Skiing in New Zealand
Home to stunning mountains and powdery snow, hit the slopes in New Zealand. Let us take you there and discover the top places to ski and snowboard.
South Island
Coronet Peak
Spectacular rollercoaster terrain makes Coronet Peak one of New Zealand's most exciting ski destinations. It's home to Night Ski, 27 runs and an impressive ski lift. Plus, the views across Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range are astounding. Coronet Peak also has some lovely on-site accommodation.
- Twenty-minute drive from Queenstown
- Average snowfall: 1.56m
- Average Temperature: -6°C
The Remarkables
There is so much to love about The Remarkables. Just like the name, these mountains and the resort sitting amongst them are truly remarkable. The mountain range offers terrain that suits first-time to seasoned skiers and snowboarders. Ideal for beginners due to its wide and friendly ranges. If you’re willing to hike, there are some harder runs around the mountain ranges. We suggest renting a car and staying in Queenstown just a short 40-minute drive away.
- Forty-minute drive from Queenstown
- Average snowfall: 1.69m
- Average temperature: -9°C
Craigieburn Valley
One for the pros, Craigieburn Valley has the highest proportion of black runs in New Zealand. If your an advanced or expert skier or boarder, The Big One at Craigieburn is your nirvana. For those of you who can’t work out how to turn or stop on skis, there are some pretty epic hikes around the mountain and very affordable drinks available at some of the guest lodges. The resort boasts long runs of untouched powdery snow, and secluded, cosy accommodation.
- Ninety-minute drive from Christchurch
- Average snowfall: 61cm
- Average temperature: -3°C
Cardrona
A favourite with locals and tourists alike, Cardrona has a little something for everyone. Terrain for all levels from novice to expert, amazing views and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, it’s easy to see why this resort is so popular. Located on the South Island, New Zealand's favourite ski area sits conveniently between Queenstown and Wanaka, (ideal if you’ve rented a car). Not into skiing or snowboarding? Take a gondola ride to the top of the mountain, have champagne at the Vista Bar or give snow tubing a go.
- Ninety-minute drive from Queenstown
- Average snowfall: 83cm
- Average temperature: -2°C
Mount Hutt
The highest mountain on the South Island, Mount Hutt has snow coverage all winter. And because of this, the resort has the longest ski season in all New Zealand. Mount Hutt has wide-open terrain with leg-burning runs and spectacular views over the Canterbury Plains. Ideal for young families, as kiddies under the age of 7 years old ski free. Most people choose to stay in nearby Methven, which offers affordable accommodation.
- Two-hour drive from Christchurch
- Average snowfall: 1.18m
- Average temperature: 2°C
Treble Cone
With some of the best views of Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring, Treble Cone is truly epic, boasting the longest vertical rise in Queenstown Southern Lakes District. The terrain is perfect for intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders. When you're not hitting the slopes, hire a car and drive out to Wanaka where you’ll find warm cafes, places to shop, and most importantly, restaurants offering some of New Zealand’s finest wine.
- Ninety-minute drive from Queenstown
- Average snowfall: 2.36m
- Average temperature: 4°C
North Island
Whakapapa
Whakapapa is epic. Boasting New Zealand's premier beginner trails, Happy Valley along with many intermediate and advanced trails. Located on New Zealand’s North Island, Whakapapa is ideal for families and also home to New Zealand's longest gondola, Sky Waka. Accommodation is easy, with a few lodges available on-site and a wider selection just ten minutes away in Ohakune.
- Four to five-hour drive from Wellington and Auckland
- Average snowfall: 2.97m
- Average temperature: -4°C