Opening day for the winter 2026 season is scheduled for Aug 2, 2026 (subject to change). Lift Tickets at Rainbow Ski Area will typically go on sale well before the start of the ski season.
Starting from NZ$40 • Peak rates NZ$325
Check current snow conditions before your visit
Save up to 20% on advance bookings
View snow forecast for the best powder days
Significant per-day savings for longer stays
15-25% cheaper than weekend rates
Full mountain access at Rainbow Ski Area, Nelson's community-powered ski field. Experience diverse terrain with T-bar and platter lifts, terrain park features, and stunning Southern Alps views near St Arnaud.
Full day skiing and snowboarding at Rainbow Ski Area for youth aged 7-17. Access Nelson's friendly ski field with extensive terrain park and groomed runs in the spectacular Nelson Lakes region.
Discounted full day access to Rainbow Ski Area for students with valid ID and seniors 65-74. Enjoy Nelson's community ski field with member benefits and friendly atmosphere.
Children 6 and under ski with KOHA appreciation at Rainbow Ski Area. Nelson's community-powered approach welcomes families with excellent beginner terrain and friendly volunteers.
Perfect for beginners at Rainbow Ski Area with access to learner lifts only. Start your skiing journey at Nelson's friendly community field with excellent instruction available.
Beginner-friendly pass for youth 7-17 at Rainbow Ski Area. Learn on dedicated learner lifts with supportive community atmosphere in the beautiful Nelson Lakes region.
Discounted learner pass for students and seniors 65-74 at Rainbow Ski Area. Perfect introduction to skiing with access to beginner terrain and professional instruction.
Afternoon skiing at Rainbow Ski Area from 12:15pm. Enjoy Nelson's spectacular mountain views and community atmosphere with full mountain access for half-day adventures.
Afternoon pass for youth 7-17 at Rainbow Ski Area. Perfect for sleep-ins with access to terrain park and all lifts from 12:15pm in Nelson's friendly ski community.
Adult day passes range from NZ$130 depending on the date and advance booking.
Yes, you can purchase tickets directly from the resort website or at the resort ticket office.
Yes, multi-day packages typically offer significant savings compared to individual day passes. The per-day cost decreases with longer stays.
Full access to all lifts and trails at Rainbow Ski Area. Check current conditions and live webcams before your visit.
"Lift tickets" and "ski passes" refer to the same thing at Rainbow Ski Area - your access to the mountains lifts and trails. Whether you call it a Rainbow Ski Area lift ticket or Rainbow Ski Area ski pass, you are getting full mountain access for your chosen duration.
Purchase tickets at least 7 days in advance for the best rates. Check our snow forecast for optimal skiing conditions, and consider weekday visits for 15-25% savings over weekend rates.
Group discounts are typically available for parties of 10 or more. Contact Rainbow Ski Area directly for group booking information and rates.
Before purchasing, check our live snow report and mountain webcams to see current weather, snow conditions, and lift operations at Rainbow Ski Area.
Operating from late June to early October, Rainbow Ski Area benefits from consistent winter conditions at 1,768 meters above sea level. The mountain's southeastern aspect helps preserve snow quality, particularly on the upper slopes. While nature provides most of the white stuff, snowmaking equipment supplements coverage on main trails, helping maintain reliable skiing throughout the winter season.
Current Season
2026
Opening Day
8/2/2026
Closing Day
9/20/2026
Days Open
50
Metric
2m
200cm
Imperial
6.6ft
79in
