4 Best Ski Resorts in Queenstown, 2023/24
Queenstown is known for being an adventure capital, ranging from adrenaline activities to leisurely experiences. With the help of local insiders, we’ve put together a list of the 4 best ski resorts worth skiing.
1. Cardrona
Cardrona is well known for its epic panoramic views and decent amount of acreage spread across three bowls. With wide open beginner trails, Cardrona is the only resort in New Zealand with green runs along the top of the mountain. While it doesn’t get as much snow as other places, what does fall is protected by a south-facing aspect which keeps the snow last for longer. Being located halfway between Queenstown and Wanaka, crowds are unavoidable, however, even if you’re there on a busy day you’ll find the atmosphere is generally friendly and relaxed – something “skiwi” culture has definitely perfected!
Known for
Best atmosphere for families in a convenient locationHighlights
- All-rounder resort with a good mix of terrain
- Modern infrastructure
- Easy access to Queenstown
- Sometimes crowded and potentially tricky drive
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: Jun 15 2024
- Closing Date: Oct 13 2024* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Cardrona is well known for its epic panoramic views and decent amount of acreage spread across three bowls. With wide open beginner trails, Cardrona is the only resort in New Zealand with green runs along the top of the mountain. While it doesn’t get as much snow as other places, what does fall is protected by a south-facing aspect which keeps the snow last for longer. Being located halfway between Queenstown and Wanaka, crowds are unavoidable, however, even if you’re there on a busy day you’ll find the atmosphere is generally friendly and relaxed – something “skiwi” culture has definitely perfected!
2. Treble Cone
Why Ski Treble Cone
Treble Cone generally sees the most snow of any resort in New Zealand. With 45% of its trails rated for intermediates and another 45% for advanced skiers, there's plenty of choice for everyone. While beginners terrain is somewhat limited, the good news is that Treble Cone provides free access to the Magic Carpet and discounted passes to the Platter Lift. While you can stay at Queenstown, Treble Cone is conveniently located near Wanaka which has a great selection of lodging, restaurants, shopping, and services and would make a great addition to any South Island ski itinerary.
Known for
Natural free-ride terrain, with plentiful snow, and inspiring viewsHighlights
- Largest ski area on the South Island
- Fantastic runs for intermediates and experts
- New Zealand’s highest annual snowfall
- Very limited beginner terrain and relatively expensive lift tickets
23/24 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: Jul 04 2023
- Closing Date: Oct 01 2023* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Why Ski Treble Cone
Treble Cone generally sees the most snow of any resort in New Zealand. With 45% of its trails rated for intermediates and another 45% for advanced skiers, there's plenty of choice for everyone. While beginners terrain is somewhat limited, the good news is that Treble Cone provides free access to the Magic Carpet and discounted passes to the Platter Lift. While you can stay at Queenstown, Treble Cone is conveniently located near Wanaka which has a great selection of lodging, restaurants, shopping, and services and would make a great addition to any South Island ski itinerary.
3. Remarkables
Why Ski Remarkables
At just under 550 acres, The Remarkables might have a limited range of terrain but the views are certainly big. With three magic carpets at the base and great progressive trails, The Remarkables is an excellent choice for families with beginners who need to get their skis under them. At the same time, there are plenty of expert runs for skiers who are willing to hike. So, there ought to be enough to keep just about all the skiers in your crew happy. The only downside is that there is no ski-in/ ski-out accomodation so you’ll have to stay in Queenstown which is just 30 minutes away.
Known for
A family-friendly experience amongst some of New Zealand’s most photographed mountainsHighlights
- Great place to learn to ski
- Closest ski resort to Queenstown
- Some of the best terrain parks in the country
- Expensive lift tickets and small ski area
23/24 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: Jun 17 2023
- Closing Date: Oct 08 2023* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Why Ski Remarkables
At just under 550 acres, The Remarkables might have a limited range of terrain but the views are certainly big. With three magic carpets at the base and great progressive trails, The Remarkables is an excellent choice for families with beginners who need to get their skis under them. At the same time, there are plenty of expert runs for skiers who are willing to hike. So, there ought to be enough to keep just about all the skiers in your crew happy. The only downside is that there is no ski-in/ ski-out accomodation so you’ll have to stay in Queenstown which is just 30 minutes away.
4. Coronet Peak
Why Ski Coronet Peak
The views from Coronet Peak across Lake Wakatipu are incredible, and intermediates will have a blast from all the terrain to choose from. Natural snowfall here is somewhat inconsistent, but it’s augmented by the most extensive snowmaking system in the country. And as a nice bonus, on Friday and Saturday, there’s night skiing under the lights! What's so special about Coronet Peak is that there are on-mountain accomodation options which is rare for New Zealand. Otherwise, Queenstown is a prime leisure destination itself, and offers plenty of other choices for sleeping, eating, and shopping!
Known for
Panoramic views and the most popular on South IslandHighlights
- Easy to get to from Queenstown
- Particularly great for intermediate skiers and riders
- Efficient lift system
- Inconsistent natural snowfall
23/24 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: Jun 16 2023
- Closing Date: Sep 24 2023* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Why Ski Coronet Peak
The views from Coronet Peak across Lake Wakatipu are incredible, and intermediates will have a blast from all the terrain to choose from. Natural snowfall here is somewhat inconsistent, but it’s augmented by the most extensive snowmaking system in the country. And as a nice bonus, on Friday and Saturday, there’s night skiing under the lights! What's so special about Coronet Peak is that there are on-mountain accomodation options which is rare for New Zealand. Otherwise, Queenstown is a prime leisure destination itself, and offers plenty of other choices for sleeping, eating, and shopping!
