New Zealand is the ultimate destination for skiers and snowboarders, offering a staggering variety of experiences at ski areas ranging from well-serviced resorts to small club fields.

In addition to a range of fields for downhill skiing and snowboarding, there’s also a cross-country ski area, terrain parks for snowboards and the unforgettable opportunity to try heli-skiing. Slopes are generally less crowded than those on the continents and lift queues are shorter – best of all, you can indulge your love of snow sports in America and Europe’s off-season! An alpine climate of crisp sunny days and frosty nights, added to reliable snowfall, means plenty of powder.

Anyone can ski New Zealand. If you’re a beginner on the slopes, you’ll find plenty of places to hone your skills with the help of an expert tutor. Larger fields offer dedicated areas for learners (complete with easy-to-use lifts!). Those with more experience will love the challenges available: for extreme skiers and snowboarders, New Zealand is the ultimate destination. Heli-skiing is another unique thrill-seeker activity that’s worth saving up for!

On and off-piste, New Zealand offers the best possible lifestyle; top quality accommodation, and restaurants to suit every budget. In some major ski resort towns the party lasts all winter! And if you need a break from the slopes, you’ll find plenty of other activities, from a soak in a hot pool to an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride. On and off the slopes, New Zealand is the perfect place to spend your winter.

New Zealand Ski Areas

The majority of New Zealand’s ski areas are located in the Southern Alps of the South Island, but there are also ski areas in the Central North Island and Taranaki.

North Island

Central North Island

Turoa Ski Area – varied terrain including an off-trail area at the highest ski area in the Southern Hemisphere. Whakapapa Ski Area – New Zealand’s largest developed ski area has excellent facilities. Tukino Ski Area – gentle terrain for beginners and great powder runs for snowboarders.

Taranaki

Manganui Ski Area – outstanding snowboarding with natural half-pipes and steep runs.

South Island

Nelson

Rainbow Ski Area – Rainbow features varied terrain for beginners and intermediates.

Canterbury

Hanmer Springs Ski Area – varied intermediate skiing both on and off-piste. Mt Lyford Alpine Resort – terrain for all levels including a snowboarding terrain park. Broken River Ski Area – experience the exhilaration of wide open spaces at this isolated ski area. Craigieburn Valley – Craigieburn is well-known for being steep, deep and cheap! Temple Basin – hike in for exciting uncrowded slopes and night skiing. Mt Cheeseman – a family-friendly ski area. Mt Olympus – Mt Olympus features varied terrain for all abilities. Porters – impressive vertical drop, especially on the Big Mama run. Mt Hutt – the longest season in Australasia and consistent light, dry powder. Mt Potts Backcountry – helicopter-accessed terrain includes basins, chutes and cliffs.

Mackenzie

Fox Peak Ski Area – this ski area offers awesome trails and great scenery. Mt Dobson Ski Area – featuring a large learners’ area, natural half-pipe and terrain park. Roundhill Ski Area – gentle and safe slopes suitable for the whole family. Awakino Ski Area – plenty of powder for intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders. Ohau Snow Fields – a unique position means great snow and terrain for all levels.

Southern Lakes

Coronet Peak – terrain for all levels and two natural half-pipes. The Remarkables – great extreme terrain, but also good for families and beginners. Snow Farm Ski Area – New Zealand’s only dedicated cross-country ski area. Snow Park NZ – this dedicated terrain park guarantees thrills! Cardrona Alpine Resort – suitable for all levels, Cardrona also has a terrain park. Treble Cone Ski Area – extreme off-piste terrain, plus natural and manmade half-pipes.