Snowcat Charter Tour Information

The snowcat transports skiers and snowboarders up through our mountain valley in the Sherwood Range. The guide selects the route down the mountain to the rendezvous point with the snowcat for the uphill journey. We aim to provide as many varied runs as possible, given snow conditions and the abilities of the group.  Where conditions permit, riders can pick out terrain they would like to ride. Most groups attempt 8 - 9 rides down the mountain in a day.

You need to be at the Homestead on Clayton Road at 8.00am, before departing for the drive up the Fox Peak Skifield access road.

The Hagglund takes the party for a 30 minute shuttle ride up the mountain. Then you all transfer to the snowcat mountain transport. Your guide will help you plan your descents during the uphill journey.

A hearty lunch of soup, bread rolls, biscuits and coffee is had around midday and the final run starts about 3pm.  You should expect to return to your transport at around 5pm.

Group Size

The snowcat holds up to 10 skiers and snowboarders and their equipment.  We book charter groups up to this size, call us on +64 3 685 4856 or email us to discuss your group's size and requirements.

TERRAIN

The terrain at Alpure Peaks is an exciting combination of everything New Zealand's Southern Alps are famous for.

Steep Mountain Range

The Sherwood Range forms part of the chain of mountains that comprise the South Island's Southern Alps. The terrain is formed of steep open slopes pocketed with rocky chutes and narrow gullies. This isolated range has hardly been altered by human influences. It remains a pristine and remote location today.

Remote and Pristine

For most of the year the main inhabitants of the Sherwood Range, where we are located, are a few hardy sheep, wild mountain tahr and kea, the cheeky and gregarious native alpine parrots.

On a clear day in winter, the silence is broken by roaring snowcat engine and the yells of skiers and snowboarders having the time of their lives.

Steep Mountains and Rolling Valleys

Skiers and riders have a choice routes and terrain, including thrilling gullies and wide slopes.  The routes are dictated by the ability of the group and snow conditions at the time.

Vital Statistics

Total Area               2,600ha  (6,500 acres)

Highest Peak           2,220m  (7,560ft)

Base Area Elevation  1,500m  (5,000ft)

Maximum Vertical       650m  (2,160ft)