The Woodsman's Den

If you’re a Te Araroa walker, and wish to stay with us, we are happy to store your food parcels for free and collect you from the Red Hills carpark! Simply let us know when you make a booking with us 😊

Somewhere over the rainbow!

🎿 WELCOME TO RAINBOW SKI AREA – WINTER 2026 🌈

Before you head up the mountain, here are a few things you need to remember:

✔️ Check the snow report each morning to check mountain status, road conditions and chain requirements: https://skirainbow.co.nz/snow-report/

✔️ Chains MUST be carried at all times, and you need to test-fit them before you leave home. If chains are required, please pull into the designated chain bay and fit them carefully. Read more about getting to the mountain, and chains, here: https://skirainbow.co.nz/getting-here/

✔️ The lifts start at 9am and close at 4pm.

✔️ Ski and Snowboard lessons must be booked online prior to the weekend. Booking cut-offs: Saturday lessons close Thursday midnight, Sunday lessons close Friday midnight: https://rainbow-ski-school.vercel.app/

✔️Need a shuttle? The shuttle service is independently operated by 4WD Bus. Book your shuttle directly with them: https://www.4wdbusnz.com/ski-field-shuttles

See you at Rainbow! ❄️⛷️🏂

🎿🏂 Skiing and snowboarding are planned to return to Rainbow this weekend!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our opening weekend. It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the snow play area and making the most of the mountain.

This weekend we're excited to add skiing and snowboarding into the mix, with our planned opening on Saturday and Sunday.

As we transition into ski operations, snow play will continue in our designated snow play areas ONLY, while our groomed trails are reserved for skiing and snowboarding. Please follow all signage so everyone can enjoy the mountain safely.

As with any early-season opening, expect marginal snow cover, particularly at lower elevations. If you've got an older pair of skis, this is the perfect time to dust them off while we continue to build our snow base. The West Bowl will remain closed for now while we wait for more snow.

If you're heading up this weekend:

⛓️ Carry chains and test fit them at home before you leave.
📱 Be sure to check our page on the morning of your visit for the latest road conditions and confirmation that we're open.

We can't wait to welcome everyone back for another great weekend on the mountain! 🌈❄️

❄️ Snow Play at Rainbow This Sunday, August 2nd☃️

Looking for a fun day in the snow? Come up to Rainbow and enjoy a classic winter's day with the family. Build a snowman, make snow angels, enjoy some tobogganing, throw a few snowballs, or simply take in the stunning alpine scenery.

Snow Play Entry
👶 3 years & under – FREE
🧒 Children (4–17 years) – $10
🧑 Adults – $20
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family – $50

Every visit helps support Rainbow. Your entry fee helps cover the significant time, effort and costs our crew and dedicated volunteers have put into preparing the mountain, while helping ensure Rainbow can continue operating for seasons to come.

Whether it's your first time seeing snow or you're just looking for a winter adventure, Rainbow is a great place to spend the day.

Visitor Information

🛷 Toboggan hire – $25 (limited numbers available). If you've finished with yours, please return it so another family can enjoy the snow too.
☕ A limited café will be available, serving filter coffee, tea, and a small selection of packaged snacks.
🥪 Please bring your own lunch or picnic, as we won't be serving meals.
🚗 Road access is open – all vehicles must carry snow chains.
🚌 Shuttles will be available – more information to come.

Please dress warmly, wear sturdy footwear, and check our page for the latest road and weather updates before you travel.

📸 We'd love to see your photos—share them in the comments!

Hey everyone - Just over 3 months to go till the 26th NZ Antique & Classic Boatshow - some exciting things happening which we will tell you about over the next few months.

Checkout the website for entry forms etc which will be online in December

Looking forward to catching up March 7&8 2026!

https://www.nzclassicboats.com