New Zealand is renowned for its snowy landscapes, stellar ski fields and après ski activities, but how do you decide what to do? Here’s a guide to making the most of the winter season when visiting New Zealand.
FOR SKIING
Both North Island and South Island offer incredible ski fields.
The heart of the North Island’s ski region, Ruapehu is a winter lover’s paradise. The location of Whakapapa, New Zealand’s largest ski area and the wild, mighty, playful Turoa – both these ski fields offer runs aplenty and terrain for beginners or the adrenaline seekers. Turoa claims the country’s longest vertical drop at a whopping 722m, as well as the highest chairlift, offering panoramic views of the North Island. Whakapapa features the Sky Waka, the longest gondola in the country, delivering you to a multitude of slopes across the 550 hectare field, and offering some of the best beginner terrain in the country at the aptly named Happy Valley.
The alpine environment of the South Island offers various options for skiers of all levels. You can’t miss Canterbury’s Mt Hutt, which has the longest season in New Zealand. One of the largest and highest, plus a new chairlift that carries 8 people, the Nor’West Express means less time waiting and more time on the slopes. Porters, Broken River, Hanmer Springs and more will keep you satisfied with brand new runs.
Queenstown and Wanaka round out the South Island offerings, regions known for their exceptional slopes. The five commercial fields in the far South Island are some of the best places to ski in the country; the Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Cardrona and Treble Cone. State of the art chairlifts, cruising groomed runs, playful super pipes and spectacular views make for a fun day of play no matter where you choose.
OTHER WINTER ACTIVITIES
For hiking…
Ditch the skis and grab your hiking boots for the rewarding feeling of scaling a mountain to reach great heights and views. Head far South for the snowy tracks of Ben Lomond or Queenstown Hill and mountainous panoramas. Rakaia Gorge walkway is a good option for a down day near the Canterbury fields, alongside the turquoise waters of the Rakaia River. If you’re after a hike with less snow, head north to Cape Brett for milder temperatures. The mid north options like Tongariro Crossing and Tama Lakes are for the experienced hikers. Joining a guided alpine hike is a good option given things can get icy in winter. Wherever you head, make sure you’re prepared with snacks, water, and plenty of layers for the dropping temperatures.
For adventure…
If you’ve got a need for speed, Queenstown Snowmobiles take you to the mountains for a thrilling cruise through high altitude snow. New Zealand’s only heli-snowmobiling is action packed and adrenaline pumping or can be slowed down to enjoy the epic views, this is an adventure tailored to suit your winter holiday and has been awarded Qualmark Gold for outstanding service.
For a journey…
One of the best train journeys in the world, the TranzAlpine is the ultimate way to travel from Christchurch on the east coast to Greymouth on the west, and it’s an adventure in itself. Gliding through open valleys and vast farmland of the Canterbury Plains before entering the towering mountain range of the Southern Alps in Arthur’s Pass National Park. Snow-capped and glistening, the mountains are reflected in chilly lakes surrounded by frosted tussocks. As the snow dissipates it’s replaced by the wild beech forest of the West Coast, where the view outside is lit vibrant green by the canopies of dense, towering flora as you arrive at your coastal destination.
For leisure…
With a fresh chill in the air making it feel like a winter wonderland, the best place to witness the scenery is from inside the comfort of a mineral filled hot tub. There are a range to choose from around the in secluded, remote locations, including some spectacular hot pools in Rotorua, that attract incredible vistas by day and dazzling stars by night. The perfect alternative from a day on the slopes, or the ultimate end to a day on the mountain.