Looking for a winter escape that combines luxury, adventure, and tranquillity? Nestled in the peaceful lakeside township of Hāwea, just outside Wānaka, Cross Hill Lodge & Domes offers the perfect winter getaway. Far from the hustle and bustle, Hāwea is a sanctuary for rest and relaxation—where you can soak under the stars, savour gourmet dinners, and still hit the slopes at world-renowned ski resorts during the day. Here’s everything you can expect from a winter stay at Cross Hill.
A Luxury Winter Retreat
At Cross Hill, your stay centres around comfort and connection. Our architecturally designed geodesic domes feature plush king beds, private ensuites, wood-burning fires, and panoramic views of the mountains and starry skies from inside your dome. Wake each morning to a cooked breakfast of your choosing, served at a time that suits your ski schedule. Whether you’re heading out early to catch first chair or enjoying a slow morning, you’ll be well-fuelled for the day ahead.
Close to NZ’s Best Ski Fields
For snow lovers, Cross Hill is perfectly positioned near some of the South Island’s top ski resorts:
- Cardrona and Treble Cone in Wānaka are just a short drive away.
- Coronet Peak (with night skiing) and The Remarkables in Queenstown are also within reach for a day trip.
After a full day on the slopes, there’s nothing better than returning to your dome, lighting the fire, and enjoying the peace and quiet of Hāwea.
Relaxation & Rejuvenation
Winter at Cross Hill is about more than just skiing. Treat yourself to a massage at the Lodge to ease tired muscles, or enjoy a private soak in our cedar hot tub, set amongst the native bush. For the ultimate rejuvenation, unwind in The Secret Sauna, a wood-fired, lakeside sauna tucked into the trees—exclusive to Cross Hill guests. Breathe in the alpine air, warm up, and experience a moment of stillness.
An Indulgent Culinary Experience
Evenings at Cross Hill are a celebration of flavour, connection, and refined comfort. Each night, our guests gather in the warm, welcoming ambience of Cross Hill Lodge to enjoy chef-curated, multi-course degustation experience designed to reflect the season’s finest local ingredients.
Imagine Lake Hāwea venison—ethically raised on the alpine pastures of our sister company, Glen Dene Station, expertly prepared to showcase its tender texture and deep, refined flavour. Paired with locally foraged ingredients and elegant, handcrafted desserts, each element of the meal is thoughtfully curated gastronomic experience to delight the senses. You may also experience succulent Central Otago lamb or other seasonal highlights woven into the menu. Evenings at Cross Hill feel like an exclusive chef’s table experience, where beautifully plated shared dishes encourage connection in the warm, sophisticated setting of our luxury alpine lodge.
Our chef work closely with local growers, butchers, and artisans to craft menus that change daily and celebrate the best of the region. Paired with premium New Zealand wines and exceptional hospitality, dining at Cross Hill is an experience in itself—soul-warming, sophisticated, and deeply satisfying after a day on the mountain.
Stargazing Like No Other
With minimal light pollution, Hāwea’s night skies offer some of the best stargazing in New Zealand. From the warmth of your dome or during a hot tub session under the stars, you’ll witness the southern sky in all its brilliance—Milky Way and all.
Your Adventures Base
If you’re keen to explore beyond the slopes, we can help organise a range of winter-friendly experiences like scenic flights, wine tasting, horse trekking, hiking and guided nature walks – you can explore all the options available on our Experiences page.
Alternatively, you can book directly through our trusted partner Planit, making it easy to tailor your winter escape with local activities and guides. This app will connect you to a team of personal travel assistants – they’ll guide you to craft the trip of a lifetime. Use code “CROSSHILL” to receive exclusive discounts on activities all across the country.
Easy Access to Cross Hill
Reaching Cross Hill is part of the adventure. Fly into Queenstown International Airport, where you can easily rent a car and take the scenic drive—either over the iconic Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest main road, offering breathtaking alpine views (and the Cardona Distillery), or via the Kawarau Gorge and Bannockburn, renowned for their world-class wineries and dramatic landscapes. Prefer to relax from the moment you land? We’re happy to arrange a private pick-up, so you can sit back and soak in the views stress-free.
- Queenstown International Airport offers direct flights from major cities in Australia and beyond, with a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Hāwea.
- Wānaka Airport is closer and ideal for domestic travellers arriving from other parts of New Zealand.
Whether you’re flying in from abroad or travelling from within the country, you’ll find Cross Hill accessible yet perfectly tucked away from it all.
Cross Hill offers a rare balance of adventure and indulgence. A haven for avid skiers who value both performance and comfort, and a retreat for couples and solo travellers seeking rejuvenation. With luxurious domes, on-site wellness experiences, delicious seasonal food, and easy access to ski fields, you’ll find everything you need for a winter escape like no other.
Book your winter stay at Cross Hill now—where snow-capped mountains meet lakeside serenity.