As Winter returns to the southern hemisphere, Aotearoa New Zealand’s mountains are ready to deliver an alpine experience like no other. With a variety of ski experiences across the country, New Zealand offers everything from world-class resorts to intimate club fields and exhilarating glacier runs, all set against breathtaking alpine landscapes.
North Island
Tūroa Ski Area – Mount Ruapehu
Opening Season: June 28
Located on the southern slopes of Mount Ruapehu, Tūroa is known for its expansive, varied terrain and striking volcanic landscapes. With one of the country’s longest vertical descents (722 meters), it caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Whakapapa Ski Area – Mount Ruapehu
Opening Season: June 28
A world-class adventure playground located on the northern slopes of Mount Ruapehu in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. This ski area spans across 550 hectares of terrain formed by solidified lava, making for some of the most exhilarating skiing and snowboarding New Zealand has to offer.
South Island
Mt Hutt Ski Area – Canterbury
Opening Season: May 31 Voted New Zealand’s Best Ski Resort 10 years running, Mt Hutt offers wide-open terrain for all skill levels.
With superb conditions, spectacular landscapes, and laid-back Kiwi hospitality, it’s the ultimate destination for skiers and snowboarders.
Coronet Peak – Queenstown
Opening Season: June 14
Only 20 minutes from Queenstown, Coronet Peak is a dynamic resort with terrain for all abilities – from toddlers in Skiwiland to elite race teams.
When the sun goes down Coronet Peak takes après to a new level with Night Ski. Skiers and boarders can get their turns in under flood-lit slopes or enjoy the tunes on the deck with a mulled wine.
Ski The Tasman – Canterbury
Opening Season: July 1 Fly in by ski plane or helicopter to the top of New Zealand’s longest and most famous glacier, for the most iconic ski of the season in the magical alpine wilderness of Aoraki/Mount Cook.
