TWO MAIN BOWLS

Broken River has something for everyone - great snow, varied terrain and plenty of scope for awesome fun. Powder is the name of the game in winter and smooth corn snow throughout the long spring season.

The ski area is made up of two main open bowls with wide, rolling slopes, that suit intermediate and advanced riders. Wind lips throughout the bowls provide a fun, natural terrain park. The adventurous beginner will also have a great time too. Be sure to pause on the main ridge as the spectacular 360o views are hard to beat. You might even see one BR’s members fly past in his glider! The surrounding peaks have many steep chutes and challenging slopes for the adventurous at heart. A short hike to these peaks opens up more terrain and provides even greater rewards.

Skiing New Zealand South Island

Broken River Basin

The main Broken River Basin has Palmer Day Lodge and five electric rope tows.  Two learner tows are handily positioned on the mellow groomed slopes near Palmer Lodge, enabling parents to keep a watchful eye on their young riders. The lower slopes and learner areas of this bowl are groomed. Tow clips or “nutcrackers” are required to use the three high-speed rope tows. 

If you haven't used a rope tow before BR’s friendly staff will help get you started and you’ll soon get the hang of it, especially as the tow can be slowed down with the press of a button.

powder skiing New Zealand

Allan's Basin

The jewel in our crown. Allan's Basin, adjacent to Broken River Basin, provides an unrivalled backcountry experience. It's a patrolled bowl that is 100% off-piste and natural - no tows, just a handful of people enjoying the solitude and long powder runs.

Allan’s Basin is accessed by the ridge tow and once you’ve enjoyed the thrills of this bowl there is an easy route back to the main basin. Be warned, one run is never enough!

backcountry ski touring New Zealand

Touring & Backcountry

There are plenty of hiking and ski-touring opportunities from Broken River outside the patrolled area. Many day trips and overnight adventures are detailed in New Zealand Backcountry Skiing.

Please consult BR staff before departing and register your intentions at the ticket office or at Palmer Lodge. There is no ski patrol or avalanche control outside the marked ski area boundary. You are responsible for your own safety. Don't travel alone. Please ensure your party has the right gear (e.g. avalanche transceiver, shovel & probe) & the skills to use it. Check the NZ Avalanche Advisory Forecast for current backcountry conditions. We strongly recommend that you understand avalanche safety basics before heading out. To upskill, join one of our Avalanche Courses this winter.