Craigieburn Range

The Craigieburn Range is a compact mountain chain in the Canterbury region of New Zealand’s South Island, forming part of the Southern Alps foothills and noted for steep, rocky peaks and rugged ridgelines. The range is regionally significant for alpine recreation, especially winter skiing and summer mountaineering.

Alpine activities are the main draw - several small ski fields operate within the range and the area is also used for ski touring, rock and ice climbing, and tramping in summer. Routes typically lead onto narrow ridges and steep faces rather than broad plateaus.

The mountains were formed by tectonic uplift associated with the Southern Alps orogeny and subsequent glacial sculpting. Human use has been dominated by seasonal alpine recreation since the 20th century, with club-operated ski fields established in the mid to late 20th century.

Geographically the range sits in inland Canterbury, part of the central South Island high country. It lies west of the Canterbury plains and is accessed from towns and roadheads in the region; travel typically requires mountain roads and sometimes unsealed access tracks.

• Skiing focus: Contains several club-operated ski fields that emphasise ungroomed, steep terrain and backcountry access rather than large resort infrastructure.
• Conditions and access: Alpine weather can change quickly; routes into the range often require mountain equipment and local knowledge outside groomed areas.

What to See #

• Craigieburn Valley Ski Area: A club and commercial ski field set within steep alpine terrain, offering lift-served skiing and access to backcountry routes during the snow season.
• Broken River Ski Area: A nearby small ski area known for ungroomed terrain and access to off-piste descents, popular with ski touring groups.
• Mount Cheeseman Ski Area: A smaller ski field and mountain recreation area offering lifts and walking access to surrounding ridgelines.