Arguably the adventure capital of the world, it’s no surprise that New Zealand carves up the competition when it comes to presenting some gnarly slopes. With so much packed into the two tiny islands, it can be hard to pick the best skiing in New Zealand. It all depends on what you’re looking to get out of the adventure.
Skiers and snowboarders around the world are gearing up for the New Zealand ski season. New Zealand caters perfectly to the ski and snowboard lifestyle with a variety of mountains and slopes for all different levels. If you’re new to the sport (get some tips for your first day) or live for the mountain, there’s definitely a ski field somewhere in New Zealand that you’ll love.
We’ve created a comprehensive list of the best resorts across the North and South Island to help you in planning your ultimate trip. So read through our guide, bundle up your snow gear, and get ready to hit the road toward your ideal snow destination.
Top Skiing Spots in New Zealand’s North Island
Mt Ruapehu is where the North Islanders hit the slopes. Based in the centre of the North Island, Mt Ruapehu is just over four hours drive from Auckland or Wellington. With two sides and its versatile terrain, Mt Ruapehu has lots to offer skiers and snowboarders.
- Whakapapa sits on the northwestern side of the mountain and is New Zealand’s largest developed ski area. Whakapapa has over 65 tracks and a specialised beginner area. The off-piste skiing here is also superb, especially after a hike up to Crater Lake, which is awesome if you’re up for the challenge.
- Turoa is the highest ski area in New Zealand with the longest vertical run. On the southwestern side, Turoa accommodates to all skier levels with its dry winter snow. The Terrain Park is great for the park riders who want to practice their tricks.
Mt Ruapehu kick off their season on 3rd July 2016.
Top Skiing Spots in New Zealand’s South Island
Canterbury Skiing
The Christchurch and Canterbury region is one of the most diverse in the South Island, featuring everything from towering mountain peaks to picturesque plains that stretch for miles. Check out either of the two major regions and allow yourself to be caught up in the magic of Christchurch and Canterbury.
- Mt Hutt has the longest ski season of the year. The groomed trail network means Mt Hutt is the perfect spot for all ages, expertise levels and preferences. Mt Hutt has two parks and one of these has a halfpipe specifically designed for the more advanced park rider. The Big Mountain is where it’s all happening, and with kids able to wreak havoc for free, it’s likely you’ll never want to leave! Mt Hutt is an hour and a half drive from Christchurch, and has a spectacular view of the Canterbury plains from the top. Opening weekend – 11th June 2016
- Porters is conveniently located, provides fun for the whole family and is a place where life long memories can be made. An easy two-hour drive from Christchurch, adults and kids can be improving their skills (no matter how advanced or beginner they are to start with) in no time! Progressing at Porters is easy to do with trails suitable for all ages and abilities. Opening weekend – 22nd June 2016
Photo Credit: Mt Hutt
Queenstown & Wanaka Skiing
If catching a Kodak moment is just as important as enjoying some adrenalin-pumping skiing action, then the Queenstown and Wanaka region is perfect for you. Surrounded by picturesque Alps, you’ll feel like you’re in a fairy tale while ripping up the freshly dumped snow. There are four amazing ski resorts you can choose to check out in the area:
- Treble Cone’s skiing terrain spreads over two large basins and provides the perfect off-piste ground for the adventurous riders. At Treble Cone there’s a beginners slope that’s absolutely free to muck around on, plus abounding slopes for the more daring. If you’re an intermediate or advanced skier then this is definitely the field for you, with 90% of the tracks designed for the snow fanatics. It’s renowned for its off-piste skiing and is more than likely to capture your heart with the breathtaking views on offer. Opening day – 23rd June 2016
- Cardrona is a paradise for both beginner and intermediate snow lovers. With its wide-open and well-groomed tracks, skiers and snowboarders love heading to Cardrona, less than an hours drive from Queenstown. There’s a pretty sweet set up among three terrain parks for freestyle riders and skiers, with a range of rails, jumps and half pipes. It’s notorious for having some of the most reliable snow conditions in New Zealand, making it one of the best and well-rounded ski regions around. Opening weekend – 10th June 2016
- Coronet Peak has an extensive range of chairlifts, riders can be taken all over the mountain. After mastering the novice areas you can make your way to the steep drops and rolling slopes, which keep the adventurers on their toes. With world-class facilities and the longest opening hours in New Zealand, Coronet Peak is home to a number of iconic snow events. Only 20 minutes from Queenstown, Coronet Peak is unique with weekend night skiing for those adrenalin junkies that want something different. Opening weekend – 11th June 2016
- The Remarkables offer a full spectrum of fun facilities, from gentle beginners’ slopes to steep mountains with summits reaching up to 1943m. It’s the perfect family mountain with 70% of trails designed for beginner and intermediate level riders. Park riders can also choose from three Parklife terrain parks. The Ozone Tubing Park also provides a bit of fun away from the slopes. The Remarkables is only 45 minutes from Queenstown and is set to open on June 21. This great mountain is well-known for its atmosphere, often having live music and activities for the whole family. Opening weekend – 18th June 2016
Mt Cook Skiing
Mt Cook definitely isn’t the top tourist spot for skiing in New Zealand, but that certainly doesn’t take anything away from the magic of the area. It’ll provide you with a bit more of a club field experience of the local slopes, with three main regions ready for you to explore:
- Â The slopes at Mt Dobson are uncrowded, the sun is shining and the perfect slopes are calling your name. Choose to dabble on the beginner slopes or take on the bigger mountains at the serene Mt Dobson, a true treasure of the New Zealand ski fields. Opening weekend – 8th July 2016
- If it’s a family adventure you’re after, Roundhill is a great place to head. Not only will you get to enjoy the brilliant family-friendly facilities and gentle slopes, there are also spectacular views of Mt Cook for you to take some family album photos. Opening weekend – 2nd July 2016
- Ohau provides powder snow at its finest, not to mention more uncrowded slopes for you to get the very best skiing or snowboarding experience. It’s not the most famous of New Zealand’s snowfields, but it’s certainly got something special about it that will enchant you. Opening weekend – 25th June 2016
Keep an eye out for industry demo days at your local mountain. This is an awesome way to try new products before purchasing them. If you’ve got a season pass or are just planning on going to the mountain for a weekend, make sure you’ve got all your snow gear sorted. Why not shred on a few different mountains this season? Also check out the best skiing in Australia, if you’re up for another adventure.
Photo Credit: Wanaka Tourism
AUTHOR
Danielle Conwell
Marketing - Torpedo7
