Hawea is a stones throw from 2 of the best ski and boarding mountains in New Zealand.

Treble Cone offers outstanding terrain for the intermediate to advanced skier and boasts some of the best lift accessible chutes in the country.

Cardrona, in contrast, is the ultimate family mountain with ample learning terrain right through to advanced. It is a slick operation catering to all a family needs. They also have a raft of terrain parks for all levels.

If snowsports aren't your thing, Hawea offers a wide range of riding and walking options and on a still winters name is some of the best scenery in the world.

If you need some civilization then Wanaka is a 10 minute drive from Hawea and boasts a wide range of cafes, bars and shops. The Basecamp Climbing Wall is in Wanaka next to the Lone Star and can kill a couple of hours with the kids.