An ice festival was held in the Maniototo township on Saturday, and people attending were free to enjoy ice skating, indoor curling, and the chance of trying out an outdoor natural ice luge for the first time.
Sunshine made for a festive atmosphere despite cool temperatures, and people of all ages, shapes, and abilities made the most of activities on offer.
New Zealand Olympic Luge Association president Geoff Balme said up to 100 people took to Naseby's natural ice luge, which was shortened to a length of 180m for the benefit of beginners.
Mr Balme and visiting Canadian luge professional Greg Jones made sure amateurs were given coaching tips before descending the ice.
While many made unplanned contact with the luge's wooden sides, all sported smiles at the finish line.
Indoor curling also proved popular, with the Maniototo International Curling Rink staff busy throughout the weekend.
Rink development officer Nelson Ede yesterday said numbers through the door had yet to be determined, although the general feeling was good.
"There was tremendous response and everything went really well.
This is the first year we've really been able to hold the festival, as last year we tried, but didn't have enough ice for the luge," he said.
Mr Ede said Sunday afternoon was noticeably quieter as people returned home during the last few hours of the school holidays.
Despite that, several large groups had booked the curling rink, making for a busy weekend.
A new refrigeration system underneath the outdoor Maniototo Ice Rink ensured ice skating was also at its best for the visitors to Naseby.
Those happy to just watch rather than try their luck on the ice were treated to the New Zealand luge championships yesterday, when about 30 competitors vied for the fastest time down the track.
Between 10am and midday luge riders were given a few attempts, after which a prizegiving was held.
