Rainbow Ski Area

Rainbow is an alpine ski field in Six Mile Basin, beside Nelson Lakes National Park. Its base is at 1,540 m; the lifts reach 1,760 m and the skiable terrain tops out at 1,820 m. With 218 m of lift-served vertical, this is a compact field with a local club feel, not a place for long high-speed descents. Go for a community-run snow day, the alpine setting and a mix of skiing and snow play. The usual season is roughly July to September, but snow, weather, safety and staffing decide whether it operates.

From SH63, Rainbow Valley Road runs 12 km on sealed road, crossing five fords to the lower car park. Beyond it, the mountain road follows Six Mile Creek through native beech forest and above the tree line. Every vehicle past the lower car park must carry or fit chains; a 4WD shuttle is available for people without them. Road conditions can change quickly, so check the current road and shuttle arrangements before setting out. Dogs aren't allowed, even in cars.

There is a learner tow, a main T-bar, an intermediate platter, a terrain-park tow and a West Bowl access tow. The operator describes the terrain as about one-quarter beginner, just over half intermediate and the rest advanced; visitor opinions differ on how much the intermediate runs offer, so check the current run map if that is your main reason to come. Non-skiers are welcome for snow and scenery, but confirm current access-pass requirements before driving up. On a clear day the high field looks across lakes, native forest, alpine valleys and snow-dusted peaks.

When the field is operating, the licensed cafe serves food, hot and cold drinks, and barista coffee. The operator also lists equipment and clothing rentals, ski repair and a retail shop. Toilets are at the base. A potable water supply wasn't confirmed, so don't count on filling a bottle there.

Skiing in the Nelson area is traced to 1929, when Eric Chittenden rowed across Lake Rotoiti and climbed Mount Robert to ski. The Nelson Ski Club formed in 1944. Rainbow's mountain road came later: local people built it in 1981 with donated labor and money, finishing the climb to the field in about a year.