Coronet Peak, Queenstown's iconic local mountain, stands proudly above the bustling resort town nestled below. Known as the locals' mountain, Coronet Peak is cherished not only for its close proximity to town but also for its deep-rooted place within the community. Since opening in 1947 as New Zealand's first commercial ski field, Coronet Peak has been a pioneer, consistently leading advancements in the industry. Today, it boasts the largest snowmaking system in the Southern Hemisphere and offers New Zealand's longest ski day, with options like First Tracks and Night Ski.

The mountain’s roller-coaster terrain, wide runs, and exhilarating laps cater to all skill levels, providing ample vertical for those who seek performance and thrill. Access is quick and convenient—a mere 20-minute drive from town along a scenic alpine road, or via the popular Ski Bus. Before heading up, checking the snow report ensures optimal conditions.For beginners, Coronet Peak is an ideal destination for learning to ski or snowboard. Comprehensive beginner facilities, modern, user-friendly chairlifts, and progressive terrain ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience on the slopes.

Nestled in the heart of the South Island, just 90 minutes from Christchurch, Mt Hutt stands as a cherished gem among locals and a well-kept secret for many. It's no surprise that this mountain has clinched New Zealand’s Best Ski Resort title three years running at the prestigious World Ski Awards. Mt Hutt is renowned for its legendary powder days, offering exhilarating runs that test even the most seasoned skiers and snowboarders. The expansive groomed runs cater to all skill levels, complemented by top-tier terrain parks featuring world-class jumps and thrilling off-piste opportunities. What sets Mt Hutt apart is not just its exceptional skiing and snowboarding conditions, but also its authentic Kiwi hospitality, creating an inviting atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Nestled amidst the breathtaking scenery of New Zealand's South Island, Queenstown stands as the ultimate ski destination. Surrounded by stunning mountains and overlooking the serene Lake Wakatipu, it offers unparalleled access to four prominent ski resorts within an easy 90-minute drive. Coronet Peak, just 25 minutes away, boasts New Zealand's original skiing heritage with its dramatic terrain and early morning "First Tracks" sessions, extending all the way to exhilarating night skiing until 9pm

The Remarkables promises an unforgettable experience, inviting both young adventurers and the young at heart to revel in its sun-drenched, expansive terrain. With breathtaking views and a diverse selection of trails, skiers and snowboarders of all levels can find their perfect slope. Beginners can enjoy a world-class learner’s area, complete with a cozy café for family onlookers, while more seasoned riders can tackle accessible green runs, intermediate trails, or even daring black diamond chutes and backcountry routes. The Remarkables encourages visitors to plan ahead for the ideal experience—secure a lift pass for your group, reserve lessons in advance, and get ready to make the most of each run. Equipment rentals are conveniently available on-site or in Queenstown’s Snow Centre, at 25 Shotover Street.

For those keen to sharpen their skills, The Remarkables offers over 40 features in its freestyle parks, alongside a massive learner’s area for first-timers. The new Shadow chairlift, built for speed and access, doubles the pace and opens up nearly 50% more lift-accessible terrain, ensuring more runs and less wait time. Just a 45-minute drive from Queenstown, the mountain is easily accessible via the Ski Bus, and visitors are invited to unwind with a well-earned drink at the Ice Bar, soaking in epic views of the Wakatipu Basin. This mountain paradise is all about enjoying Queenstown’s finest slopes with a community of passionate riders.

Treble Cone, the second-largest ski area on New Zealand's South Island, is a haven for skiers and riders seeking a unique blend of uncrowded runs, challenging terrain, and panoramic views that stretch over the stunning Lake Wānaka. Known for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes, Treble Cone offers a variety of experiences for all skill levels.

With over 550 hectares of skiable area, skiers can explore spacious slopes that give a true sense of freedom without the bustle typical of busier resorts. For those looking to advance, the long, open runs offer plenty of space to develop confidence and technique, making it an ideal setting for intermediate skiers and riders aiming to progress.

More advanced thrill-seekers will find that Treble Cone pushes the boundaries with its exciting off-piste terrain and steep, adrenaline-pumping runs. The area is renowned for its natural half-pipes and powder faces, giving advanced riders the chance to experience dynamic, backcountry-like conditions within bounds. For the truly daring, the Motatapu Chutes present some of the steepest in-bounds terrain in New Zealand, offering an unforgettable challenge and rewarding those bold enough to tackle it. This combination of stunning vistas, varied terrain, and a blend of slopes for all levels cements Treble Cone as one of the premier destinations for winter sports enthusiasts in New Zealand.

Wanaka, nestled just 45 minutes from Queenstown, is a magnet for global visitors, drawn by its stunning natural beauty, welcoming community, and proximity to world-class mountains. This vibrant town offers a blend of stylish boutiques, a thriving food and drink scene, and a diverse range of accommodations. It's a perfect gateway to two renowned ski areas: Treble Cone and Cardrona, both accessible with a single lift pass.