Festival Programme
Daily Activities 4th July to 18th July
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Colouring Competition
10am - 6pm Everyday
Warm up this winter with a little creativity at the Thermal Pools Tea Kiosk Café! As part of the Alpine Winter Festival, we’re hosting a cosy winter-themed colouring competition that’s perfect for kids (and the young at heart). Grab a hot drink, settle in, and bring your snowy scene to life.
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Saturday 4th July
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9am - 5pm
Activities times all day for Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, and set times throughout the day for Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing and Archery Tag. See their website for more information.
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Alpine Craft Market
10am - 3pm
Soldiers Block, Queen Mary Hospital Grounds
Our curated craft market celebrates the creativity and craftsmanship of local talent, bringing together a vibrant mix of handmade goods, unique designs, and carefully crafted pieces that reflect the passion and skill of our community artisans.
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Roasting Marshmallows
12pm - 2pm
Hanmer Springs Animal Park
Come along to Hanmer Springs Animal Park, where you can enjoy a fun day surrounded by friendly animals and finish it off by roasting marshmallows over a warm fire.
Marshmallow packs are $5 - available to purchase with your paid park entry. Book your tickets at the gate.
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Pond Hockey
1:30pm - 5:30pm
Ice Skating Rink
Pond Hockey offers a fun and engaging experience for children to learn the basics of skating and ice hockey in a supportive, friendly environment. Young participants can build confidence on the ice while picking up new skills, followed by an exciting pond hockey demonstration that showcases the spirit and teamwork of this classic winter sport.
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Sunday 5th July
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Frosty Quest
10am Everyday
Hanmer Springs Village
Frosty invites families to take part in The Frosty Quest — a daily treasure hunt designed to spark curiosity, exploration, and connection. Check our socials at 10am everyday for the next clue to uncover Frosty’s hiding spot.
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Roasting Marshmallows
12pm - 2pm
Hanmer Springs Animal Park
Come along to Hanmer Springs Animal Park, where you can enjoy a fun day surrounded by friendly animals and finish it off by roasting marshmallows over a warm fire.
Marshmallow packs are $5 - available to purchase with your paid park entry. Book your tickets at the gate.
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Monday 6th July
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Children's Quiz Night
6:30pm - 7:30pm
The Gateway Tavern
Get ready for giggles and brain-teasing fun at a children’s quiz night at the Gateway Tavern, where young minds can team up, test their knowledge, and enjoy a lively evening of games and prizes. $5pp Entry Fee includes fizzy.
Email: groups@hanmergatewaylodge.co.nz to secure your spot.
Teams can have up to 6 children. Individuals are also welcome to come along, and we can form teams on the night.
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Night Light Tree Tops Climbing
5:30pm-7pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Climb under the stars in this one-of-a-kind night adventure! With glow lights, music, and fun family vibes, you'll scale towering trees in a magical after-dark setting. Perfect for kids, teens, and adults—it’s climbing like you’ve never experienced before. Ages 7+.
Tuesday 7th July
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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40 Years Below - One Year On Ice
7pm - 9pm
The Sports Pavilion - 65 Jacks Pass Rd
Fifty-five years ago, Roger Lusby wintered over as mechanic at Scott Base Antarctica. Over the last three years he has created a personal audio-visual show including pictures, stories, songs, poems & humour to share his experience.
Wednesday 8th July
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Meet the Mini-Beasts - Enter the Insect World
12:30 to 3:30 pm
Hanmer Springs Library
Explore the incredible world of insects and spiders up close with real display cases.
Canterbury Museum educators will be on hand to share their knowledge and answer your curious questions.
Chat with entomologist Morgane Merien, the museum’s Science Communicator and presenter of Bug Hunter on TVNZ+
Hurunui Biodiversity Trust is supporting this free drop-in event, suitable for all ages.
Free Event
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Night Light Tree Tops Climbing
5:30pm-7pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Climb under the stars in this one-of-a-kind night adventure! With glow lights, music, and fun family vibes, you'll scale towering trees in a magical after-dark setting. Perfect for kids, teens, and adults—it’s climbing like you’ve never experienced before. Ages 7+.
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Thursday 9th July
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Zootopia Family Movie
7pm - 9pm
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa
Enjoy a magical family friendly movie screening at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, where families can relax in the warm water while watching a fun film under the open sky.
Friday 10th July
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Hanmer Holiday Homes Bouncy Castle Party
10am - 4pm
Soldiers Block, Queen Mary
Get ready for big laughs and boundless energy at the Hanmer Holiday Homes Bouncy Castle Party, an indoor fun zone where kids can jump, bounce, and play to their hearts’ content while letting their imaginations run wild in a safe and lively space. Ages 3 to 12, $10pp per hour.
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Music with Michal
11am
The Gateway Tavern
Come along to the Gateway Tavern and enjoy a lively performance from Music with Michal, she’s known for her joyful and educational songs. This is a free, family-friendly event—made possible thanks to the generous support of Four Square Hanmer Springs.
Free Event
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Matariki Disco
6pm - 8pm
Ice Skating Rink
Celebrate Matariki in a truly cool way with a family-friendly disco on the ice! Glide under the lights to the beats of a live DJ, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and dance the night away on skates in this fun and unique winter celebration for all ages.
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Night Light Tree Tops Climbing
5:30pm-7pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Climb under the stars in this one-of-a-kind night adventure! With glow lights, music, and fun family vibes, you'll scale towering trees in a magical after-dark setting. Perfect for kids, teens, and adults—it’s climbing like you’ve never experienced before. Ages 7+.
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Adult Stargazing and Grazing
8pm - Late
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa
Experience an unforgettable evening of Adult Stargazing and Grazing at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, presented by Manuka Skies. Discover the wonder of Matariki as you learn about the night sky, enjoy a curated selection of canapés, and unwind with a relaxing soak in the thermal pools beneath the stars.
Saturday 11th July
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Music with Michal
11am
The Gateway Tavern
Come along to the Gateway Tavern and enjoy a lively performance from Music with Michal, she’s known for her joyful and educational songs. This is a free, family-friendly event—made possible thanks to the generous support of Four Square Hanmer Springs.
Free Event
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Hanmer Holiday Homes Bouncy Castle Party
10am - 4pm
Soldiers Block, Queen Mary
Get ready for big laughs and boundless energy at the Hanmer Holiday Homes Bouncy Castle Party, an indoor fun zone where kids can jump, bounce, and play to their hearts’ content while letting their imaginations run wild in a safe and lively space. Ages 3 to 12, $10pp per hour.
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Roasting Marshmallows
12pm - 2pm
Hanmer Springs Animal Park
Come along to Hanmer Springs Animal Park, where you can enjoy a fun day surrounded by friendly animals and finish it off by roasting marshmallows over a warm fire.
Marshmallow packs are $5 - available to purchase with your paid park entry. Book your tickets at the gate.
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Hot Naan Eating Challenge
12pm
Spice Village
🔥 Hot Naan Eating Challenge
Participants race to eat hot, freshly baked naan as fast as possible.
Fastest time wins in each age category.
Under 12
Over 12 & above
Enter on the day.
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Meet The Huskies
2pm - 4pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
They’ve done their racing, now it’s time to give them the belly rubs they deserve. Come and get up close to these beautiful and powerful canines.
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Activity Hanmer Archery Tag Tournament
4pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Get ready for the ultimate foam-tipped shootout! Archery Tag is like dodgeball meets paintball — but with bows and arrows. Fast, fun, and full of strategy, it’s all about teamwork and quick reflexes.
We’re hosting a FREE Archery Tag Tournament. There will be music and Epic Battles.
Teams of 4–6 players will compete in two divisions:
Junior: Ages 9–12
Senior: Ages 13+
Enter as a full team or register as an individual or small group — we’ll help form teams on the day so no one misses out.
Email - Office office@activityhanmer.co.nz to secure your place.
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Matariki Family Star Gazing
7:30pm - Late
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa
Enjoy a magical Family Stargazing experience at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, presented by Manuka Skies, where you can discover the beauty and meaning of Matariki while relaxing in the warm, soothing thermal waters. It’s a special opportunity for all ages to learn about the night sky, connect with the stars, and share a truly memorable winter evening together.
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Alpine Craft Market
10am - 3pm
Soldiers Block, Queen Mary Hospital Grounds
Our curated craft market celebrates the creativity and craftsmanship of local talent, bringing together a vibrant mix of handmade goods, unique designs, and carefully crafted pieces that reflect the passion and skill of our community artisans.
Sunday 12th July
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Roasting Marshmellows
12pm - 2pm
Hanmer Springs Animal Park
Come along to Hanmer Springs Animal Park, where you can enjoy a fun day surrounded by friendly animals and finish it off by roasting marshmallows over a warm fire.
Marshmallow packs are $5 - available to purchase with your paid park entry. Book your tickets at the gate.
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Monday 13th July
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Family Friendly Paint and Sip
2:30pm - 4:30pm
Saints Café, Restaurant & Bar
Bring the kids along and enjoy painting side by side in a relaxed atmosphere where creativity can run wild. We’ve got everything covered with all painting supplies included, plus your first drink on us. Adults can enjoy alcoholic options, while the kids can choose from juice and fizzy drinks.
A fun activity with a memorable piece to take home at the end.COST: $45 per person
Make a mess this winter fest
Limited seats available!Email Maggie@designwithwine.co.nz to make bookings.
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Night Light Tree Tops Climbing
5:30pm-7pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Climb under the stars in this one-of-a-kind night adventure! With glow lights, music, and fun family vibes, you'll scale towering trees in a magical after-dark setting. Perfect for kids, teens, and adults—it’s climbing like you’ve never experienced before. Ages 7+.
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Children's Quiz Night
6:30pm - 7:30pm
The Gateway Tavern
Get ready for giggles and brain-teasing fun at a children’s quiz night at the Gateway Tavern, where young minds can team up, test their knowledge, and enjoy a lively evening of games and prizes. $5pp Entry Fee includes fizzy.
Email: groups@hanmergatewaylodge.co.nz to secure your spot.
Teams can have up to 6 children. Individuals are also welcome to come along, and we can form teams on the night.
Tuesday 14th July
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Wednesday 15th July
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Activity Hanmer Activities
Description goes here9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Night Light Tree Tops Climbing
5:30pm-7pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Climb under the stars in this one-of-a-kind night adventure! With glow lights, music, and fun family vibes, you'll scale towering trees in a magical after-dark setting. Perfect for kids, teens, and adults—it’s climbing like you’ve never experienced before. Ages 7+.
Thursday 16th July
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Activity Hanmer Activies
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Family Movie
7pm - 9pm
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa
Enjoy a magical family friendly movie screening at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, where families can relax in the warm water while watching a fun film under the open sky.
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Friday 17th July
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Winter Disco
5pm - 8pm
The Gateway Tavern
Bring the kids and bust out your best moves at the Gateway Tavern's Winter Disco! As part of the Alpine Winter Festival, join us for a magical night of dazzling lights, feel-good tunes, and frosty fun for all ages. A night the whole family will be talking about long after the snow melts.
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Night Light Tree Tops Climbing
5:30pm-7pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Climb under the stars in this one-of-a-kind night adventure! With glow lights, music, and fun family vibes, you'll scale towering trees in a magical after-dark setting. Perfect for kids, teens, and adults—it’s climbing like you’ve never experienced before. Ages 7+.
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Saturday 18th July
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Ice Skating
9am - 5pm Sunday - Wednesday
9am - 8pm Thursday - Saturday
Ice Skating returns to Hanmer Springs in 2026 for the Alpine Winter Festival. Pop your skates on, find some mates and come and show us your moves. Session times available, follow the link for more information.
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Activity Hanmer Activities
9:00am - 5:00pm
Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Looking for a fun, active family experience? Check out the activities Activity Hanmer have on offer throughout the Alpine Winter Festival. Including Outdoor Puzzle Hunts, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing, Archery Tag. Perfect for kids and adults, these adventures build confidence, challenges limits, and creates awesome memories—with plenty of laughs along the way.
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Alpine Craft Market
10am - 3pm
Soldiers Block, Queen Mary Hospital
Our curated craft market celebrates the creativity and craftsmanship of local talent, bringing together a vibrant mix of handmade goods, unique designs, and carefully crafted pieces that reflect the passion and skill of our community artisans.
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Amuri Ski Field Open Day
10am - 4pm
Amuri Ski Field
Head up to the slopes and check out one of the best club fields in the country. Amuri opens their doors for the day, snow pending! 50% day passes.
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Roasting Marshmellows
12pm - 2pm
Hanmer Springs Animal Park
Come along to Hanmer Springs Animal Park, where you can enjoy a fun day surrounded by friendly animals and finish it off by roasting marshmallows over a warm fire.
Marshmallow packs are $5 - available to purchase with your paid park entry. Book your tickets at the gate.
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Festival Deals 2026
When you step foot in Hanmer Springs during the Alpine Winter Festival, you’ll be eligible to take advantage of heaps of deals from our festival partners. Hit the button below to check them out.

