With such a variable climate, New Zealand has a variety of ski fields in both the North and South Islands, each with slightly different seasons. The winners are skiers and snowboarders, who get to start early in the South Island and ski later in the North. Everything, of course, depends on snowfall!
o The South Island season is from early June to early October.
o The North Island season starts at the end of June until mid-November
With 24 ski slopes, seventeen of which are commercial, there are plenty of options. New Zealand ski fields tend to be open with no trees. There are slopes suitable for everyone, from children, beginners and intermediate, to the highest level skiers.
Heliskiing is another exciting adrenaline-pumping option for experienced skiers. Imagine being dropped off in a helicopter in the mountains, without a soul around, and then flying over untouched slopes to your home base!
Many international skiers and snowboarders come here during the winter to continue their training. Wanaka, in the lower part of the South Island, has four good courses: Cardrona, Treble Cone, Snow Farm, which specializes in cross-country skiing, and Snow Park, the choice of teenagers and youngsters.
Cardrona is a great family snow course for beginners, intermediates and lots of family fun in the snow, if you don’t want to ski try a tobbogan. They will have a great time! Due to the protected nature of Cardrona, only five to seven days are lost per season, which is why it is also a reliable destination for snow holidays.
Queenstown has two main snowfields. The very popular and luxurious Coronet Peak, which also offers entertainment and a lively nightlife with outdoor music. The other option is The Remarkables, which is a challenging ski for the experienced. The picturesque landscape of this area will keep you captivated as you hit the slopes.
With around seven snow courses in Canterbury, snowboarders and skiers are spoiled for choice. Mt Hutt in Canterbury is also particularly popular with international skiers and competent amateurs.
The MacKenzie Basin has several snow courses, many of them club run. Ohau, near Twizel, has been especially geared towards snowboarders.
Mt Ruapehu in the Central North Island has two main ski fields: Whakapapa on the Chateau side and Turoa near Ohakune on the other.
Often the snow or weather will be better on one side, giving skiers and snowboarders options. Both are good for families and beginners.
Mt Taranaki also has good ski fields, but is a bit further off the beaten path for tourists.
Access to some ski fields sometimes means that the roads are closed, because of what you want: snow! The chains are essential when driving any of them. The desert road that takes you to Mount Ruapehu is closed several times a year.
Whakapapa is very popular with Northern Islanders and the facilities are excellent. There are ski lifts at different levels, and rentals of all snow equipment for those who just want a fun day on the slopes at Top ‘o the Bruce.
So the options for anyone interested in skiing or snowboarding are many. You can rent equipment for a day or a week! There are many all-inclusive package deals. Since all areas also offer an interesting selection of other vacation activities and entertainment for travelers, you’ll probably want to make your choice with this in mind.
Vineyards, adventure activities, excellent shopping and a magical winter atmosphere are found in Queenstown and Wanaka. Taupo, an hour’s drive away, will also provide more fun for those visiting Mount Ruapehu, including hot pools, golf and lakeside activities.