Snow Farm is here for the long run — we’re caring for this place so it can be enjoyed for generations to come.
Snow Farm NZ recognises that our responsibility extends beyond providing recreation – it includes protecting the alpine environment we operate in. Our sustainability goals focus on measurable actions—improving renewable energy use, reducing waste, providing for the community and supporting conservation efforts. By integrating sustainability into everyday operations, we aim to preserve the alpine landscape for future generations.
We are always open to new ideas and welcome any feedback – info@snowfarm.nz.
Goal 1: Expand solar energy use
Snow Farm isn’t connected to mains power — which brings its challenges, but also creates real opportunity to do things differently.
Meadow and Musterers huts are already powered by solar, and expanding this across the wider facility is a key next step for us.
Currently, our base building relies on a diesel generator. By introducing solar into the base area, we can significantly reduce that dependence, lower our emissions, and move closer to running more of Snow Farm on clean, renewable energy.
Goal 2: Reduce waste & Improve recycling efforts
From our base building and café to hut supplies, we generate a range of waste including food scraps, recyclables, and general waste.
We’re working to introduce clear recycling systems across the base area and café, supported by signage to help visitors sort waste correctly. Alongside this, we’re reducing single-use items and encouraging reusable alternatives — including initiatives like moving away from disposable coffee cups.
We are also enforcing stricter waste policies for our hut visitors – ensuring 100% of hut guests take their own rubbish out with them.
Goal 3: Promote carpooling & shared rides
Everyone who visits Snow Farm arrives under their own steam — and with many people heading to the same place at similar times, transport is one of our biggest opportunities to reduce our impact.
We aim to encourage carpooling through our designated carpool zone at the base of the hill, and making it easy for people to link up and share rides — via WhatsApp and Facebook groups.
During busy periods, we’re also exploring options like shuttles or buses to help reduce the number of vehicles on the road — making the trip up smoother for everyone, and a little lighter on the environment.
Goal 4: Enhance community wellbeing
We’re committed to reducing barriers to participation, whether that’s through affordable season passes that encourage people to get outside regularly, or maintaining accessible pricing for school groups and ski programs.
Creating a friendly, inclusive atmosphere is just as important. Snow Farm is a place where people can feel comfortable getting outdoors, connecting with others, and experiencing the landscape in a safe and respectful way.
We also work alongside local clubs and organisations to host community events, helping bring people together and build a stronger connection to both the place and each other.
Goal 5: Snow Farming (Fencing)
At Snow Farm, we work with the environment rather than against it. Snowmaking is not currently a viable option due to it’s intensive energy and water requirements. Instead, we use snow fencing to capture and hold natural snowfall, protecting it from wind and helping it settle where it’s needed most. This method is also used in Europe and the USA.
This “snow farming” approach allows us to make the most of what nature provides, while reducing energy use. In conjunction with the Pisa Alpine Charitable Trust (PACT), we are committed to continuing fencing projects to help us retain more snow.