Planning a ski holiday in New Zealand for 2024? Look no further! This ultimate guide video covers everything you need to know about the ski season in New Zealand, including the best skiing resorts, accommodation options, transportation, and ski packages.

Ski Season New Zealand 2024

The ski season in New Zealand is eagerly anticipated by locals and visitors alike. Let’s dive into the details of what you can expect for the 2024 season.

Timing and Duration

The ski season in New Zealand typically starts from the end of June and runs until mid or late September. The exact timing can vary each year depending on snow levels.

Peak Times and School Holidays

New Zealand’s ski fields attract a significant number of visitors, especially during peak times. The school holidays in 2024 will be from the 6th to the 21st of July, making this period particularly busy. August is also a popular month for skiing.

Planning Tips

To make the most of your trip, it’s essential to plan early. This includes booking flights and accommodations well in advance. If you can, try to avoid traveling during the school holidays to enjoy less crowded slopes and more accommodation options.

Don’t forget to download our free New Zealand planning sheet to help with your travel arrangements. And if you find this guide helpful, please subscribe to our channel for more tips!

Best Skiing Resorts in New Zealand

New Zealand boasts a variety of top-notch skiing resorts, each offering unique experiences. Here are some of the best skiing destinations in New Zealand.

Queenstown and Wanaka

These two regions are home to some of the most popular ski resorts in New Zealand. They offer diverse terrain and stunning scenery.

• Coronet Peak: Just a short drive from Queenstown, Coronet Peak offers terrain suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
• The Remarkables: Known for its breathtaking views over Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables is a favorite among freestyle enthusiasts and families.
• Cardrona Alpine Resort: Situated between Queenstown and Wanaka, Cardrona is famous for its wide open slopes and impeccable maintenance.
• Treble Cone: Located in Wanaka, Treble Cone offers the largest skiable terrain in the Southern Lakes Region, with stunning views over Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring National Park.

Canterbury

Canterbury is another fantastic region for skiing, offering reliable snowfall and a variety of terrains.

• Mount Hutt: Just over an hour’s drive from Christchurch, Mount Hutt is known for its extensive terrain and stunning views over the Canterbury Plains.
• Porter Heights: Located in the heart of the Craigeburn Range, Porter Heights is a hidden gem with a family-friendly atmosphere and uncrowded slopes.

North Island

The North Island also offers excellent skiing opportunities, particularly on the majestic Mount Ruapehu.

• Whakapapa: One of the largest ski areas in New Zealand, offering a variety of runs for all skill levels.
• Turoa: Known for its extensive terrain and challenging runs, Turoa is a favorite among advanced skiers.

Ski Accommodation Options in New Zealand

When planning a ski holiday in New Zealand, there’s a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some popular choices to consider.

Ski Resort Accommodation

Some resorts in New Zealand are conveniently located close to the ski fields. An example would be Millbrook Resort, which is situated just outside Queenstown. These resorts often come with added amenities such as restaurants and spa facilities.

Self-Contained Apartments and Chalets

Perfect for families or groups looking for more space and privacy, self-contained apartments or chalets are abundant around Wanaka. These accommodations offer the comfort of home with added privacy.

Hotels and Motels

Nearby towns and villages often have a variety of hotels, motels, and lodges catering to skiers and snowboarders. Places like Queenstown, Wanaka, Methven, and Ohakune are popular options with accommodations to suit every preference and budget.

Boutique Lodges and Luxury Retreats

For those seeking a higher level of comfort and personalized service, boutique lodges and luxury retreats are excellent choices. These exclusive properties often provide a more intimate and luxurious experience.

Holiday Homes and Airbnb

Renting a holiday home or booking an Airbnb can be a great option for families or groups looking for a home-away-from-home experience. These properties often come with fully equipped kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and amenities such as hot tubs or fireplaces.

Hostel-Style Accommodation

For budget-conscious travelers, hostel-style accommodations offer an affordable option. These are ideal for solo travelers or those looking to save on lodging expenses.

No matter where you choose to stay, booking accommodation well in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak ski season New Zealand, between July and September. Consider factors such as proximity to the ski resorts, available amenities, and transport options while making your decision.

Ski Transport and Transfers in New Zealand

Transportation to ski fields in New Zealand varies depending on the location of the ski resort and individual preferences. Here are some common transport options to help you navigate the ski season New Zealand.

Self-Drive

Many visitors to New Zealand opt for a rental car or camper van. These provide flexibility and convenience for accessing major ski fields. Most major ski resorts have well-marked roads and ample parking facilities.

• Check road conditions during winter
• Carry snow chains
• Ample parking at resorts

Shuttle Services

Many ski resorts offer shuttle services from nearby towns and cities to the ski fields. These services typically operate on a regular schedule and may be included in ski packages or available for a separate fee.

• Regular shuttle schedules
• Included in some ski packages
• Convenient for those without cars

Public Transport

For example, the ski fields around Queenstown and Wanaka are served by a regular bus service from Queenstown and Wanaka town centers. This is a convenient and affordable option for those who prefer not to drive.

• Regular bus services
• Affordable transport option
• Serves major ski fields

Private Transfers

For added comfort and convenience, visitors can arrange private transfers or taxi services to ski fields from airports, hotels, and other locations. Private transfers provide a door-to-door service and can be tailored to your preferences and schedules.

• Door-to-door service
• Customizable schedules
• Comfort and convenience

Helicopter and Scenic Flights

For a truly memorable experience, some ski resorts offer helicopter or scenic flights. These flights enable you to experience remote backcountry terrain or provide aerial views over the surrounding landscapes.

• Experience remote terrain
• Aerial views of landscapes
• Unique way to reach slopes

No matter your transport preference, New Zealand offers a range of options to ensure you can easily access the ski fields and make the most of your ski season New Zealand experience.

Ski in NZ Packages for a 2024 Skiing Holiday

Booking a ski package can be both a convenient and cost-effective option for your 2024 skiing holiday in New Zealand.

Lift Passes

Most ski packages include lift passes that grant access to the ski resorts. These passes cover chair lifts, gondolas, and ski terrain for a specified number of days.

• Access to slopes
• Chair lifts
• Gondolas

Accommodation

Ski packages often come with accommodation options that range from budget-friendly motels to luxury chalets or hotels. This provides flexibility depending on your budget and preferences.

• Motels
• Luxury chalets
• Hotels

Rental Gear

Ski packages typically include rental equipment such as skis, snowboards, boots, poles, and helmets. This equipment is available for both adults and children at various skill levels.

• Skis
• Snowboards
• Boots
• Poles
• Helmets

Lesson Options

Some packages may include skiing and snowboarding lessons for beginners or those looking to improve their skills. Lessons are conducted by certified instructors and can be booked for individuals or groups.

• Beginner lessons
• Advanced lessons
• Group lessons

Additional Inclusions

Depending on the package, you may find additional inclusions such as transportation to and from the ski resorts, meals, equipment storage, or access to resort facilities like spas and hot tubs.

• Transportation
• Meals
• Equipment storage
• Resort facilities

Booking well in advance is advisable, especially during the busy peak ski season New Zealand, to secure availability and take advantage of any early booking discounts. Additionally, always check the cancellation and refund policies in case your plans change unexpectedly.

Summary for the New Zealand Ski Season 2024

In conclusion, a skiing holiday in New Zealand offers an unparalleled combination of stunning scenery, diverse terrain, and world-class facilities.

Unmatched Scenery and Terrain

Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures or serene mountain retreats, New Zealand’s ski season has something for every winter sport enthusiast.

• Stunning scenery
• Diverse terrain
• World-class facilities

All Skill Levels Welcome

From beginners to advanced skiers, New Zealand’s ski resorts cater to all skill levels with a range of terrain and lesson options.

• Beginner-friendly slopes
• Advanced runs
• Certified instructors

Plan and Book Early

To make the most of your ski season New Zealand experience, plan and book early. This ensures you secure the best deals and availability for your preferred dates and accommodations.

• Early booking discounts
• Secure availability
• Best deals

If you have your own stories or skiing experiences, please share them in the comments section below. And if you find this guide helpful, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button for more tips and updates!