Best New Zealand Ski Resorts

BEST 15 New Zealand Ski Resorts (North & South)

We have created a comprehensive list of 15 stunning ski resorts in New Zealand, each with its unique highlights and characteristics including details on location, proximity to major cities, and accessibility to help you plan your New Zealand ski holiday. While the “best” list is subjective and depends on individual preferences, We’ll include details on location, proximity to major cities, and accessibility to help you plan your perfect ski adventure:

North Island Ski Resorts:

1. Whakapapa Ski Area, Ruapehu

This iconic resort on Mount Ruapehu offers diverse terrain for all levels, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging off-piste runs for experts. It boasts the longest vertical drop in the North Island and stunning volcanic scenery.

• Location: 2 hours drive from Taupo, 5 hours drive from Auckland
• Highlights: Largest ski area in the North Island, varied terrain, stunning volcanic views, longest vertical drop
• Accessibility: Shuttle buses available from Taupo, and several accommodation options near the slopes

2. Tūroa Ski Area, Ruapehu

Located on the opposite side of Mount Ruapehu from Whakapapa, Tūroa offers a more compact but challenging terrain, particularly known for its advanced runs and steeps. Night skiing is also available.

• Location: 2 hours drive from Taupo, 5 hours drive from Auckland
• Highlights: Challenging terrain, advanced runs and steeps, night skiing, stunning views
• Accessibility: Shuttle buses available from Taupo, and several accommodation options near the slopes

South Island Ski Resorts:

3. Treble Cone Ski Area, Wanaka

This resort boasts the longest skiable vertical descent in New Zealand and offers challenging terrain for experienced skiers and snowboarders. Off-piste opportunities and stunning scenery are its highlights.

• Location: 40 minutes drive from Wanaka
• Highlights: Longest skiable vertical descent, challenging terrain, off-piste opportunities, stunning scenery
• Accessibility: Regular shuttle services from Wanaka, limited accommodation options near the slopes

4. Cardrona Alpine Resort, Wanaka

This family-friendly resort offers a variety of terrain for all levels, including beginner slopes, terrain parks, and off-piste areas. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere, après-ski activities, and proximity to Wanaka.

Location: 45 minutes drive from Wanaka
Highlights: Family-friendly atmosphere, variety of terrain, terrain parks, off-piste areas, après-ski activities, proximity to Wanaka
Accessibility: Regular shuttle services from Wanaka, various accommodation options near the slopes

5. Coronet Peak Ski Area, Queenstown

This iconic resort offers stunning views of the Remarkables mountain range and a good mix of terrain for all levels, including beginner slopes, advanced runs, and terrain parks. Night skiing and vibrant après-ski options are available.

6. The Remarkables Ski Area, Queenstown

Neighboring Coronet Peak, The Remarkables offer diverse terrain for all levels, including beginner-friendly areas, long intermediate runs, and challenging off-piste options. Stunning scenery and proximity to Queenstown are major draws.

7. Mt Difficulty Ski Area, Wanaka

This smaller resort offers a relaxed atmosphere and a good mix of intermediate and advanced terrain, particularly known for its powder bowls and tree runs. Stunning views of the Southern Alps are a bonus.

8. Ski Area Remarkables, Queenstown

Offering stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range, this resort boasts advanced terrain with challenging off-piste options and long groomed runs.

9. Mt Hutt Ski Area, Canterbury

This South Island resort offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with a good mix of beginner and intermediate slopes. It’s known for its reliable snow conditions and sunny days.

Location: 1.5 hours drive from Christchurch
Highlights: Family-friendly atmosphere, reliable snow conditions, sunny days, good mix of beginner and intermediate terrain
Accessibility: Regular shuttle buses from Christchurch, various accommodation options near the slopes

10. Craigieburn Valley Ski Area, Canterbury

This hidden gem offers a more remote and off-the-beaten-path experience with challenging terrain, particularly suited for intermediate and advanced skiers. It boasts stunning views of the Southern Alps.

Location: 2.5 hours drive from Christchurch
Highlights: Remote and off-the-beaten-path, challenging terrain, stunning Southern Alps views
Accessibility: Limited shuttle services, mostly self-drive access, limited accommodation options on-site

11. North Canterbury Ski Fields

This collection of smaller ski fields, including Hanmer Springs, Broken River, and Cheeseman, offers a variety of terrain for all levels at a more affordable price point. They are known for their relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly facilities.

Location: 1-2 hours drive from Christchurch
Highlights: Variety of terrain at different locations, affordable price point, relaxed atmosphere, family-friendly facilities
Accessibility: Shuttle services are available for some locations, mostly self-drive access, and various accommodation options near each field

12. Ohau Snow Fields, Canterbury

This remote resort caters to experienced skiers and snowboarders with challenging terrain, steep chutes, and extensive off-piste areas. Breathtaking backcountry scenery and limited crowds are highlights.

13. Porters Ski Area, Canterbury

This family-friendly resort offers a relaxed atmosphere and a good mix of beginner and intermediate terrain, including learner slopes and dedicated areas for children. Stunning mountain views and affordable prices are additional benefits.

14. Rainbow Ski Area, Canterbury

With a focus on beginner and intermediate skiers, Rainbow offers gentle slopes, dedicated learning areas, and a relaxed atmosphere. Affordable prices and proximity to Christchurch make it a popular choice for families.

15. Fox Peak Ski Area, West Coast

This remote resort offers a unique experience with challenging terrain, primarily suited for experienced skiers and snowboarders. Stunning West Coast scenery, including glaciers and rainforests, is a major attraction.

Additional factors to consider:

Your skiing/snowboarding ability: Choose a resort with terrain that matches your skill level.
Budget: Consider lift tickets, accommodation, and other expenses.
Atmosphere: Decide if you prefer a lively or relaxed resort.
Activities: Explore if the resort offers après-ski activities and other entertainment.
Travel time: Choose a resort that is accessible within your desired travel timeframe.

With so many exciting New Zealand ski resorts, NZ offers something for everyone. Remember to research and compare options based on your preferences to find the perfect winter wonderland for your next ski adventure!