Top winter experiences in and around Naseby
Winter atmosphere: crisp alpine air and quiet days
Naseby is often described as "2000 feet above worry level". In winter that altitude brings a true alpine feel: cold, clear mornings, regular frosts and a good chance of snowfalls on the surrounding hills. The historic town, forest and nearby dams create a classic winter scene that is rare in New Zealand.
Daytime temperatures are usually in the low single digits in mid winter, so layers, a good jacket, gloves and a beanie make all the difference. The upside is that you get that satisfying contrast - crisp, cold air outside and a warm apartment to return to - without the crowds of larger ski towns.
- Peaceful streets and forest tracks that stay quiet even in school holidays
- Frosty mornings, blue-sky days and snow on the surrounding ranges
- Historic gold-era buildings and the nearby forest creating a classic winter village feel
Ice skating, curling and the Naseby ice luge
A short walk or drive from Naseby Apartments, the Maniototo Adventure Park features the refrigerated Naseby Ice Rink, the outdoor ice luge and a family-friendly snow park. Skate hire, helmets and stabilisers are available, making it easy for beginners of all ages.
Beside the rink runs the 360-metre Naseby Ice Luge, the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Instructors help you start slow and build confidence.
Naseby is known as New Zealand’s curling capital and home to the country’s first indoor curling rink. The covered facility offers year-round curling, while the outdoor sheets open when conditions allow. A fun chance to try an Olympic winter sport.
Check the official sites below for current opening dates, times and pricing before you travel: Maniototo Adventure Park - curling, ice skating, luge and snow park
Outdoor ice rink and snow park
Ideal for families, groups and anyone wanting to experience real outdoor ice.
- Refrigerated outdoor rink set among the trees
- Skate hire, helmets and stabilisers available on site
- Snow park area for sliding, playing and photos in the snow
- Check seasonal dates and ice conditions on the Maniototo Adventure Park website
Indoor and outdoor curling
Curling has deep roots in Central Otago and Naseby sits at the heart of the sport in New Zealand.
- International-standard indoor rink with public sessions and group bookings
- Outdoor curling sheets beside the ice rink in suitable conditions
- Coaches and staff can introduce you to the basics in a relaxed way
- The indoor rink is a reliable option on very cold, windy or snowy days when you want a weather-safe activity
Backcountry and cross-country skiing near Mt Ida and Mt Buster
For experienced back-country skiers, the high country around Mount Ida and Mount Buster in Oteake Conservation Park can, in good snow seasons, provide ski-touring and basic cross-country opportunities. There are no groomed tracks, no on-site services, and access is only by rough high-country roads or tracks, meaning you must be fully self-sufficient and avalanche aware.
Winter stargazing in New Zealand's first Dark Sky Community
In September 2025, Naseby was recognised as New Zealand's first International Dark Sky Community, thanks to its very low light pollution and careful outdoor lighting rules. Combined with the cold, clear air of winter and long nights, that makes Naseby one of the best places in the country to simply step outside and look up.
On a clear night you can see the Milky Way arching overhead, the Magellanic Clouds, star clusters and - at the right time of year - bright planets. Away from any porch lights, your eyes will adjust and you will notice far more stars than in most towns and cities.
If you would like a guided introduction, Naseby Night Sky Tours offers small-group dark-sky experiences with telescopes and a knowledgeable local guide. Tours typically start in the town and may move to a nearby viewing site where equipment is set up under a clear southern horizon.
Coming back to a warm, well insulated apartment
After a day on the ice, in the snow or under the stars, where you stay makes all the difference. Naseby Apartments were designed as modern eco-builds with extra insulation and double glazing, so they hold the heat well and stay comfortable even on very cold nights.
Each apartment has new heat pumps in the living areas and underfloor heating in the bathrooms, so you can warm up quickly when you come inside. Many winter guests choose to stay two or three nights, which gives them time to mix ice sports, quiet forest walks and an evening under the dark sky without rushing.
Explore more Naseby themes
Winter is only one side of Naseby. You can combine a cold-season visit with other experiences, or come back at a different time of year to see how the town changes with the seasons. Each of these themes has its own short guide:
See all themes on the main Things to do in Naseby page.
Ready to plan your winter stay?
Naseby offers a rare combination of real winter conditions, family friendly ice sports, quiet alpine days and exceptionally dark skies. Booking a warm, well equipped apartment is the simplest way to lock in your base while you decide which activities to include.