New Zealand Ski Holiday - Tips for the Ultimate Winter Getaway

Dreaming of a New Zealand ski holiday? You’re not alone. Every winter, snow lovers from around the world make tracks for the Southern Alps. With stunning alpine scenery, world-class ski resorts, and a season that runs from June to October, Queenstown and Wānaka are the beating heart of skiing in New Zealand. 

But how do you plan the perfect winter getaway?

From finding the best ski resorts in New Zealand to figuring out accommodation and lift pass deals, this guide will help you make the most of your New Zealand snow holiday—whether you’re a seasoned skier or hitting the slopes for the first time.

Picking Your Playground: The Best Ski Resorts in New Zealand’s South Island 

Queenstown and Wānaka are home to four iconic ski fields, each with their own personality. Whether you're all about mellow cruisers, hot laps, or terrain that bites back, there’s something for every mountain preference. 

Cardrona Alpine Resort

New Zealand’s biggest ski resort, Cardrona dishes up 615 hectares of varied terrain, including beginner zones, world-class terrain parks, and a 150ha expansion into Soho Basin, new for winter 2025. It’s the place to build confidence, cruise on groomers, and have a go (or just watch others nail it). It’s super popular with families, learners, and intermediates, but Soho Basin adds some spice for those chasing more. 

Treble Cone

Got legs of steel and a taste for adventure? Welcome to TC. Known as the top pick for experienced skiers, it has the South Island’s biggest vertical, the longest groomer in the game, and big mountain terrain. It also offers great intermediate trails, giving confident riders a chance to explore more challenging lines while soaking up some of the best alpine views in the country.

Coronet Peak

Features well-maintained groomers and a lively on-mountain atmosphere. It’s a good fit for intermediate skiers who enjoy fast-paced laps and social skiing, with the added option of night skiing during peak season. 

The Remarkables

Offers a mix of open bowls, beginner-friendly zones, and dedicated park features. It’s a good choice for families, intermediate skiers, and freestyle riders looking for a laid-back day with a variety of terrain to explore. 

Where to Stay: On-Mountain vs. Town Accommodation 

Cardrona Apartments – Wake Up on the Slopes 

The only ski resort accommodation option across all New Zealand ski resorts in the Queenstown–Wānaka region. Fully self-contained, with full kitchens and alpine views for days. No traffic. No parking. Just roll out of bed and into the snow.

Queenstown Ski Accommodation 

If après is your vibe, Queenstown has you covered. Hotels, hostels, and everything in between—plus easy access to Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. 

Wānaka Ski Accommodation 

Prefer a slower pace? Wānaka's your spot. Lakeside lodges, cosy motels, and scenic holiday homes sit closer to Cardrona and Treble Cone—ideal for a relaxed New Zealand ski holiday. 

Ski Packages and deals for First-Timers

Most New Zealand ski resorts offer dedicated beginner zones and learner-specific lift passes - so you’re never thrown in the deep end (unless you want to be). Here are a few top picks to get you sliding confidently from day one: 

Cardrona First Timer Package

Your golden ticket to the slopes: rentals, a learners’ lift pass, one ride to the top of the mountain in a gondola cabin, and a full-day group lesson. Add Cardrona’s mellow beginner zones and on-mountain childcare, and it’s basically stress-free snow time, ideal for families and newcomers.

Treble Cone First Timer Package 

Think TC is just for experts? Think again. This package includes rentals, a beginner lift pass, and a full-day lesson. It's the best deal on offer, with the best views to match. 

The Remarkables Starter Pack

Close to Queenstown, with wide learner trails and a dedicated beginner area. Includes rentals, beginner lift access, and group lessons. 

More experienced? Look for lesson upgrades, multi-day rental combos, or private coaching to level up. There are ski packages New Zealand-wide to suit every skill level. 

Budgeting for Your New Zealand Ski Holiday 

Lift Passes & Deals

The early bird doesn’t just get the worm - they get the best price on the mountain. Booking your passes early is the easiest way to save big on your New Zealand ski holiday - whether you're locking in a few days or planning to lap all winter long.

For example, grab an Earlybird Multi Day Pass from Cardrona and you can ski or ride from just $99 a day. That’s the best per-day rate going without needing to commit to a full season. Just keep in mind there’s a blackout window from June 30 – July 11 (Sale ends 30^th April 2025). Ski from just $120 per day with our standard Multi-Day Passes (no blackout periods). 

Or, if you’re keen to go full-send all winter, the Unlimited Season Pass is your golden ticket. No blackout dates, access to Cardrona and Treble Cone, and a heap of perks—like discounts on local adventures with RealNZ. 

Rentals 

Rental gear is available both on the mountain and in town, making it easy to find a setup that suits you. Booking directly through the ski fields is often the best value, as you can access rental discounts when bundled with your lift pass. Even when you book direct, you can collect your gear in town the day before, so you’re ready to head straight up the mountain in the morning. It’s a great way to save time and beat the rush—especially during busy periods.

Transport

Enjoy a stress-free and comfortable journey to the slopes with daily bus options, designed to make your trip as smooth as possible. Regular daily buses operate with multiple pick-up points across both towns, offering a reliable and efficient way to reach the mountain. 

If you decide to self-drive, make sure you check the road report before heading up the mountain. Winter conditions can change fast - don’t be that person who gets caught out! Snow chains are often required, so make sure you carry chains every time you drive up. Not sure how to fit them? Watch our quick guide here. 

Extras to Consider 

Food & Drinks: From quick bites and coffee to relaxed sit-down meals, you’ll find a variety of spots to refuel or toast a good day on the slopes. At Cardrona, Vista Bar is a favourite for ski-in drinks with panoramic views, while The Remarkables offers a unique alpine experience at its Ice Bar, perched mid-mountain. Whether you're grabbing lunch or sharing a round with mates, there's no better way to soak up the mountain atmosphere. 

Lessons: Everyone can benefit from a lesson, whether it’s your first time skiing New Zealand or your hundredth, there’s always something new to learn (or re-learn after a long summer). Group lessons are perfect for beginners and returners. You’ll team up with others at your level and get expert guidance from one of our legendary instructors. It’s a fun, supportive way to build confidence, master the basics, or brush off the cobwebs. For the most flexibility, the best value, and the best way to learn to ski or snowboard, you can’t beat a Private Lesson. 

Insurance: It might not be the most exciting part of planning your New Zealand ski holiday, but trust us—travel insurance is worth it. Surprise storms, lost gear or cancelled flights - it’s your backup plan when the unexpected hits. Better to have it and not need it, than the other way around.

Kids’ Programmes: For families hitting the slopes, Cardrona is the ultimate go-to. It offers on-mountain childcare from as young as 3 months in its fully licensed Nursery, plus Ski Kindy for 2–4 year olds, and dedicated ski and snowboard lessons from age 2+. Older kids can take part in multi-day programmes, perfect for building skills and confidence over several days in a fun, social environment. With purpose-built beginner zones and experienced instructors, it’s an easy, stress-free option for families of all ages.

Coronet Peak also provides support for young children with Skiwiland, a facility offering care and introductory ski experiences and lessons for kids aged 2–5 years. It's a great setup for families with little ones, allowing parents to get out on the slopes while their children are safely looked after and gently introduced to skiing in a playful, supervised environment.

Tips to Maximise Your Time on Snow 

• Book early. Everything. Seriously 

• Dress in layers—NZ weather is a wild card 

• Try avoid peak school holidays if you can and you will be rewarded with quieter slopes 

• Check snow reports at 6am before heading up 

• Stash snacks and water in your jacket. You’ll thank yourself later 

• Stay on-mountain at Cardrona apartments for first lifts and zero stress 

Best Time to Visit Queenstown and Wanaka for a Ski Holiday

New Zealand's ski season runs from mid June to early October, but the best time for beginners depends on what kind of experience you're looking for. Here’s a breakdown: 📅 Mid June to July – A great time to visit as the season gets underway and snow conditions build through July. It’s usually busier during the NZ school holidays (28 June – 13 July 2025), so consider mid-week visits for more space to learn. ⛷️ August to Early September – Typically the most snow and best conditions, with a great balance of soft, fresh snow and bluebird days. ☀️ Late September to October – Softer spring snow and warmer days, making for a fun and relaxed skiing experience (20 September – 5 October is NZ school holidays in 2025). 💡 Pro Tip: Visit mid-week outside weekends and school holidays for fewer people and more time to practice on the slopes!

Your Ultimate New Zealand Ski Holiday Starts Here 

A New Zealand ski holiday offers something for everyone—whether it’s carving beginner-friendly trails at Cardrona, exploring big-mountain terrain at Treble Cone, or soaking up Queenstown’s après-ski scene. 

Families and first-timers will love the convenience of Cardrona apartments, while seasoned skiers can chase powder and vertical metres in August. Plan early, book lift passes in advance, and avoid peak dates where you can for the best experience.