Reviewed by: Geoff, DoubleDiamond, from Killington, Vt USA
Summary: I caught a day at Ohau a couple of years ago in late September. I lucked out and had a boot top powder day. The cover under that fluff wasn't perfect but I was entertained skiing untracked powder all day with maybe 25 other people. I wouldn't want to spend weeks here but I'm glad I visited and would recommend the lodge and a days skiing to anyone as a stopover point if you're driving between Christchurch and Queenstown/Wanaka.
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Reviewed by: Bob Hatcher, DoubleDiamond, from Boston, Mass. USA
Summary: I visited Ohau in October 1999. The views were spectacular. Lake Ohau is right below the mountain, and its surreal blue color is simply spectacular.
The snow was particularly bad that day, as the area is very exposed, baking the snow then having it re-freeze at night. Terrain-wise it's OK, in-bounds terrain is poor, but if you hike a bit then you get to some cool bowls and ridges.
Ohau's claim to fame is that it has the longest T-Bar in the southern hemisphere. Who-hoo. It was woefully uncomfortable and it was a challenge to make it all the way to the top.
The best strength of this resort is its ticket prices and views. But if you are looking for a quality ski destination and are willing to pay for it, check out Cardrona or Coronet - if you're from overseas, they're still significantly cheaper than an American or European resort.
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