Sustainable Mountain Transport - Getting to Cardrona & Treble Cone

A Conscious Way to Get to the Biggest Playground Around 

At Cardrona and Treble Cone, we’re serious about two things: unforgettable mountain days and protecting the maunga we are kaitiakitanga (guardians) of. With more people making the move to explore responsibly, getting up the hill sustainably is not just easy, it’s part of the fun.

Whether you’re rolling in from Queenstown, cruising out of Wānaka, or meeting us halfway, here’s your low-emission cheat sheet to getting up here, without leaving a heavy footprint. 

Take the Ski Bus from Queenstown 

Let someone else take the wheel while you sit back and soak in the views on one of our ski buses, running daily from Queenstown to both Cardrona and Treble Cone during the season. 

To Cardrona  The journey to Cardrona from Queenstown takes between 1 - 1.5 hrs, coming up through the stunning Crown Range. The ski bus drops you right at the base building, so there’s no need to worry about carparks, chains, or navigating the access road. It’s the perfect option if you want a relaxed, lower-emission start to your day. Plus, if you’re not a morning person or you’d rather enjoy a mulled wine on the mountain before heading home, the Après Bus lets you sleep in, ski longer, and stay for a drink or two before cruising back down. 

To Treble Cone  The Treble Cone ski bus makes the 1.5 - 2 hrs scenic drive feel like a breeze. With dramatic lake views while you climb, it’s a drive that’s best enjoyed from a comfy bus seat with your coffee in hand. You’ll get dropped off right at the base area, and there’s no need to hire a 4WD or bring chains—just jump on and let us do the heavy lifting. For visitors staying in Queenstown but wanting a taste of TC’s famous steeps, this is the easiest and most sustainable way to do it.

Take the Ski Bus from Wānaka 

If you're staying in Wānaka, getting to the mountains couldn’t be easier. Our ski buses run daily to both Cardrona and Treble Cone, so you can leave the logistics to us and focus on the fun stuff. 

To Cardrona  Cardrona is around a 40 - 45 minute drive from Wānaka, and the ski bus gets you there quickly and comfortably. It’s a great option for families, first timers, or anyone who’d rather skip the stress of driving up the mountain road. With gear safely stashed below and no need to battle for a car park, you’ll arrive fresh, relaxed, and ready to hit the slopes. 

To Treble Cone  Treble Cone is also just over 30 minutes from Wānaka, and taking the ski bus means you can avoid the gravel climb and parking shuffle at the base. Instead, you’ll get a scenic, no-stress lift straight to the action. It’s a top choice for solo adventurers, couples, or anyone who just wants a streamlined start to their TC day. 

Use the Free Shuttle Bus from the Bottom of the Mountain 

If you’re planning to drive but don’t fancy navigating the mountain roads, our free shuttle service is your best mate. You can park at the car parks located at the bottom of either mountain’s access road and hop aboard the shuttle for the final stretch up the mountain.  

Shuttles up Cardrona and Treble Cone run every 30 to 60 minutes starting from 8am. It’s a cruisy, comfortable way to enjoy the views while we take care of the climb.  

Rent a Sustainable Car from Our Mates at GO Rentals 

If you’re road tripping or just like to move at your own pace, GO Rentals has your back with a fleet of sustainable vehicles. From full EVs to hybrids and fuel-efficient cars, they’re helping you travel with a lighter footprint, without sacrificing adventure.

GO Rentals provides full support for electric vehicle drivers, including guidance on where to charge across New Zealand’s nationwide EV network. They’re also proudly certified CarbonZero through their Go Zero programme, which means they’re measuring, reducing, and offsetting their emissions the right way.

Better yet, when you book with the code GO10, you’ll get 10% off any rental car - not just the electric ones.

Pick up your wheels at Queenstown airport and you’ll be on the road in no time. Drive times to Cardrona are around one hour, and Treble Cone is roughly 90 minutes, making both mountains easily reachable no matter where you’re starting from.

Use our exclusive 10% discount code with GO Rentals here.

Carpooling: Better Together

If you are taking advantage of GO Rentals discount and have some space, consider carpooling up the mountain. One car, a couple of (new) mates, and a shared playlist—it’s a classic combo that’s also one of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint. By carpooling to Cardrona or Treble Cone, you’re helping to cut down on vehicle emissions and easing congestion in our carparks. It’s a simple way to do your bit for the environment—and it’s usually more fun too.

Want to make your carpool plan even smoother? Check out our Carpooling Tips for advice on packing, snacks, and snow day prep.

Transport Hints & Tips

To keep your mountain mornings running like clockwork, here are a few pro tips from the locals: 

• Make sure to book your ski bus early, especially on weekends and holidays when spots fill fast.  

• If you’re driving, always carry snow chains in your vehicle—and brush up on how to fit them here. 

• Check our snow report from 6am for the latest road and weather updates. 

• Arriving early gives you the best shot at prime parking, especially during peak times like school holidays. 

• Take advantage of our drop-off zone, where you can unload skis, boots, the lot, then head off to park up 

• If you’re hiring a car, don’t forget to use our GO10 discount code with GO Rentals for 10% off.

Choose Your Own (Sustainble) Adventure

No matter how you get to the mountains, there’s a sustainable way to do it. Whether it’s taking the ski bus, hopping in a GO Rental EV, catching the free shuttle, or teaming up with mates for a carpool, you’ve got choices that are kind to the planet and kinder on the wallet.

Ready to plan your journey? Head over to our Transport Page for everything you need to know before you go.