Updated: 29 March 2021
Whilst we’re edging closer to the winter ski season here in New Zealand, if you can’t wait to strap on your ski boots and zoom down the slopes, there’s a place you can ski all year round – Snowplanet. Snowplanet is New Zealand’s only indoor ski slope and is located just north of Auckland CBD – a short 30-minute drive.
If you’re looking for a snow experience that captures the thrill of snow sports and the atmosphere of a snowy village no matter what time of year it is, then Snowplanet is a must-experience visit for anyone who loves hitting the slopes or for those that are keen to give it a go!
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Where is Snowplanet?
Snowplanet is located in Silverdale, 30 minutes North of Auckland City off State Highway 1. It’s very visible from the motorway on the drive up as it sits as a huge enclosed facility on a 200-metre slope of a grassy hill. There is also plenty of signage to point you the way. Basically, you can’t miss it.
When did Snowplanet open and what are its opening hours?
Snowplanet opened in 2005 and quickly became one of the top New Zealand tourism experiences for locals and international visitors alike.
Snowplanet’s opening hours are usually 12pm to 9pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 12pm to 5pm on a Wednesday, and 10am to 10pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 365 days a year.
What facilities does Snowplanet have?
Snowplanet’s giant snow dome features 50 centimetres of manufactured powder snow, three lifts, a terrain park for the freestyle skiers & snowboarders and a separate learners slope for beginners.
One of the best features is that the complex is strategically placed to slope uphill, making use of the natural surroundings and geography. The slope is 200m long given you a great amount of slope before you to enjoy.
There is also a Terrain Park with some great jumps and rails for people to try and practise all their skills and tricks.
Afterwards, you might fancy a bit of Apres Ski at the Snowplanet Restaurant and Bar. It has a full food and drinks menu and it also boasts panoramic views onto the snow where you can sit and enjoy all the action.
If you’re taking the kids for a day out they’ll definitely want to hang out at Winter Wonderland, a separate kids-friendly area that’s set up like a wondrous alpine village. It features lots of snow-fun activities including tubing with tube and toboggan hire.
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How much does Snowplanet cost?
There are offers available through different promotions right throughout the year but a standard 2-hour pass cost $40 for children and students and $53 for adults. It’s only an extra $3 to upgrade for a further 4 hours so make sure you check out all of the pricing offers and find the best deal for you.
Equipment and clothing can be rented on-site and tuition is also available. Be aware that it is below freezing in Snowdome and wear your winter woollies and waterproofs to ward off frostbite!
How cold is it at Snowplanet?
According to the Snowplanet website, the snow dome temperature hovers around -50C on average so you will need to wrap up warm, especially if you are planning on spending the day there.
The reason for the cold temperatures is the fact that you are skiing or boarding on ‘real’ snow, not an artificial slope. Fresh snow is produced three nights a week at various times in order to keep the slope in optimum condition. The snow is groomed every night to ensure it’s pristine at the start of every day, ready for you to carve it up!
How to get to Snowplanet
Getting to Snowplanet couldn’t be easier as it’s just a short 30-minute drive from Auckland CBD. If you are flying into Auckland and fancy doing something different, you can always pick up a rental car at Auckland Airport and make the 45-minute drive to Snowplanet via SH16 and SH1. Take the Silverdale exit and Snowplanet is well sign posted.
Plan your Snowplanet experience today!
As you can see, there are plenty of great reasons to plan your first Snowplanet trip today. No matter what time of year it is, you’ll be able to enjoy all the great fun of hitting the slopes and more!
