Queenstown, New Zealand - A Skier/Snowboarders Paradise

The destination of choice for skiing and snowboarding holidays in the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand has something to please even the most demanding visitors.

Most of the ski slopes in New Zealand are located in the country’s vast South Island. Although there are many small community run ski fields throughout the country, the large commercial ski fields are the ones that attract a huge number of tourists every year. That being said, the smaller community and club run ski fields are definitely worth a shot if you are travelling on a budget or looking for a change of pace. Generally speaking, the best snow conditions and top-notch tourist amenities can be found in the bigger ski fields. They are also great if you enjoy the non-stop party atmosphere of a busy ski resort.

Queenstown, located in the South Island’s Otago region, is New Zealand’s most popular skiing and snowboarding destination. Much more than just another winter resort town, Queenstown offers several large ski resorts, amazing natural scenery and a world-class tourist infrastructure. In the winter it sees a huge influx of skiers and snowboarders looking to take advantage of Queenstown’s many snow covered mountains.

The big three ski fields in Queenstown are Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Cardrona. Of the three Cardrona is the furthest from Queenstown, but is well worth the trip as it has a large skiing area and is the site of many winter-sports competitions and events. Both the Remarkables and Coronet Peak are run by the same operator and share the same ticketing system, making it easy for visitors to try both without having to book twice. The Remarkables offers huge jumps, a top to bottom run as well as a back country run for the more intrepid skiers out there. Coronet Peak is closest to Queenstown as is also the busiest - if crowds aren’t your thing you may want to give the Remarkables or Cardrona a try.

Queenstown is also popular for its vibrant nightlife and upbeat party atmosphere. There are plenty of bars and clubs that cater to visiting tourists; you can even take part in organized pub crawls as an easy way of meeting and partying with fellow travellers from around the world. For something completely different, why not have a few drinks at the Minus 5 Ice Bar, a bar made completely of ice.

Another great skiing and snowboarding venue is Mount Hutt located west of the Canterbury Plains near Christchurch. Operated by the same company that runs the Remarkables and Coronet Peak, Mount Hutt is ideal for anyone who wants a skiing or snowboarding holiday away from the crowds. Perfect for group outings or family trips, Mount Hutt is accessible from the quaint rural town of Methven. Since they are all run by the same company, a multiday pass will get you access to Mount Hutt, the Remarkables and Coronet Peak - an amazing bargain.

Mount Hutt is also great for snowboarders since it is less crowded than other fields and is reputed to have the best snow conditions in the South Island. Although you miss out on the nightlife and party atmosphere of a fun resort town like Queenstown, you will more than make up for it with all the extra skiing and snowboarding at Mount Hutt.