LEARN TO SKI OR SNOWBOARD AND DISCOVER THE FUN!
Here at Porters, we have fantastic terrain and lifts suited for beginner skiers and boarders. Our beginners carpet lift and expansive beginners area is perfect for first timers, while the Platter lift and intermediate area is the perfect transition before moving onto the Easy Rider chair lift and further up the ski area.
First Timer Learn to Ski or Snowboard Packages
If it is your first time skiing or snowboarding beginners package to get you started.
Lesson start times : 10:30am and 1:30pm
The package includes:
- Lift Pass – beginners lift pass
- Equipment rental – Skis/Boots/Poles or Snowboard/Boots
- Lesson – 2 hour level 1 group lesson with a fully qualified instructor
The PLUS version of this package includes Porter's Food and Beverage package.
| First Timer Packages (level 1 only) |
ADULT |
STUDENT |
YOUTH |
CHILD/75+** |
| Learn to Ski or Snowboard Package | $99 | $99 | $79 | $79 |
| Learn to Ski or Snowboard Package PLUS | $129 | $129 | $109 | $99 |
| + upgrade to include afternoon lesson (per person) | $20 | $20 | $20 | $20 |
Kid's Camp
Kids Camp is designed for 4-6 year old's and runs every Sunday and throughout the July School holidays from 10:30am. The focus is an enjoyable time on the snow.
The package includes:
- Lift Pass – a beginners lift pass to use the lifts
- Equipment rental – Skis/Boots/Poles
- Lesson – 2 hour level 1 group lesson with a fully qualified instructor
| Kid's Camp (level 1 only) | CHILD | |
| Kid's Camp |
$50 |
Please make sure you get to the ski area at least one hour before your lesson starts. (You need to turn up for your class 5 minutes before it begins). Note that all group lessons take place at the beginners' carpet lift.
For Lessons higher than level 1 please check our group and private lesson options here or ask our team at the ticket office.
If you have any queries regarding our rates, please contact us for more information.
Porters' beginners guide to the snow
Participating in snow-sports opens a whole new world of possibilities to enjoy endless winter fun. But everyone agrees, your first experience at a mountain can be a bit overwhelming. We realise this, so to help make your first mountain experience enjoyable, we've put together this guide to help you navigate your first day on the slopes.
This section offers information to help you be well prepared for your day on the slopes. We also offer a few guidelines regarding strategies for refuelling your body and maintaining your comfort level while on the mountain.
Before you arrive up the mountain...
Winterise your car
Before you travel to the mountain, make sure your car is ready for the colder alpine environment. Top up all fluids, including antifreeze and windshield washer fluid. You should buy or hire a set of chains and always carry them in your car. In time you may want a rooftop rack to carry skis or snowboards. Make sure to zip your car keys into a secure pocket when you leave the car. As a back-up, give an extra set to someone else in your party.
Make a checklist
Make a checklist of the essential items you need, and check it before leaving for the ski area. If you do forget something, we do sell lots of items at our shop in the customer service office including clothing, socks, gloves, hats, caps, goggles and sunscreen.
When you arrive on the mountain...
Do you need to store your belongings?
There are lockers at the ski area. Ask the team at the ticket office, and they can hire you a locker for the day.
Do you need a lesson?
Lift tickets are available right at the Customer Service desk. We strongly recommend our beginners packages for all first-timers, giving you a great introduction, and saving you money at the same time. Using the latest equipment and teaching techniques, our Snow-sports Instructors are committed to your enjoyment.
If you're planning to take advantage of our learn to ski/board packages go directly to the Customer Service Desk to sign up for your lesson. Beginner’s lessons are at 9am,11.30am or 2pm You should arrive about an hour before your lesson starts.
You can also sign up for Private Lessons and various other group lessons and clinics at the Customer Service Desk located next to the ticket office.
Rental equipment
If you just need to rent equipment, we have a rental shop in the base area between the ticket office and the café. You need to pay for your rental equipment at the ticket office, not the rental shop. We also have high-end rental skis available.
Purchase a lift ticket
Lift tickets are included with our Beginner’s Packages. However, if you are not purchasing one of these lesson packages, you will need to purchase a lift ticket. You can purchase a lift ticket by going to our ticket windows. Ticket windows are located in the front of the base building facing the parking lot. For current ticket prices, visit the rates page on the Porters website.
That's it! You're ready to tackle the mountain and all it has to offer! So, now you're through the sign-up process, you have your ticket, rental equipment, lesson, etc. Here are some pointers regarding places to eat, amenities, etc.
While you are on the mountain...
Wear layers
Wearing layers keeps you warmer and lets you adjust clothing as the day gets warmer or colder. You can add or remove layers to remain comfortable. The two most important layers are the one closest to your skin and the one on the outside. The best underwear is absorbent and takes the perspiration away from your skin. The outermost layer, including pants, should be wind and water resistant. Clothes such as jeans or sweatpants absorb water, making you wet and cold. You can lose tremendous amounts of body heat through the top of your head. Wear, or carry, a hat at all times.
Wear mittens or gloves
Some prefer the added warmth of mittens, while others like the finger freedom of gloves. Snowboarders wear extra thick protection on their hands plus wrist guards. Whatever you prefer, always protect your hands from the elements and from injuries. Even on warm spring days, the snow is very abrasive on your bare skin.
Wear a helmet - It's a smart idea
Many snow-sports enthusiasts wear helmets. The best ones are light, comfortable, warm, and allow you to see and hear clearly. If you use one, you not only provide yourself added protection, you never have to worry about hats. Use a helmet especially designed for snow-sports. Rentals are available for children.
Wear sunscreen and lip balm
In the higher elevations of the mountain environment, the sun's rays are less filtered. Snow also reflects UV sun rays, making them even more intense. You can get severely sun burnt very quickly. Wind will burn your skin, too. Even if you have darker skin, or believe you always tan instead of burn, use strong sunscreen anyway.
Wear goggles/sunglasses
Infrared and ultraviolet rays can be extremely harmful to your eyes, especially at higher altitudes. Good quality sunglasses are an important investment. Wind, blowing snow, cold, and fog can also be very uncomfortable to your eyes. Goggles are every bit as important as sunglasses. Always take both with you, even if the day seems perfect. Remember, weather changes rapidly in the mountains. It's easy to be caught unprepared.
Understand your fitness level
Snow sports are for everyone - regardless of age, body type and fitness level. But it's important to work within your own fitness level. Pace yourself, don't venture too far from resting places and shelter, and don't overdo it. Stay with companions who are close to you in ability and fitness. As you progress in your abilities, you may consider regular workouts to prepare for mountain adventures.
Warm up and warm down
Cold weather tends to make your muscles more stiff and sluggish than normal. Allow yourself time to acclimate to the mountain environment before you head up-mountain. A few warm-up exercises and stretches pay big performance dividends. Keep moving until you can get inside, take off a few layers, and relax.
Drink plenty of water
Sun, wind, perspiration and altitude rob your body of fluids. In fact, you can become dehydrated long before you even feel thirsty. Stop frequently for water or carry it with you. Coffee, tea and soft drinks don't replenish your body fluids as well as plain water.
Eat well and have breaks
Good healthy food is available from our new Café & Bar. Come in for breakfast, lunch or morning and afternoon tea. Just relax and warm up around the open fire. Have a break when you start feeling tired.
Enjoy our facilities...
Porters Café
In our fully licenced cafeteria you can get good, hearty breakfasts and lunches. Please do not store your belongings under the tables in the cafeteria. Any unattended belongings will be removed by staff (or the bomb squad!) - this is simply a safety issue.
Porters Lodge
There is a 40 bed Lodge 10 minutes from the mountain with bunk type accommodation. It is a commercial Lodge run by our company. Bookings can be made by email lodge@skiporters.co.nz
Toilets and Telephones
Toilets are located next to the cafeteria. A public telephone is in the customer service area. There is no cell phone reception in the base area. We do offer wireless broadband internet – please check with staff for current charges.
Guest Services
Guest Services staff are ready to help you with all your needs. For directions, information, and helpful tips, just visit the Guest Services desk next to the ticket office
First Aid
We hope you'll never need them, but if you do, Porter Heights Ski Patrol is ready to help you. The First Aid Room is located in the Ski Patrol Hut, which is above the base buildings. Ask any staff member for assistance. We're happy to call Ski Patrol for you.
Enjoy Snow Sports!
Snow sports are exhilarating, especially as you try to learn something new or try to move to a higher skill level. Remember: it's all about fun. There is always help available from professional snow sports instructors at our Snow Sports School. For the best possible start to your new-found winter activity, contact the Snow Sports School at the customer service area.
Contact us
If you have any questions or require further advice, we're happy to help. Please contact us and we will be in touch.
Please note that all rates displayed are true and correct at the time of printing/publishing and are subject to change at any time without notice.
