Central residents will benefit from the new base building at Snow Farm, which was opened by former prime minister Helen Clark on Sunday, August 25.

Helen Clark and Southland MP Joseph Mooney assembled alongside community representatives for the public opening of the ski area’s base building. 

Snow Farm is the only public, not-for-profit, charitable ski facility in the region and the $750,000 building, funded solely through donations, marks a significant community achievement.

Representatives from Otago Community Trust, Central Lakes Trust, Breen Construction and Queenstown Lakes District Council attended a ceremony hosted at the new base building, which began with a mihi whakatau and karakia from Kai Tahu kaumatua Darren Rewi, and speeches from Helen Clark, Snow Farm representatives Sam Lee and Samuel Belk.

Southland MP Joseph Mooney spoke at the official opening. PHOTO: Supplied

Snow Farm general manager Sam Lee said the support for the new hub has been overwhelming.

“We have been amazed at the incredible generosity from our community – locally and beyond. 

“For the past two years, we have worked diligently to turn this base building concept into a reality and the new base area truly reflects the overall dedication, investment and mammoth efforts that has gone into making this project possible.”

The new hub contains basic amenities, rentals, ticketing guest services, cafe and staffroom and is located between the designated snowplay and tubing area and the starting point for cross-country trails. 

Construction of the building began in December 2023, with the work completed within five months, by local company Breen Construction.

“By having this new hub completed, it serves as a great foundational base to build upon and allows us to continue developing our affordable and world-class experiences,” Sam said. 

“For the next stage of development, we’re looking forward to collaborating with council and provide additional amenities such as year-round publicly accessible toilets, that can be used by hikers and mountain bikers during the summer months when Snow Farm is closed.

“We also aim to build upon the existing base infrastructure and add another communal area which can serve as an educational space for school groups. With this section of the base area complete, we will now set our sights on fundraising the $800,000 required to start this expansion work.”

New Zealand’s only cross-country ski area hosts more than 15,000 users annually, including community groups, more than 36 school groups, many from Central Lakes schools and the growing Olympic sport of Biathlon.