested. Experience traditional club field skiing with nutcracker tows and authentic mountain culture. Includes 10% DOC levy.
Buy passChild 6–12
Child Full Day Lift Pass
NZ$35
Child daily pass for Awakino ski area up to Year 8 (end of intermediate school). Young skiers experience boutique club field skiing with nutcracker tow systems and on-mountain accommodation options. All prices include 10% DOC levy.
Buy passAdult 18–64
Ski Touring & Snowmobile Access
NZ$10
Vehicle access to Awakino ski area for ski touring and snowmobile activities. Free access if staying overnight in the lodge accommodation. Perfect for backcountry enthusiasts exploring the South Island alpine terrain.
Buy passHalf-day passes
Adult 18–64
Adult Half Day Lift Pass
NZ$40
Half day afternoon access to Awakino ski area from 1pm onwards. Perfect for late starts or shorter ski days at this traditional South Island club field. Cash only operations with free nutcracker tow belt hire included.
Buy passYouth 13–25
Student Half Day Lift Pass
NZ$35
Student half day pass from 1pm onwards at Awakino ski area. Student ID may be required. Experience afternoon skiing at this authentic club field with traditional nutcracker tow systems.
Buy passChild 6–12
Child Half Day Lift Pass
NZ$20
Child half day pass from 1pm onwards at Awakino ski area for students up to Year 8. Afternoon skiing at this boutique South Island club field with on-mountain accommodation available.
Buy passLift tickets FAQ
How much does a Awakino day pass cost?
Awakino day passes range from NZ$10 to NZ$60 depending on the date and advance booking.
Can I buy Awakino lift tickets online?
Yes, you can purchase tickets directly from the resort website or at the resort ticket office.
Are there discounts for multi-day passes?
Yes, multi-day packages typically offer significant savings compared to individual day passes. The per-day cost decreases with longer stays.
What is included with a Awakino lift ticket?
Full access to all lifts and trails at Awakino, including mountain safety and patrol services.
What is the difference between Awakino lift tickets and ski passes?
"Lift tickets" and "ski passes" refer to the same thing at Awakino - your access to the mountain's lifts and trails for your chosen duration.
When should I buy Awakino lift tickets for the best price?
Purchase tickets at least 7 days in advance for the best rates, and consider weekday visits for further savings over weekend rates.
Does Awakino offer group discounts on lift tickets?
Group discounts are typically available for parties of 10 or more. Contact Awakino directly for group booking information and rates.
How can I check current conditions before buying tickets?
Before purchasing, check the live snow report and mountain webcams to see current weather, snow conditions, and lift operations at Awakino.
More Awakino intelligence: snow report, webcams, resort overview.