Ice Skating at Northgate Prices (2025)

Nestled in the vibrant Northgate Shopping Centre in Randburg, Johannesburg, the Northgate Ice Rink offers a fun, fitness-friendly activity for families, teens, and thrill-seekers year-round. Whether you’re a beginner lacing up for the first time or a seasoned skater perfecting your spins, this indoor arena provides an exciting escape from the everyday. This article dives into the latest pricing details, session times, and everything you need to know to plan your visit. With a focus on affordability, accessibility, and an unforgettable experience, we’ll cover costs, special offers, and insider tips to make your ice skating adventure at Northgate seamless. From group rates to skate hire and learn-to-skate programs, we’ve got you covered with up-to-date, reliable information to help you glide into the fun.

Ice Skating Northgate Prices

Standard Entry (Per Session, Per Person): R95 for general sessions. This includes entry to the rink for a specific session, typically lasting 2–2.5 hours.
Skate Hire: R35 per person. Skate hire is optional if you bring your own ice skates, but the rink offers a range of sizes for convenience.
Sunday Night Special (19:30–22:00): R95 entry with free skate hire, making it a budget-friendly option for evening skaters.
Cheap Skate Card: R855 for 10 entries (equivalent to R85.50 per session). This card is ideal for frequent visitors looking to save.
Cheap Skate and Hire Card: R1,150 for 10 entries including skate hire (equivalent to R115 per session). Perfect for regular skaters without their own skates.
Ice Penguins (for Kids Learning to Skate): R75 per session, non-refundable. These aids help young beginners stay balanced.
Socks Purchase: R25 at the rink’s kiosk, a handy option if you forget suitable socks,Unsuitable socks can cause blisters and discomfort, so it’s worth investing in a good pair.

Note: Prices are based on 2023 data and may vary. Contact the rink at (011) 794-8706 or check theicerink.co.za for confirmation. Discounts may apply for groups, corporate events, or special promotions like foam parties or Black Friday deals (e.g., R50 entry in past events).

Session Times and Availability

The Northgate Ice Rink operates daily, except on certain public holidays, with multiple sessions to suit different schedules. Standard hours are:

Day Sessions: 09:30–11:30, 12:00–14:00, 14:30–16:30, 17:00–19:00
Evening Session: 19:30–22:00
Holiday Hours: On Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, only daytime sessions (09:30, 12:00, 14:30) are available.

Sessions can get busy, especially on weekends, public holidays, or during school breaks. Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended, as queues can form, and the rink’s credit card machine has been reported as slow or occasionally unreliable. Booking online via the rink’s website ensures your spot, particularly for popular sessions or events like foam parties.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Beyond entry and skate hire, consider these potential expenses:

Food and Drinks: A kiosk sells snacks like sweets, chocolates, and cold drinks. Nearby restaurants and fast-food outlets in Northgate Shopping Centre, including Fontana Bakery, cater to larger appetites.
Lockers: Secure lockers are not included in the entry fee, which some visitors note as a drawback. Bring a small bag for valuables.
Parking: Free parking is available at Northgate Shopping Centre with reliable car guards.
Lessons: Skating lessons are available through the Northgate Skating Academy, held on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Contact Glenda Slabbert at (011) 794-8706 or [email protected] for pricing and availability.

Why Choose Northgate Ice Rink?

The Northgate Ice Rink stands out for its accessibility, variety of activities, and vibrant atmosphere. Here’s why it’s a top choice for Johannesburg locals and visitors:

Year-Round Fun: Unlike seasonal outdoor rinks, Northgate’s indoor arena operates in summer and winter, making it a reliable outing regardless of weather.
Family-Friendly: With ice penguins for kids, group rates, and free entry for non-skating parents, it’s ideal for families.
Social and Active: Ice skating is a great way to stay fit, socialize, or even plan a unique date. The rink’s lively music and occasional foam parties add to the fun.
Versatile Events: From birthday parties to corporate functions, broomball, figure skating, and ice hockey, the rink caters to diverse interests.

However, some reviews mention challenges, such as crowded sessions post-payday, inexperienced skaters causing minor collisions, or occasional maintenance issues with the ice surface. To avoid these, opt for weekday sessions or early arrivals.

Tips for a Great Ice Skating Experience

To maximize your visit to Northgate Ice Rink, follow these practical tips:

Dress Appropriately: Wear long socks, comfortable pants or leggings, and a light jacket or sweater. Gloves or mittens protect hands during falls, and a helmet is recommended for kids or beginners.
Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and secure skates in your size by arriving 30 minutes before your session.
Book Lessons for Beginners: The skating academy helps new skaters build confidence. Group lessons are affordable and fun.
Check for Promotions: Follow the rink’s Facebook page or website for deals like Black Friday discounts or foam party events.
Bring Cash: Some reviews note issues with the card machine, so have cash on hand for entry, snacks, or skate hire.
Stay Safe: Watch for faster skaters, especially if skating with young kids. Stick to the rink’s edges if you’re a beginner.
Plan Your Day: Combine skating with shopping or dining at Northgate Mall for a full day out.

Learn to Skate: Programs and Academies

For those looking to improve their skills, the Northgate Skating Academy offers structured lessons for all ages. Held on weekends, these programs cover basics like balance and gliding to advanced techniques like spins and jumps. The academy is led by professional instructors, ensuring a supportive learning environment.

Cost: Varies by program; contact the rink for details.
Booking: Email [email protected] or call (011) 794-8706 to reserve a spot.
Benefits: Lessons boost confidence, reduce fall risks, and open doors to figure skating or speed skating clubs.

The rink also hosts the Northgate Speed Skating Club, typically on Friday evenings (17:30–19:00), though schedules may shift for private events. This club is perfect for thrill-seekers interested in competitive skating.

Special Events and Parties

The Northgate Ice Rink is a popular venue for unique events, making it a great choice for celebrations or team-building:

Birthday Parties: Packages include rink access, skate hire, and optional catering. Book early, as slots fill up during holidays.
Corporate Functions: The rink can be hired for private events, with activities like broomball (a no-skate game on ice) for non-skaters.
Foam Parties: These themed sessions, often held during school holidays, feature foam machines for a slippery, fun twist. Past events charged R80 entry and R35 skate hire.
Speed Skating Events: The rink occasionally hosts record-breaking attempts, like the 2021 Guinness World Record effort by the Extreme Ice Fliers.

For event bookings, contact the rink directly or fill out the form on theicerink.co.za.

What Visitors Say About Northgate Ice Rink

Reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor and Facebook highlight the rink’s strengths and areas for improvement:

Positives:
- “An excellent experience, worth the visit every single time and never disappoints.”
- “Great for children and adults, can skate for hours. Perfect for a date.”
- “Staff are helpful and friendly, good value for money.”
Critiques:
- “Avoid weekends after payday; it’s crowded, and experienced skaters can scare kids.”
- “The ice surface needs better maintenance in some areas.”
- “Credit card machine is slow or broken at times.”

Overall, the rink earns praise for its fun vibe, affordability, and family appeal, though planning around peak times improves the experience.

Comparing Northgate to Other Johannesburg Ice Rinks

Johannesburg has limited ice rinks, making Northgate a standout. Here’s how it compares to alternatives like Festival Mall Ice Rink and The Grove Ice Rink:

Northgate Ice Rink:
- Pros: Central location, multiple sessions, affordable rates, and diverse events. No glass barriers, so not ideal for competitive ice hockey.
- Cons: Can get crowded; occasional maintenance or payment issues.
Festival Mall Ice Rink:
- Smaller rink, similar pricing (around R90–R100 entry). Fewer events but less crowded.
- Better for beginners due to a quieter atmosphere.
The Grove Ice Rink:
- Located in Pretoria, slightly further for Johannesburg residents. Comparable pricing and programs but smaller facility.

Northgate’s size, event variety, and mall integration make it the go-to for a lively, all-in-one experience.

Planning Your Visit

To ensure a smooth trip, follow these steps:

Check Session Times: Visit theicerink.co.za or call (011) 794-8706 to confirm hours and availability.
Book Online: Secure your spot, especially for lessons or events.
Bring Essentials: Cash, socks, gloves, and a light jacket. Own skates save on hire costs.
Arrive Early: Account for queues and skate fitting.
Explore the Mall: Pair skating with dining or shopping at Northgate Shopping Centre.

Conclusion

The Northgate Ice Rink offers an affordable, fun, and fitness-focused activity for all ages in Johannesburg. With entry prices starting at R95, skate hire at R35, and special deals like the Sunday night free skate hire, it’s a budget-friendly outing. Whether you’re learning to skate, hosting a party, or just enjoying a day out, the rink delivers a memorable experience. Plan ahead, book early, and follow our tips to make the most of your visit. Lace up and glide into the fun at Northgate Ice Rink—your next adventure awaits!