Ski Guide

Ski ya on the Slopes, and Say Hi to Ski Fields in New Zealand!

Queenstown

The Remarkables (1,943m)

• Terrain: 30% beginner, 40% intermediate, 30% advanced.
• 45 mins from Queenstown. Sunny slopes, epic views, and fun terrain parks. Great for both freestyle and freeride.
• Facilities: Cafés, rental shops, ski school, and equipment repair services.

Coronet Peak (1,649m)

• Terrain: 25% beginner, 45% intermediate, 30% advanced.
• Just 20 mins from town. Famous for night skiing and diverse runs for all levels.
• Facilities: On-site dining, rental services, ski school, and childcare facilities.

Cardrona Alpine Resort (1862m)

• Terrain: 15% beginner, 40% intermediate, 45% advanced.
• 1 hr from Queenstown. Family friendly, with wide runs, terrain parks, and reliable snow.
• Facilities: Multiple dining options, rental shops, ski school, and a dedicated children’s area.

Wanaka

Treble Cone (2,078m)

• Terrain: 15% beginner, 45% intermediate, 40% advanced.
• 30 mins from Wanaka. Steep, scenic, and ideal for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
• Facilities: On-mountain café, rental services, and ski school.

Snow Farm (1,600m)

• Terrain: Cross-country skiing and snowboarding. Cross-country heaven! Peaceful trails with unique alpine views.
• Facilities: Café, rental shop, and equipment repair.

Christchurch

Porters Ski Area (1,700m)

• Terrain: 30% beginner, 40% intermediate, 30% advanced.
• 1.5 hours from Christchurch. Known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse terrain. Ideal for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
• Facilities: Rental shop, café, and ski school.

Mt. Hutt (2,086m)

• Terrain: 25% beginner, 40% intermediate, 35% advanced. One of NZ’s highest resorts, known for long runs, panoramic views, and great snow.
• Facilities: Multiple dining options, rental services, ski school, and childcare.

Mt Ruapehu Area

Whakapapa (2,302m)

• Terrain: 25% beginner, 40% intermediate, 35% advanced.
• 35 mins from National Park Village. NZ’s largest ski field, with something for everyone at any level.
• Facilities: Several dining options, rental shops, ski school, and accommodation nearby.

Turoa (2,360m)

• Terrain: 20% beginner, 45% intermediate, 35% advanced.
• 1 hr from National Park Village. Long runs, big verticals, and excellent snow for advanced riders.
• Facilities: Cafés, rental services, ski school, and equipment repair.

Manganui

• Location: Near the town of Manganui, less known but offers a unique and less crowded skiing experience.
• Terrain: Varies from beginner to advanced, with more focus on intermediate slopes.
• Facilities: Basic amenities including a café and rental services.

General Ski Tips

The ski season typically runs from June to October, with the best snow conditions usually found from July to September. 

• Gear: If you don’t have your own equipment, most ski fields offer rental services for skis, snowboards, boots, and poles.
• Clothing: Dress in layers and ensure you have waterproof and windproof outerwear. Don't forget gloves, a helmet, and goggles!
• Accommodation: There are various accommodation choices near ski fields, ranging from hotels and lodges to holiday parks and backpackers.
• Avalanche Awareness: Be aware of avalanche risks, especially if venturing off-site.
• Respect the Mountain: Follow ski field rules, respect other skiers and snowboarders, and ensure you are familiar with trail markings and conditions.