Best Places to Ski in New Zealand

Welcome to New Zealand, a country renowned for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. For expats and digital nomads who are also ski enthusiasts, New Zealand offers some of the best ski areas in the Southern Hemisphere. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn, an intermediate skier wanting to refine your skills, or an expert in search of challenging slopes, there's a ski area for you. Here are the 7-10 best ski areas in New Zealand, each offering a unique experience for your winter sports enjoyment.

Queenstown: Coronet Peak

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: Just 20 minutes from Queenstown.
Family Friendly: Yes

Coronet Peak is one of the most popular ski areas near Queenstown, offering a range of slopes for all skill levels and a vibrant après-ski scene. With night skiing available, the fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down. Families will appreciate the dedicated learning facilities and fun-filled activities for children.

We Recommend: After a day on the slopes, head to The Remarkables Mountain Lodge for a cozy atmosphere and hearty meals that will warm you up from the inside out.

Wanaka: Cardrona Alpine Resort

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: Situated between Wanaka and Queenstown.
Family Friendly: Yes

Cardrona is known for its wide, open trails and is a favorite among families and freestyle skiers and snowboarders. With four terrain parks and two halfpipes, it's a playground for those looking to practice their tricks. The resort also offers excellent facilities for children, including ski school and childcare.

We Recommend: The Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest hotels, is a must-visit for its historic charm and delicious local cuisine.

Wanaka: Treble Cone

Ability Level: Intermediate to expert.
Location: A 35-minute drive from Wanaka.
Family Friendly: No

Treble Cone boasts the largest ski area on the South Island and is best suited for those with more experience on the slopes. It offers stunning views of Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring and is known for its long runs and challenging terrain. While it's not as family-oriented as other resorts, it's perfect for the adventurous skier or snowboarder.

We Recommend: For a unique après-ski experience, visit the quirky Cinema Paradiso in Wanaka, where you can enjoy a movie, homemade cookies, and a glass of local wine.

Christchurch: Mt Hutt

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: About a 90-minute drive from Christchurch.
Family Friendly: Yes

Mt Hutt is known for having one of the longest ski seasons in the Southern Hemisphere and offers a mix of terrain for all levels. It's particularly family-friendly with a dedicated learning area, a skier cross course, and a range of children's programs.

We Recommend: The Blue Pub in Methven is a local favorite, offering a warm, rustic environment and a menu full of classic New Zealand pub fare.

Queenstown: The Remarkables

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: About a 45-minute drive from Queenstown.
Family Friendly: Yes

The Remarkables ski area is aptly named for its impressive mountain range and offers varied terrain that caters to all levels. It's particularly good for families and beginners, with gentle slopes and a friendly atmosphere. The park features include jumps, rails, and boxes for those looking to improve their freestyle skills.

We Recommend: Stop by the Ozone Coffee Roasters at the base building for a top-notch coffee and a selection of tasty treats to fuel your day on the mountain.

Ohakune: Turoa Ski Area

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: On the southwestern slopes of Mt Ruapehu.
Family Friendly: Yes

Turoa offers a massive vertical drop and a variety of terrain, including Australasia's longest vertical descent. The ski area is great for families, with a winter garden for kids and a snow school for all ages. The High Noon Express takes you to the top for breathtaking views and access to a range of runs.

We Recommend: The Powderkeg is a well-known spot in Ohakune for its lively atmosphere and great selection of local beers and food.

Ohakune: Whakapapa Ski Area

Ability Level: All ability levels.
Location: On the northern slopes of Mt Ruapehu.
Family Friendly: Yes

Whakapapa is New Zealand's largest ski area and boasts a variety of terrain, including the gentle slopes of Happy Valley, perfect for beginners. It's also home to some of the country's most advanced runs. The ski area is very family-friendly, with plenty of facilities and activities for children.

We Recommend: The Knoll Ridge Café, at 2020 meters above sea level, offers not only stunning views but also a range of delicious meals and snacks.

Lake Tekapo: Roundhill Ski Area

Ability Level: Beginner to intermediate.
Location: On the shores of Lake Tekapo.
Family Friendly: Yes

Roundhill is a family-oriented ski area with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and Lake Tekapo. It's an excellent place for beginners and intermediates, with wide, groomed runs and a relaxed atmosphere. The ski area also features a world-class ski school for those looking to improve their skills.

We Recommend: The Astro Café at the Mt John Observatory offers not only some of the best views in the country but also a selection of great coffee and snacks.

Mount Cook: Tasman Glacier Skiing

Ability Level: Intermediate to expert.
Location: Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Family Friendly: No

For a truly unique skiing experience, the Tasman Glacier offers ski plane and helicopter access to New Zealand's longest glacier. This is not your typical ski resort but rather an adventure for those looking for off-piste skiing in a spectacular alpine environment. It's suited for intermediate to expert skiers who are comfortable in backcountry conditions.

We Recommend: The Old Mountaineers' Café, Bar & Restaurant in Mount Cook Village is a great place to unwind and share stories of your glacier adventures over locally sourced food and wine.

Whether you're in New Zealand for a short-term stay or planning to make it your new home, these ski areas offer a fantastic winter sports experience. Remember to check the conditions and facilities that suit your needs, and most importantly, enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Aotearoa's snow-capped mountains.