The Lee family is a pioneer in the New Zealand Snow Sports Industry.Their history in the Cardrona Valley dates back to 1924, with the family’s skilegacy beginning in 1970 when John turned from farming to tourism as essentialservices were being gradually removed from the valley due to a populationdecline.  Over the past 38 yearsthe Lee Family developed the Cardrona Ski Area, followed by the Snow Farm crosscountry ski area, Vehicle Testing Grounds (Southern Hemisphere Proving Ground),and more recently Snow Park (freestyle resort).

The Lee family’s development goals have always had a community focus, initially to maintain crucial services, and now to preserve anddevelop the quality of life for residents in the valley.  The Cardrona Valley now has over 100residents and over 500 accommodation beds.

Snow Park opened to the public only four years ago as the first dedicated freestyle terrain park in the world. Looking at it now, it is hard to believe it started out with a handful of temporary shed-like buildings, a coffee machine and a pie warmer. However, the park has always had a special charm, and what it initially lacked in facilities it made up with vibe, culture and some of the most progressive terrain ever seen.

It hasn’t been easy, that’s for sure. A lack of natural snow thwarted the opening in 2002, best-laid plans went awry and our snow making equipment arrived late and we didn’t open in 2002. Season pass holders had the option of a refund or a 2003 seasons pass, helping to rebuild our confidence many opted for a 2003 seasons pass. It meant that 2003 was make or break, and Snow Park made it, succeeding in creating a park that didn’t just stoke out the locals but international visitors as well.

Since then it has been onwards and upwards for one of the worlds most famous terrain parks. With over 20 magazine covers worldwide and having played host to international events like the Burton Open and Billabong Bro Down and to top it off a one off performance buy international superstar Lupe Fiasco.

Snow Park today is a warm and friendly resort with a strong community focus. Our locals make the Snow Park atmosphere, and our visitors from further afield only add to the charm and character that is so infectious. A visit to Snow Park is a experience, thats more than snowboarding or skiing.