The sale of one of New Zealand’s most popular snow sport destinations, the locally treasured Mount Dobson Ski Area in Canterbury, presents a unique opportunity to acquire a standalone alpine business with significant upside potential amid resurgent tourism and appetite in lifestyle assets, Bayleys brokers say.

Bayleys Christchurch-based Business, Tourism, and Commercial sales specialist Kate Mullins is marketing the operational Mount Dobson Ski Field business and its leasehold land interest for sale by negotiation.

Mullins says that following more than four decades of ownership and development, the current operator is stepping back as part of a succession strategy, opening the door for new capital and vision to realise the ski field’s untapped potential.

“The sale comes at a time when demand for experience and outdoor tourism is rising, with winter sports positioned as a key growth sector in the domestic and international markets.”

Between Lake Tekapo and Fairlie, the Mount Dobson Ski Area spans approximately 400ha in the scenic Two Thumbs Range. The ski field is directly accessible off State Highway 8 – the primary tourist route between Christchurch and Queenstown – with a car park situated at 1,725m, the highest in the country.

“The area benefits from some of the most consistent snowfall nationwide, natural shelter, and favourable terrain that attracts snow enthusiasts of all abilities.”

Established in 1979, the ski field has a strong brand presence in its core markets, with reliable visitation and spare capacity to absorb additional growth.

Mullins says its infrastructure includes four lifts, well-maintained base facilities, and groomed trails spread across two large basins.

“Recent improvements and a 30-year lease with the Department of Conservation (DOC) underpin long-term operational security and provide a strong foundation for future development.

“With the rise in tourism to the Mackenzie District and growing interest in winter adventure sports, Mount Dobson is ideally positioned for expansion. The fundamentals are present – it simply needs a new steward with the strategic direction to take it to the next level.”

Mullins says the opportunity is positioned to attract international interest, with enquiries steadily growing as New Zealand is favoured for its political stability, open investment climate, and attractive lifestyle proposition.

“Tourism is one of New Zealand’s largest export sectors and continues to show strong recovery post-pandemic. Skiing plays a significant role in the visitor economy, particularly during the off-season months for the northern hemisphere markets.

“South Island ski fields attract a mix of domestic and international visitors, with increasing interest from Australia, Japan and the United Kingdom.”

Mullins says nearby towns, including Lake Tekapo, are experiencing a wave of high-end hospitality and residential development, creating opportunities to leverage existing and future visitor demand with improved amenities, accommodation and complementary experiences.

“This is a unique chance to secure a turnkey tourism asset in one of New Zealand’s most picturesque and high-potential alpine regions. With long-term leases in place, loyal clientele, and clear pathways for growth, Mount Dobson is ready for its next chapter.”