Remarkable mountains, endless wilderness, stunning lakes, spectacular landscapes, and world-class road trips; the list of what New Zealand offers could go on and on.
Let’s face it, we already know that New Zealand is an awe-inspiring destination; take this as your official invite to learn why it deserves a spot on your bucket list come winter!
With the snow season kicking off around June, unique apres-ski culture and an abundance of resorts with runs suitable for every ability, New Zealand is one of the best places in the world to hit the slopes.
As the Trans-Tasman bubble comes into place, it’s the perfect time to dust off the passport post-pandemic and book your New Zealand ski holiday!
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Top Destinations for Your New Zealand Ski Trip
There are just under 40 ski resorts spread across the North and the South Island which can make narrowing down the top destinations for your New Zealand ski holiday a little difficult.
Worry no more, with the help of our Local Designers, we’ve gathered a list of the best resorts to hit this snow season, New Zealand-style!
Cardrona
Best for: Families and those looking for easy access
Close to: Queenstown and Wanaka
Cardona sits in the heart of the Southern Alps, less than an hour’s drive from Queenstown, New Zealand’s capital of adventure. This ski resort is known as a local favourite for its perfect balance of everything: terrain variety, stunning views and great infrastructure. Sitting approximately halfway between Queenstown and Wanaka, Cardona is easily accessed by shuttle services from both destinations or by car.
What’s more, Cardrona pips New Zealand’s other ski resorts to top of the list for its variety of runs, accommodating anyone from beginners stepping onto the slopes for the first time to seasoned skiers and ex-athletes!
Opening in early June and extending through to the third week of October, Cardrona is New Zealand’s ultimate winter playground.
Top New Zealand Ski Holidays to Cardrona;
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Treble Cone
Best for: Powder snow and intermediate to expert skiiers
Close to: Wanaka and Queenstown
Instagrammers at the ready, Treble Cone boasts unrivalled views of Lake Wanaka, Mount Aspiring and the Southern Alps. As South Island’s largest ski area, Treble Cone is famous for its uncrowded runs, legendary off-piste terrace and convenient location between Wanaka and Queenstown.
Home to New Zealand’s highest annual snowfall, Treble Cone ski field is favoured amongst intermediate and expert skiers and snowboarders with over 90% of runs dedicated to this ability. Nevertheless, novices and beginners are well accommodated for with a learner area next to the base lodge.
No matter what ability you are, Treble Cone promises an unforgettable New Zealand ski holiday.
The Remarkables
Best for: Families and keen photographers
Close to: Queenstown (closest resort to the city)
Just a half an hour drive from New Zealand’s hub of adventure, Queenstown, The Remarkables Ski Area is one of the best places to learn to ski in the country. When compared to the likes of Treble Cone, The Remarkables is rather a small ski area but its impeccable views and assorted runs make up for its size.
A number one choice for families, The Remarkables boasts a huge learner’s area as well as seven different parks to choose from. The terrain suits everyone from beginners to seasoned snow-lovers. Whether you’re just here for the views, slipping into skis for the first time or planning your own downhill adventure, you’ll find everything you could need and more here.
Coronet Peak
Best for: On-mountain accommodation and blue runs
Close to: Queenstown
Basing yourself in Queenstown on your New Zealand ski holiday is a great choice; The Remarkables and Coronet Peak are two great ski fields just a short drive away from the city.
With spectacular roller-coaster terrain and blue runs for days, Coronet Peak suits intermediate skiers down to the ground with plentiful twists and turns to perfect their skills. What’s better is that Coronet Peak is the original home of ‘Night Ski’: three nights a week, the mountains are lit up for an epic evening of night skiing and parties that continue ‘til dawn.
Families with young children and beginners will gain confidence in no time at Coronet Peak with an abundance of group and private lessons offered on numerous slopes.
Mount Hutt
Best for: Superb snow and families with young children (kids under 10 ski for free)
Close to: Christchurch (1.5-hour drive away)
Sitting high on the South Island, Mount Hutt is known for its incredibly long ski season which takes you right into the Southern Hemisphere’s spring. Equally as advantageous, the high altitude means great snow conditions and regular fresh powder throughout the season.
Voted New Zealand’s best ski resort four years running, Mount Hutt boasts a great variety of terrain with suitable space for beginners, plentiful wide groomers for intermediates and of course, a great collection of off-piste black runs for the adrenaline junkies among us.
With kids under ten skiing for free, Mount Hutt is a no brainer for families with young ones. Plus, when the little legs get tired, there’s numerous outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities to take advantage of around Canterbury.
Ready to Book your New Zealand Ski Holiday?
Take advantage of the Trans-Tasman bubble and hit the slopes for a memorable winter holiday this year!
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway, a solid ski holiday or you want to mix in some New Zealand touring with a few days on the slopes, our Local Designers can design, plan and book your perfect trip.
Ready and waiting to do what they do best, our Local Designers in New Zealand can tailor your trip to suit your budget, travel style and needs.
Did Someone Say Free Cancellation?
At Designer Journeys, we understand that travelling post-pandemic can seem a little daunting. That’s why a plethora of our ski trips are covered by our Free Cancellation* guarantee so that you can book your NZ ski trip with confidence!
Browse our range of New Zealand Free Cancellation* trips here and get chatting to one of our Local Designers today.
*Click here for terms and conditions.
