Dlamini BlessingIce skating at the iconic Northgate Ice Rink remains a premier recreational and sporting activity in Johannesburg, offering a year-round winter escape for families, casual skaters, and aspiring athletes. For this year, understanding the pricing structure is key to planning an enjoyable and budget-friendly visit.
The costs are not a single ticket price but are structured around timed sessions, skate hire, optional extras, and specialised training programs. This guide provides a clear and detailed breakdown of the current pricing for public skating, lessons, and other services at Northgate Ice Rink, along with essential information on session times and how to make the most of your visit.
Ice Skating at Northgate Prices: A Guide for This Year
1. General Public Ice Skating Sessions
The core offering for casual visitors looking to skate during designated public sessions.
* **Standard 1-Hour Skate Session (including skate hire):
* Weekday Session (Monday – Thursday): Approximately R 110 – R 130 per person.
* Weekend & Public Holiday Session (Friday – Sunday): Approximately R 130 – R 150 per person.
* What’s Included: This fee grants you access to the ice for the duration of a specific public session (typically 1 to 1.5 hours) and includes the rental of standard ice skates (hockey or figure style available in common sizes).
* Family Package Deals:
* Family of 4 Special: Often available on selected weekdays or off-peak times, offering a discounted rate for two adults and two children. Expect a package price in the range of R 380 – R 450, representing a saving of 10-15% over individual tickets.
* Spectator Fee: For those not skating but accompanying a group, there is usually a minimal spectator fee of R 20 – R 30 to enter the rink area.
2. Extended Session and Specialty Skate Events
Options for longer skate times or themed events.
* Extended / “Happy Hour” Sessions: Some sessions, often on weekday afternoons or late evenings, may offer 90-minute to 2-hour skate times at a slight premium or the same price as a standard 1-hour session. Confirm the specific timetable when planning your visit.
* Disco or Theme Nights: Periodically, the rink hosts special evening sessions with disco lights and music. Tickets for these events are typically R 150 – R 180 and may include a themed giveaway or a hot drink. These are popular and often require pre-booking.
3. Skate Academy & Professional Lessons
For those wishing to learn properly or advance their skills, Northgate’s Skate Academy is the official training provider.
* Group Lessons (Beginner to Advanced):
* Per Lesson Cost (as part of a term): Roughly **R 150 – R 200 per weekly lesson. Lessons are usually booked in a term package (e.g., 8-10 weeks). The first-term package often includes basic skate hire for lessons.
* Structure: Classes are divided by age and skill level (Snowplough Sam for toddlers, Basic Skills for older beginners, and advanced figure skating or hockey skills).
* Private Coaching (One-on-One):
* Per Half-Hour Lesson: R 300 – R 450, depending on the coach’s qualifications and level. This is for focused, personalised skill development in figure skating, ice dancing, or hockey skating fundamentals. Coaching fees are paid directly to the accredited coach, plus the standard ice session fee if applicable.
4. Ice Hockey and Figure Skating Practice Sessions
Dedicated ice time for registered club members and athletes.
* Club Ice Time: Members of the affiliated hockey clubs (like the Northgate Ice Hockey Club) or figure skating clubs pay monthly membership fees which include allocated practice sessions. These are not generally available to the public. Membership fees vary widely based on the club and level.
* Stick & Puck Sessions: For hockey enthusiasts not in a club, there may be informal “Stick & Puck” sessions where players can practice with equipment. The cost is usually similar to a public session fee, plus any additional equipment rental (hockey skates, stick, helmet can add R 80 – R 120).
5. Party and Group Booking Packages
Northgate is a popular venue for birthday parties and corporate events.
* Standard Birthday Party Package:
* Price Range: R 3,500 – R 5,500 for a group of 10-15 children.
* Typical Inclusions: A reserved party table for 1.5 hours, 1-hour skate session with skate hire for all guests, a basic party pack (hats, maybe a gift for the birthday child), and a voucher for hot chocolate or slush puppies for each child. Food (like pizza) is usually an add-on.
* Corporate/Group Bookings: Custom quotes are provided for large groups. These can include exclusive ice time, catering options, and team-building activities facilitated by instructors.
Key Factors and Additional Costs to Consider
* Session Times are Fixed: Public skating operates on a strict schedule. It is crucial to check the Northgate Ice Rink website or social media pages for the current month’s timetable before visiting, as sessions change and maintenance closures occur.
* Sock Requirement: For hygiene, you must wear socks with rental skates. If you forget, they are sold at the pro shop for around R 25 – R 40 a pair.
* Lockers: Small lockers are available to store bags, shoes, and personal items. The cost is typically R 10 – R 20, refundable or requiring a coin/token.
* Food and Beverages: The rink has a café. Prices are standard for a mall venue—a hot dog or slice of pizza costs R 40 – R 70, and hot chocolate around R 25 – R 35.
* Skate Aids (Penguins/Bears): For very young or unsteady skaters, push-along skate aids are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis for an additional R 30 – R 50 per session.
* Own Skates: If you have your own skates, entry to a public session is usually R 20 – R 40 cheaper than the all-inclusive ticket.
How to Save Money and Plan Your Visit
1. Go on a Weekday: The most significant saving comes from avoiding weekends and school holidays. Tuesday-Thursday afternoon sessions are usually the quietest and cheapest.
2. Look for Online Promotions: Follow their Facebook or Instagram pages for flash sales, “2-for-1” midweek specials, or school holiday promotions.
3. Book Parties in Advance: For birthday parties, booking well in advance (4-6 weeks) can secure better time slots and ensure availability.
4. Dress Appropriately: The rink is cold. Wear long pants (jeans/track pants) and a jacket or jersey. Gloves are highly recommended, especially for beginners who may touch the ice.
5. Arrive Early: Arrive 30 minutes before your session starts to allow time for parking (Northgate mall parking can be busy), ticket purchase, fitting skates, and storing your belongings.
In summary, a standard ice skating outing at Northgate this year for an individual will cost approximately R 110 – R 150, including skate hire. For a family of four, budget R 400 – R 550 for the skating itself, plus extra for snacks and lockers. The most cost-effective approach is a weekday visit, and the best experience comes from checking the session timetable online in advance and dressing warmly. Whether for a fun family activity, a first lesson, or a special celebration, Northgate Ice Rink continues to provide a unique and enjoyable cold-weather experience in the heart of Johannesburg.