Skiing in Queenstown & Wānaka - Best NZ Ski Fields & Resorts

The Ultimate Guide to Skiing Queenstown & Wānaka

Queenstown and Wānaka are the heavy hitters of New Zealand skiing—think world-class terrain, breathtaking views, and two epic mountain towns that know how to keep the good times rolling after the lifts stop spinning. Whether you're carving up corduroy, exploring the terrain parks, or chasing powder stashes, there’s a ski field here for every kind of skier and rider. 

But how do you pick the best spot for your next ski mission? Don’t stress—we’ve got the inside scoop on the best Queenstown and Wānaka ski fields, plus tips on when to visit, where to stay, and how to make the most of the NZ ski season.

 Quick Overview: Queenstown & Wānaka’s best ski fields at a glance 

The Lakes District is home to a range of ski fields catering to all ability levels. Whether you're a beginner finding your feet or a seasoned skier seeking a challenge, the region’s diverse terrain has something to offer. The table below provides a snapshot of skiable terrain and terrain mix across the main ski fields in Queenstown and Wānaka—helping you find the mountain that best suits your skill level and on-snow goals. 

*Skiable terrain/ terrain mix estimates are sourced from 2025 media kits.

Base yourself in Queenstown or Wānaka, and you can easily hit multiple mountains in one trip. Whether you want variety, convenience, or a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, there's a perfect ski field for you.

Ski Resorts at a Glance: Queenstown & Wānaka 

Queenstown and Wānaka are home to four unique ski fields, each offering something different depending on your ability, riding style, and mountain preferences. 

Cardrona Alpine Resort is the region’s largest ski area, with 615ha of varied terrain including wide groomers, beginner zones, and world-class terrain parks. This includes a 150ha expansion into Soho Basin, opening for winter 2025. Cardrona is known for its strong focus on progression, making it a favourite for families, intermediates, and freestyle riders looking to develop their skills. 

Treble Cone is the top pick for experienced skiers, with the South Island’s biggest vertical, long runs, 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. 

 When Is the Best Time to Ski in Queenstown & Wānaka? 

The NZ ski season runs from mid June to early October, offering some of the best skiing in Queenstown and Wānaka during this period. Late July and August offer the best snow conditions, as these are the peak winter months. Spring skiing in September and October is a great time to visit, with longer days, softer snow, and fewer crowds. Powder seekers will want to head to Treble Cone after fresh snowfall, while Cardrona’s new expansion ensures plenty of space for everyone, even in peak times.

 How Do I Choose the Best Ski Field for My Skill Level? 

Beginners & Families

Cardrona is the standout choice for beginners and young families. Gentle slopes, conveyor lifts and one of the country’s best ski schools make it a great place to learn. Add in on-mountain childcare and apartment accommodation, and it’s an easy, stress-free experience for parents. The Remarkables also caters well to first-timers, with open, forgiving trails and a friendly base area that helps new skiers settle in quickly. 

Intermediate Skiers

Cardrona offers the widest variety of intermediate runs in the region, from mellow groomers to more dynamic blues that span the full mountain. The recently added 150ha of Soho Basin terrain, opening for winter 2025, creates even more room to explore—perfect for confident intermediates. Coronet Peak is another good choice for intermediates, with consistently groomed slopes and terrain that’s ideal for gaining confidence at speed. 

Advanced & Off-Piste Skiers 

For experienced riders chasing steeper terrain, Treble Cone is the ultimate playground. With long, uninterrupted runs, natural halfpipes, and chutes, it’s the best spot for advanced skiers who love a challenge. On a powder day, Treble Cone delivers some of the best freeride terrain in the country. The Remarkables also has solid inbounds off-piste zones, making it a good alternative when conditions align. 

Freestyle & Park Riders 

If park laps and big air are your thing, Cardrona is the place to be. As the home of world-cup level terrain parks, the most extensive in the Southern Hemisphere, it's the top destination for freestyle progression in New Zealand. The Remarkables also has a strong park scene, with well-maintained features that cater to all skill levels. 

Best for Scenic Views 

Unmatched views over Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps make Treble Cone a standout for scenery—every lift ride feels like a postcard moment. The Remarkables also delivers on the visuals, with alpine ridgelines and sweeping outlooks across Queenstown and Lake Whakatipu. Cardrona adds to the mix with panoramic mountain views and a unique mid-mountain base that's perfect for soaking it all in—especially for non-skiers or spectators keen to enjoy the alpine vibe.

What Should I Know Before Skiing in Queenstown & Wānaka? 

Getting to the Ski Fields 

The easiest and most stress-free way to reach the ski fields is to catch a ski shuttle from Queenstown or Wānaka. Services run daily during the season and take the hassle out of mountain driving and parking. For Cardrona, you also have the option to park at the bottom of the mountain and hop on the free mountain shuttle. 

If you’re planning to drive yourself, make sure you're prepared for alpine conditions. Snow chains must be carried for all mountains, as weather can change quickly and chains may be required at any time. Arrive early during weekends or school holidays to secure a parking spot, or consider shuttle options to make your day easier. 

Lift Pass Hacks 

Looking to save on lift passes? Buying early is the best way to lock in a deal—many ski fields release earlybird and pre-release season passes shortly after the season ends, typically around October and November. These usually offer the biggest discounts of the year, with other deals and multi-day pass offers gradually becoming available closer to winter. 

For example, the Cardrona + Treble Cone Unlimited Season Pass or Earlybird Multi-Day Passes gives access to both mountains on one ticket—ideal for those staying in Wānaka or Queenstown. The NZSki Season Pass covers Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Mt Hutt, offering flexibility across multiple resorts. 

To stay in the loop, it’s a good idea to sign up for email updates from the ski fields—you’ll be the first to know when sales go live and avoid missing out on the best prices. 

Après-Ski & Eats 

On the Mountain  Each mountain has its own take on on-snow dining and après. 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.

Wānaka  With its laid-back charm and stunning lakefront setting, Wānaka is the perfect place to wind down after a day on the slopes. You’ll find everything from casual eateries and cosy pubs to stylish wine bars and lakeview restaurants. The town’s friendly, easygoing atmosphere makes it ideal for relaxed catch-ups over good food and a local brew. 

Queenstown  For a livelier après-ski scene, Queenstown delivers with a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and nightlife. Whether you’re craving a relaxed drink, a standout meal, or a night on the town, there’s something for every vibe and budget. The energy here carries on well after the lifts close, making it a great spot to keep the day going. 

Childcare & Kids’ Facilities 

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. 

Snow Conditions & Where to Ride   

Scoring the best snow in Queenstown and Wānaka comes down to timing and a bit of local know-how. Most mountains update their snow reports by 6am, so checking conditions early is a must. On powder days, Treble Cone is hard to beat—its steep terrain holds fresh stashes well into the afternoon. In more variable weather, Cardrona's mix of terrain and sheltered aspects make it a reliable choice for consistent turns. As spring sets in, The Remarkables tends to soften up early thanks to its north-facing slopes, making it a go-to for cruisy, slushy laps later in the day. 

Alpine conditions can change quickly, so keeping an eye on the forecast is key. From fresh pow to spring corn, knowing where to go—and when—can make all the difference in your day on the mountain.

Where to Stay 

Queenstown and Wānaka both bring something special to the table as ski bases. Queenstown is known for its lively après-ski energy, with no shortage of nightlife, dining, and adventure activities. Wānaka offers a more laid-back vibe, but still delivers when it comes to quality dining, cosy bars, and easy access to world-class wineries—making it a great option for families, couples, and those after a more relaxed pace. Both towns feature a wide range of accommodation, from budget lodges to luxury stays, so there’s something for every style and budget. 

For the ultimate winter getaway, why not stay on the mountain? Cardrona’s alpine apartments offer on-mountain convenience, meaning you can roll out of bed and straight onto the resort. With cozy, self-contained accommodation and unbeatable mountain views, it’s the perfect way to soak up the alpine atmosphere and maximise your time on the snow, but book early - rooms are limited and sell out every season. 

 Beyond Skiing – Best Things to Do in Queenstown & Wānaka This Winter 

Skiing in Queenstown and Wānaka is unbeatable, but there’s plenty to do beyond the slopes.  

If you’re up for an adventure, Fiordland National Park delivers some of the South Island’s most dramatic winter scenery. A Milford Sound day cruise is a must, especially in winter when misty peaks and cascading waterfalls create an unforgettable atmosphere. For an elevated experience, Milford Sound Business Class offers a premium way to explore the fiord—think lounge-style coach travel, reserved seating on board, hosted service, and curated food and drink, all set against the backdrop of one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes. For those craving something even more remote, a Doubtful Sound Day Cruise offers a quieter, more untouched journey, while an overnight cruise lets you sleep among snowcapped peaks, waking to the stillness and beauty of Fiordland at first light.

Après-ski lovers can indulge in local wineries and breweries, sipping world-class pinot noir or craft beer by the fire while soaking up lake and mountain views. Or take a scenic cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw, crossing Lake Whakatipu to Walter Peak for a high-country farm experience with incredible food and even better views. And if you need a break from the snow but still want some fun, Puzzling World in Wānaka serves up mind-bending illusions and a giant maze—perfect for a laugh on a rest day. Whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Queenstown and Wānaka deliver unforgettable winter experiences both on and off the mountain. 

 Plan Your Perfect Ski Trip to Queenstown & Wānaka 

With four world-class ski fields, stunning scenery, and plenty of off-snow activities, Queenstown and Wānaka offer some of the best skiing in New Zealand. Whether you’re carving groomed runs at Cardrona, exploring the backcountry at Treble Cone, or enjoying après-ski in Queenstown, these ski fields provide easy access and unforgettable alpine experiences. Base yourself in Queenstown, Wānaka, or split your stay between the two, as every resort is within easy reach. No matter your skill level, Queenstown and Wānaka have something for every winter enthusiast. Ready to hit the slopes? Start planning your ski trip today.