Getting Here
Getting Here
NZSSI Courses are held at Temple Basin Ski Area. Temple Basin is located in the heart of the Southern Alps near Arthur’s Pass Village. It’s unique in that there is no access road to the top. Instead you leave your car at the bottom and make your way up on foot. Access to the ski area is via State Highway 73 which is sealed right up to the carpark. The drive from Christchurch to the Temple Basin car park takes approximately 1.5-2 hours. A 40-50 minute walk from the car park is needed to reach the ski area lodges, not a bad thing as the views are worth savouring.
Directions
Approximately 800 meters West of the car park you’ll find the Goods Lift which will send you gear skyward and lighten your load. It’s a good tip to hang onto your ski poles as they make the hike a little easier, if there’s snow to low levels it’s best to phone the mountain for an update as crampons may be an advantage. Generally hiking boots or running shoes with an aggressive sole are suitable footwear for the track.
To check road conditions call 0800 444 449 or visit www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic
View Temple Basin in a larger map
The Goods Lift
The Goods Lift Terminal located approximately 800m west of the car park (west of the Dobson Memorial). Saviour to many, the Goods Lift will transport your gear up the mountain. The goods lift operator will meet you at the goods lift shed beside the main road. There is no charge for this service.
Goods lift hours of operation:
Monday – Thursday 9.00 – 11.30am
Friday 9.00 – 11.30 & 4.00 – 6.00pm
Saturday – Sunday 9.00 – 12.00 & 4.00 – 6.00pm
Other times by arrangement – Phone the Booking Office +64 3 377 7788 or email info@templebasin.co.nz
Getting Here – The Video
Former mountain manager, Todd Windle takes you through the trip from Arthur’s Pass to the on field Lodges.
Plan Your Trip
While daily bus and train services run through Arthurs Pass between Christchurch and Greymouth, these may not suit your needs. If you arrive at Christchurch International Airport we recommend that you get in touch as there is a high potential of car pooling with other course participants or Temple Basin club members heading up the hill. Alternatively, rental cars are available in Christchurch Airport.
We recommend the following public services:
1. Taxi or public busses are available from Christchurch airport to the central city.
2. Accommodation in Christchurch:
Around the World Backpackers Ph: +64 3 365 4363
Kiwi Base Camp Ph: +64 3 366 6770
Jailhouse Accommodation Ph: +64 3 982 7777
3. Transport to Temple Basin
Car Pool options – Get in touch with us!
Bus Companies
Atomic Shuttle – note, this is now a charter only service
Train Companies
KiwiRail – TranzAlpine
If travelling by train you need to book the Arthur’s Pass Shuttle to transport you from Arthur’s Pass to Temple Basin.