Tasman & Murchison Glaciers: A very popular and reliable venue is Kelman Hut at the head of the Tasman Glacier. Access is by ski plane from Mount Cook Village. Kelman Hut is the base for day trips on the Tasman and Murchison Glaciers. For intermediate skiers the Tasman Glacier offers many runs of gentle gradient. Hochstetter Dome, an easy beginners' mountain, can be climbed from here.

For the more advanced skiers the Murchison Glacier and its tributaries as well as the Darwin and Bonney Glaciers offer many rewarding ski runs. Mounts Sydney King, Mannering and Elie de Beaumont are outstanding peaks that may be attempted. Being to the east of the Main Divide the Tasman and Murchison Glaciers often enjoy perfect powder snow.

For ski mountaineers a crossing from the Tasman to the Franz Josef Glacier is possible via the Rudolf Glacier and Graham Saddle.

Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers: The head of the Fox Glacier (Pioneer Hut) or Franz Josef Glacier (Centennial Hut) in the Westland National Park offer great venues on the western side of the Main Divide. Access is from Fox or Franz Josef Glacier townships by helicopter. While the weather on the West Coast is more changeable, the views over the Tasman Sea are unrivalled in the world. Mounts Grey, Lendenfeld and Tasman may be climbed from Pioneer Hut, the Minarets, Mount von Bulow and Drummond Peak are accessible from Centennial Hut.

Franz Josef Glacier
For competent skiers there are the ski-descent from the Glaciers via the Fritz Range, separating the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers and the magnifcent ski-run down past ice falls to Chancellor Hut or Almer Hut. These rate amongst the finest New Zealand has to offer.

Caroline Hut: For those with limited time or budget a trip to our Caroline Hut is an option for expert skiers, subject to safe snow conditions. No aircraft access needed. Steep skiing, great views of Mount Cook. This trip may also be undertaken with snow shoes.