Table Of Contents
1. Cardrona
Known for
Best atmosphere for families in a convenient location
Highlights
All-rounder resort with a good mix of terrain
Modern infrastructure
Easy access to Queenstown
Sometimes crowded and potentially tricky drive
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: Jun 15 2024
- Closing Date: Oct 13 2024* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Queenstown Airport - 33 miles (1 hour drive)
Why Ski Taos Ski Valley
Cardrona is well known for its epic panoramic views and decent amount of acreage spread across three bowls. With wide open beginner trails, Cardrona is the only resort in New Zealand with green runs along the top of the mountain. While it doesn’t get as much snow as other places, what does fall is protected by a south-facing aspect which keeps the snow last for longer. Being located halfway between Queenstown and Wanaka, crowds are unavoidable, however, even if you’re there on a busy day you’ll find the atmosphere is generally friendly and relaxed – something “skiwi” culture has definitely perfected!
2. Treble Cone
Known for
Natural free-ride terrain, with plentiful snow, and inspiring views
Highlights
Largest ski area on the South Island
Fantastic runs for intermediates and experts
New Zealand’s highest annual snowfall
Very limited beginner terrain and relatively expensive lift tickets
23/24 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: Jul 04 2023
- Closing Date: Oct 01 2023* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Queenstown Airport - 53 miles (1.5 hour drive)
Wanaka Airport - 21 miles (30 minute drive)
Why Ski Treble Cone
Treble Cone generally sees the most snow of any resort in New Zealand. With 45% of its trails rated for intermediates and another 45% for advanced skiers, there's plenty of choice for everyone. While beginners terrain is somewhat limited, the good news is that Treble Cone provides free access to the Magic Carpet and discounted passes to the Platter Lift. While you can stay at Queenstown, Treble Cone is conveniently located near Wanaka which has a great selection of lodging, restaurants, shopping, and services and would make a great addition to any South Island ski itinerary.
3. Remarkables
Known for
A family-friendly experience amongst some of New Zealand’s most photographed mountains
Highlights
Great place to learn to ski
Closest ski resort to Queenstown
Some of the best terrain parks in the country
Expensive lift tickets and small ski area
23/24 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: Jun 17 2023
- Closing Date: Oct 08 2023* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Queenstown Airport - 11 miles (30 minute drive)
Why Ski Ski Santa Fe
At just under 550 acres, The Remarkables might have a limited range of terrain but the views are certainly big. With three magic carpets at the base and great progressive trails, The Remarkables is an excellent choice for families with beginners who need to get their skis under them. At the same time, there are plenty of expert runs for skiers who are willing to hike. So, there ought to be enough to keep just about all the skiers in your crew happy. The only downside is that there is no ski-in/ ski-out accomodation so you’ll have to stay in Queenstown which is just 30 minutes away.
4. Coronet Peak
Known for
Panoramic views and the most popular on South Island
Highlights
Easy to get to from Queenstown
Particularly great for intermediate skiers and riders
Efficient lift system
Inconsistent natural snowfall
23/24 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: Jun 16 2023
- Closing Date: Sep 24 2023* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Queenstown Airport - 15 miles (30 minute drive)
Why Ski Coronet Peak
The views from Coronet Peak across Lake Wakatipu are incredible, and intermediates will have a blast from all the terrain to choose from. Natural snowfall here is somewhat inconsistent, but it’s augmented by the most extensive snowmaking system in the country. And as a nice bonus, on Friday and Saturday, there’s night skiing under the lights! What's so special about Coronet Peak is that there are on-mountain accomodation options which is rare for New Zealand. Otherwise, Queenstown is a prime leisure destination itself, and offers plenty of other choices for sleeping, eating, and shopping!