Advent of Skiing at Temple Basin
The history of early skiing from Arthur's Pass to Temple Basin
Canterbury
I was born into a family with a natural love for the mountains. Early holidays were invariably spent in our Bach at Arthur’s Pass.
I was introduced to Temple Basin by a great family friend Andy Anderson, the schoolteacher at Otira School best known for his mountaineering, the first person to climb all of New Zealand’s 10,000ft mountains. So began my life-long association with Temple Basin.
This has inspired me to write this story, to put on record an exceptional contribution from previous generations who have left us a legacy we can enjoy summer and winter and in between.
Precious family photos and memories of the early years have been provided by contributing families, adding to copious Club records, articles from “Papers Past” and photos from many friends of Temple Basin, all helping to enhance this history.
I now need assistance to ensure that this history is published.
Use of funds
Obtaining photographs of early Arthur's Pass and Temple Basin. Compiling the chronological history of the club and early skiing. Researching and documenting the memories and contributions from members and others. All the costs for book publication.
Latest update
Temple of Dreams Update 14th October 2025 15 October 2025
Wonderful assistance from people who have had a strong connection with Temple Basin over many years has enabled the completion of the writing as follows:
Part Three “Vital and Versatile” is now finished, bringing the completed writing up to 231 pages. The development of skiing in Arthur’s Pass and Temple Basin up to the early 1970s is now well documented in Parts One, Two and Three, including some wonderful and precious photographs.
Part Four “Building for the Future” is well underway with 21 separate topics plus many illustrations. These include all the major hut building activities, record snow years, summer school camps, ski patrols, mountain safety courses, the conservation issue, big mountain events, skiing and snowboarding, and the great 75th Anniversary. Work so far has been extensive. Members of the Arthur’s Pass community are also currently archiving important historical documents in preparation for the writing of a book for the Anniversary of the National Park in 2029. They have given very positive feedback on my work, recognizing Temple Basin as an integral part of the Park’s recreational role.
However, it will be difficult for me to finalize my writing without further financial assistance.
If you could help me with this, I will be most grateful.
Latest donations
A great start to the New Year with a wonderful donation from John Corbett. John with a strong interest in mountaineering came to Temple Basin following three seasons rowing for the Canterbury Rowing Club. In the Annual report for the 1980 season, John's contribution was recorded as follows. " John Corbett provided excellent service as Mountain Manager and was ably assisted by Richard Dewar. while Sandra ensured that the collection of tow fees was more efficient than in previous years."
What a great contribution from Richard whose important role as Goods Lift driver is now 45 yrs ago. He provided a critical service running multiple loads up and down to and from Temple Basin, seven days a week.
Peter’s contribution is most appreciated. He has contributed majorly to the development of Temple Basin over a lifetime. His untiring efforts on the mountain have been matched by his support with management and accounting matters. A good example of this is detailed in the book covering the building of the New University Hut. “In March 1964 the hut shell was completed and most of the flooring laid, everything ready for internal lining. However, on March 26 a severe NW gale ripped the roof off the hut. The same gale damaged 5,200 ha of the Eyrewell Balmoral forest. Salvage work began immediately. Peter Ballantyne and Ross Campbell then made a fast trip to Christchurch to arrange insurance and get power tools.”
What a generous donation from Andy. He was a star in the great days of the University Ski Club and has recently published his great book Alpine Panorama. This wonderful book covers in detail the 133 peaks visible from the Port Hills that he has climbed.
Dear Geoff, Thanks so much for helping out once again. Your contribution to Temple Basin can be judged by us all, as I can't think of a structure at Temple Basin that has not had your hand on it in some form or other. I have a great story to tell about many like you.
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