Wānaka & Queenstown Ski Accommodation – Top Places to Stay

Wānaka and Queenstown are two of New Zealand’s premier ski destinations, offering easy access to Cardrona, Treble Cone, Coronet Peak, and The Remarkables.

But where’s the best place to stay for a ski trip? From on-mountain apartments at Cardrona to luxury lakefront hotels and budget-friendly hostels, there’s a wide range of ski accommodations to suit every type of traveller. In this guide, we’ll cover: 

• The best ski accommodation options in Wānaka & Queenstown

• On-mountain vs. in-town stays – what’s best for your trip?

• Family-friendly stays, budget lodges, and luxury ski retreats

Where to Stay for Skiing in Wānaka & Queenstown?

Both Wānaka and Queenstown have their perks, it really depends on what you’re looking for in a ski trip.

Wānaka: Laid-Back, Scenic & Close to Cardrona and Treble Cone

Home to some of the best ski accommodation, Wānaka is all about that relaxed pace and postcard-perfect lake views. It’s ideal if you’re skiing with family, chasing powder days at Treble Cone, or just want a more chilled base. 

• Drive time to Cardrona: 40 minutes

• Drive time to Treble Cone: 35 minutes 

• Drive time to Coronet Peak: 1 hour 10 minutes 

• Drive time to The Remarkables: 1 hour 30 minutes 

Best for: Families, freeriders chasing powder at Treble Cone, and those seeking a laid-back ski holiday.

Queenstown: Buzzing, Social, & Close to Coronet Peak and The Remarkables

If you’re looking for a ski holiday with a side of nightlife, Queenstown delivers. Expect more Queenstown ski hotels, hostels, and high-end resorts - plus an epic après-ski scene. 

• Drive time to Coronet Peak: 20 minutes 

• Drive time to The Remarkables: 45 minutes 

• Drive time to Cardrona: 1 hour 

• Drive time to Treble Cone: 1 hour 30 minutes 

Best for: Social skiers, budget-conscious travellers, and those looking for a mix of skiing and Queenstown’s adventure scene.

On-Mountain Ski Accommodation at Cardrona 

For those who want maximum ski time and no morning commute, staying on-mountain at Cardrona Alpine Resort is the best option. These self-contained apartments are the only ski-in, ski-out accommodation near Queenstown and Wānaka. Perfect for families, groups, and anyone who thinks a good ski day starts before sunrise. Inside, you’ll find 1 - 4 bedroom apartments, each fully kitted out with kitchens, lounge areas, and all the comforts of home. There are drying rooms and ski storage to keep your gear sorted, and an on-site après option when it’s time to kick off the boots.

Why Stay on the Mountain? 

• No morning travel hassle – just wake up and ski 

• Perfect for families – easy access to Cardrona Kids’ Club & childcare 

• Après options onsite – ski-in bars and restaurants make for relaxed evenings 

💡Tip: On-mountain accommodation is limited, so booking early (6+ months in advance) is recommended.

Best Ski Accommodation in Wānaka

Wānaka offers a wide range of accommodation options for ski travellers, whether you're here for the week or just chasing a few bluebird days. It’s a town that caters well to families, seasoned skiers, and those who want a quieter base close to Cardrona and Treble Cone. Here are some of the top picks across different budgets and styles.

Luxury Stays 

• Edgewater Wānaka: Spa, lakefront views, après dining done right 

• Lakeside Apartments: Spacious, stylish, and self-contained 

Family-Friendly & Mid-Range 

• Oakridge Resort: Heated pools and a day spa for the grown-ups 

• Wānaka Hotel: Affordable, central, and perfect for families 

Budget & Social 

• The Brownston Wānaka: Dorms and private rooms with a social vibe 

• YHA Wānaka: Backpacker-friendly with ski lockers and mountain view

Best Ski Accommodation in Queenstown 

As a larger, more bustling base, Queenstown has plenty of ski accommodation to choose from, ranging from high-end resorts to practical stays that keep you closer to the action. If you’re mixing skiing with dining out or exploring the town, it’s a solid choice with something to suit every budget and travel style. 

Luxury Stays 

• Matakauri Lodge: Five stars and jaw dropping views from every window. 

• Hilton Queenstown: Spa, lakeside location, and full-service comfort. 

Family-Friendly & Mid-Range 

• Blue Peaks Apartments: Kitchen facilities and space to spread out. 

• Holiday Inn Queenstown: Easy access to ski buses, great for kids. 

Budget & Social 

• Nomads Queenstown: Hostel with a killer location and social energy. 

• JUCY Snooze: Individual ‘pods’ close to town and transport. 

Ski Shuttles & Transport – How to Get Up the Hill

Getting to the slopes is easy, whether you’re staying in Wānaka or Queenstown, thanks to regular ski shuttles servicing Cardrona, Treble Cone, Coronet Peak, and The Remarkables. Daily ski buses run from both towns, offering a stress-free alternative to navigating alpine roads - ideal if you’d rather take a nap over a map.

If you're self-driving, both resorts have car parks, though you’ll often need chains, especially after a snowfall. At Cardrona, the lower part of the access road is now sealed, and a free mountain shuttle runs from the Pines Carpark (at the bottom of the access road) straight to the base building - perfect for avoiding gravel and parking. Queenstown visitors can also opt for the Après Bus, which allows for a later start and a few après drinks before heading down the mountain.

Insider Tips for Booking Ski Accommodation 

• Book early: Especially for July and August 

• Look for ski storage and drying rooms: Your boots will thank you 

• Stay near a ski bus stop: If you’re not driving, it’s a lifesaver 

• Check for packages: Some spots offer discounted lift passes 

• Self-catering? Look for a kitchenette or nearby cafes 

Summary – Where Should You Stay?

If you're focused on skiing Cardrona or Treble Cone, Wānaka ski accommodation gives you a head start, with short drive times and a more relaxed atmosphere. It's the perfect base for families, seasoned skiers chasing steep lines, and anyone wanting a laid-back alpine vibe. Cardrona’s apartments are the ultimate in ski convenience, offering New Zealand’s only on-mountain accommodation, with room for the whole crew.

On the flip side, Queenstown ski accommodation puts you closer to Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, and adds a buzzing après scene, vibrant nightlife, and a huge range of restaurants and bars into the mix.

No matter which town you choose, you'll have access to some of New Zealand’s most iconic ski terrain, excellent transport links, and accommodation options tailored to your budget and travel style. The only hard part? Figuring out how to leave at the end of it all.