Shoop, shoop, shoop. Europe’s ski season may well and truly be over, but it’s just getting started here in New Zealand. Whether you are thinking of heading to your nearest slope or fancy jetting off to your neighbouring island for a winter adventure, nothing helps to beat the winter blues than planning an epic ski holiday.
Take a look at our top picks for skiing in New Zealand and then head onto Cheapflights.co.nz to find the best flight, hotel and car hire prices…
Whakapapa Ski Area
Let’s start with the North Island. The South Island may be known for its plethora of resorts, but the slopes of Mount Ruapehu and more specifically, Whakapapa, can definitely compete with the best of the south. Situated in Tongariro National Park, you’ll have 550 hectares of terrain to explore, which, interestingly, lie on an active volcano (we think it’s perhaps best that you don’t over-think that one though). 24 black runs will entertain the more seasoned skiers, but there are also slopes for beginners and more cautious skiers too.
Cardrona Alpine Resort
Cardrona is known on the South Island as being the best ski area for families, due to its wide slopes. It’s also one of the few to have on-site accommodation, so no need to waste time commuting to the slopes. This is all nicely packaged with Olympic-standard half pipes, four terrain parks and glorious alpine surrounds.
The Remarkables Ski Field
Just over half an hour from Queenstown, The Remarkables field is a good all-rounder, with wide runs for beginners and access to off-piste terrain for the more adventurous. Remarkable (ha, get it?) scenery abounds in this mountain range, and you’re close enough to Queenstown that you can enjoy both the scenery and the city in one trip.
Treble Cone Ski Resort
The South Island’s largest ski resort also boasts one of the highest snowfalls in the country, so it’s a good bet no matter how early or late in the season you visit. It’s also home to a massive 700 metre vertical, the longest in the Queenstown Southern Lakes District and an impressive blue run (Raffles Run) that leads to incredible views over Lake Wanaka. Despite these claims to fame, it is also one of the least crowded fields in the South Island – a win-win!
Roundhill Ski Area
Located in Lake Tekapo, this scenic resort has amazing views of the Southern Alps and Mount Cook. Home to the world’s largest rope tow, advanced skiers will be more than catered to, whilst beginners will enjoy the more basic runs.
Ready to hit the slopes? First, you’ve got to get there! Cheapflights.co.nz allows you to search for the best flight, hotel and car hire prices.
