Strap on your skis for an adventure in QT
Black runs, Olympic-standard superpipes. Burton Stash Parks. Views everywhere you look. Skiing in Queenstown is special.
Queenstown (QT to the locals) is the adrenaline-fuelled capital of adventure in NZ. Let’s take to the slopes with our ultimate guide to Queenstown skiing. Take a trip on the wild side in QT.
Skiing in Queenstown
Enjoy the run of your life
The ski fields in Queenstown and Wanaka host over 1 million visitors each ski season all bound by one thing. A thirst for adventure. Across peaks including Coronet, The Remarkables, and Cardrona you’ll find black runs galore, superpipes and night skiing. Plus, you might even find untouched powder and uncrowded slopes. And that’s just up the mountain. QT has plenty more opportunities to let your hair down – there’s the world-famous Nevis Bungy at 134m high, jetboating, white water rafting and more. You’ll find nightlife that doesn’t stop too. And no visit to Queenstown is ever complete without a world famous Ferg Berger.
Queenstown Skiing Spots
When you’re in Queenstown for some action on the slopes, these are the spots to check out whether you’re a pro, beginner or somewhere in between.
Coronet Peak
Home of the good times
20 minutes from airport
You’ll hear Coronet Peak called “The Home of Good Times” and it never disappoints. Just 20-minutes from Queenstown Airport, the Coronet Peak ski area packs in a huge variety of runs to suit all skiing and boarding abilities. There are great lift facilities. Plus, you can even ski into the night here too – always a unique and fun option.
The Remarkables
Just a little remarkable
45 minutes from airport
The clue is in the name, this place truly is remarkable. You’ll find seven terrain parks, including a Burton Stash Park (one of only six in the world), and a legendary free-ride (off-piste) zone. It’s also family-friendly with a variety of runs and a magic carpet for beginners. The Remarkables are just a 45-minute drive from the airport.
Cardrona Alpine Resort
Good for all abilities
58km from airport
Halfway between Queenstown and Wanaka and 58km from the airport, Cardrona boasts extensive terrain that’s suitable for all abilities. It also has a “chondola” which is a combined lift of gondola cabins and chairs which is ideal for beginners. More experienced riders will want to check out the Southern Hemisphere’s only Olympic-standard superpipe – head here in August to see the pros during the Winter Games.
Treble Cone
Largest ski area in the South Island
90km from airport
Treble Cone is the largest ski area in the South Island, boasting the highest number of hectares and the most black runs. You’ll find uncrowded slopes and stunning views – some of the most spectacular in NZ (and that’s saying something). It’s a 90km journey from the airport.
Soho Basin
Untouched powder
37km from airport
This private ski field just 37km from the airport offers an unrivalled skiing experience. By capping the numbers, it means you’ll find plenty of untouched powder away from other skiers and boarders. It’s the stuff of dreams.
Snow Farm
Cross-country heaven
55km from airport
Close to Wanaka and 55km from the airport, Snow Farm is New Zealand’s only cross-country ski area. There’s 50km of cross-country skiing, skate skiing and snowshoeing. There’s also a Snow Fun Zone, where you can hire a tube of just play in the snow with the kids.
Invincible Snowfields
Out on your own
75km from airport
The Invincible Snowfields is a unique experience in the New Zealand snow scene. Hosting just six guests at a time, you’ll stay for three nights in an Alpine Hut with your own private ski field and access to the backcountry for four days. With more than 900 hectares, it’s the most uncrowded and unique skiing experience you’ll find in NZ.
Alta Ski Area
Best for beginners
65km from airport
If you’ve got beginner skiers in your group, head to Alta Ski Area in Wanaka – just 65km from the airport. It’s a small ski field where first-timers can get to grips the basics away from some of the busier areas in QT and Wanaka.
Insider tip:
The Queenstown ski season runs from mid-June to mid-September. The best time for snow (but also peak time on the slopes) is July and August. If you want to party, hit Queenstown in late July for Winterfest. The snow can be less predictable, but the good times away from the slopes are guaranteed.
Skiing in the South Island
Aside from Queenstown and Wanaka, there are plenty of other spots in the South Island to strap on your skis and hit some runs.
Roundhill Ski Area:
This family-friendly ski field near Lake Tekapo (227km from the airport) is ready-made for beginners. Plus, you don’t want to miss those views over the lake.
Mount Dobson Ski Area:
If the busy slopes of QT get a little too much, make your way to Mount Dobson for wide, uncrowded runs and reliable snow conditions. It’s 270km from the airport.
Ohau Snow Fields:
This is a real hidden gem with plenty of off-piste opportunities. It’s near Lake Ohau and 275km from the airport.
Mount Hutt:
As well as its spectacular scenery, Mount Hutt (380km from the airport) has a good range of runs and a large learning area that’s perfect for beginners.
Top tips:
For more adrenaline fuelled action hit up the Nevis Bungy.
Hire skis and equipment to cut down on luggage costs.
Book your accommodation early as QT gets booked up quickly.
Queenstown Airport
Luckily Queenstown has its own airport a few minutes on the bus outside town. You’ll see the peaks as you come into land, with the landing strip seemingly impossibly close to the mountains.
Air New Zealand
Virgin Australia
Jetstar
Skiing in Queenstown is one of a kind and there’s so many options for fun on the slopes – you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience!
Thinking of travelling to Queenstown? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car hire deals for your next trip.
