Whether you're a total novice or expert-level skier, Queenstown has you covered for an epic ski season. This winter wonderland ticks all of the boxes, from gear hire to transportation, lessons and the all-important après-ski scene.
Queenstown boasts four world-class ski fields, all easily accessed within a 90-minute drive from the centre of the town. Among them, you'll find a slope for you, whether it's the gentle beginner tracks of The Remarkables or the playful terrain of Coronet Peak.
Wondering where even to start? Here's our guide to nailing a skiing or snowboarding holiday in Queenstown.
Beginner Skiers | Skill Up On The Slopes
Queenstown is the perfect base to dip your toes into the sport of skiing or snowboarding. Organising a ski day (or several) is easy as pie, whether you're just starting out or bringing the whole crew along.
As far as gear goes, hire the goods in town, have them delivered to your accommodation or simply pick them up from the ski field—too easy. The main street in town is also lined with specialty shops to peruse. Treat yourself to a new beanie or winter jacket; go on, you deserve it.
Don't stress about fitting the car with snow chains or finding a car park either; the mountain transport from town or your accommodation is elite-level. Book a ski bus or opt for a shuttle, leaving you to take in the views or catch some shut-eye on the way home.
Regardless of which ski field you choose, you'll be well looked after with dedicated beginner areas and the option to book ski lessons. We suggest kicking things off at The Remarkables. Check out their beginner packages or enjoy a generous learners section, with some of the widest and smoothest beginner runs, comfortable progression slopes and on-mountain spots to rest your legs for lunch. We recommend the Barista Bar in the base building or the Ice Bar for a brew with a view.
Bringing the kids along for the ride? Just an hour's drive over the Crown Range from Queenstown—head to Cardrona Alpine Resort for the day where there are childcare services, a Ski Kindy and Adventure Programmes to keep them busy. Plus, their chondola (a combo of gondola cabins and chairs) makes getting up the slopes a breeze. Or, if you're not skiing and prefer to sit back and soak in the views, get yourself a single gondola ride pass to take you to the top of the mountain comfortably. And if you're partial to a fine tipple, you can grab a glass of bubbles from the Vista Bar while up there, how good!
Intermediate & Advanced Skiers | Hit The Snow World-Class Style
Queenstown sets the tone for the snow scene of the South. From international pros to local legends, the selection of terrain makes it the place of choice for seasoned skiers and snowboarders.
Home to an epic calendar of events and festivals, there's always something going down around here. The mountain is no different—where you'll find top-tier facilities, tasty cafés, lunch joints and the essential post-ski bar.
The four different mountains leave you spoiled for choice when it comes to the slopes. Coronet Peak, often hailed as the 'locals mountain', caters to the thrill-seeking racers with energetic terrain that leads to the infamous Exchange Drop—a steep black run sure to set your legs on fire. Only a 20-minute drive out of town, set your alarm for an early start skiing First Tracks to soak in the gorgeous sunrise followed by brekky. Or, if the early start's not for you, scope out the sunset at Night Ski, running Wednesdays and Fridays from June 22nd until September.
Meanwhile, Treble Cone will steal the hearts of free-riders. 90-minutes from Queenstown, the largest ski resort in the South Island is brimming with an abundance of enticing natural features, from halfpipes to steep runs in off-piste terrain. Plus, the epic views of Lake Wānaka and world-class almond croissants don't hurt.
Far from just for beginners, The Remarkables also offers plenty for the more experienced skier, including incredible freeride terrain and up to seven terrain parks—including the only Burton Stash concept park in the Southern Hemisphere.
All Skiers | Wind Down With The Après-Ski Scene
Let's be honest; half the fun of a ski holiday is what happens off the mountain. A stellar après-ski scene is mandatory, and Queenstown more than delivers on this front. From pumping nightlife and lakefront locations to incredible live music and cosy fireside resting after a day on the slopes, it ticks all the boxes.
With over 150 bars and restaurants to choose from, you'll easily find yourself spoilt for choice. But if a pint and a gig is what you're after, look no further than The World Bar and Little Blackwood.
For a mug of mulled wine or an elaborate cocktail, you can't go past some of the best bars around town. Perched on a hill above the town centre is Nest Bar, offering unparalleled views over Lake Whakatipu and equally impressive smoked cocktails.
Let's not forget the star of the evening, a well-deserved hearty meal. Queenstown has more than its fair share of delicious restaurants, from colourful Mexican feasts at Margo's to comforting Italian fare at The Cow. Or, indulge in a comfort meal at Botswana Butchery—their high country lamb is a must-have.
Need more inspo? Get inspired for things to do in Queenstown at night over here.
It's officially that time of year; stave off the winter blues by booking an enchanting escape to the home of winter—Queenstown is ready and waiting.
Editor's note: this article was produced in partnership with Destination Queenstown. Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.
Image credit: Supplied