Cardrona ski area founder John Lee dies aged 89

Wednesday 24 December 2025 · 5 outlets · 3 reports · updated Wed 24 Dec 2025, 6:20pm

Otago businessman and entrepreneur John Allandale Lee has died peacefully on Sunday evening. Surrounded by family, the Wānaka farmer was remembered for founding New Zealand's largest ski area and his significant contributions to the Upper Clutha community.

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10:34am2:29pm6:20pm

1. Waikato Times via The PressWed 24 Dec 2025, 10:34am

   'Bold, visionary' Cardrona ski pioneer dies peacefully, aged 89 (opens in new tab)

   Also on The Post (opens in new tab), The Press (opens in new tab)

2. RNZWed 24 Dec 2025, 2:29pm

   Wānaka entrepreneur John Lee remembered as key figurehead (opens in new tab)

3. 1News via RNZWed 24 Dec 2025, 6:20pm

   Cardrona ski field founder John Lee dies at 89 (opens in new tab)