100% Customisable NZ Ski Packages
Are you ready for an epic adventure on the slopes of New Zealand's stunning ski resorts? Look no further. At Ski New Zealand, we specialise in crafting tailor-made ski holiday packages covering the best ski-fields around Queenstown, Wanaka and Mt. Hutt. So whether you're a beginner seeking your first taste of snow, or a seasoned pro ready for heli-skiing thrills, our Wanaka based team of ski and snowboard experts will create the best package for you.
Start Planning Your New Zealand Ski Holiday Today
2024 was an epic season for snow in New Zealand, with perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding. Lift passes sell out fast here because the experience is truly world-class. Make sure you don’t miss out on your ski passes for 2025! Book with us for a seamless, all-inclusive New Zealand ski holiday. We’ll organise everything – from securing your ski passes, transport to the slopes, and top-notch ski accommodation to unforgettable winter experiences. Let us take care of the details, so you can enjoy a ski holiday you’ll remember forever.
Expertise at Your Fingertips: Our dedicated team of ski and snowboard enthusiasts are based in Wanaka – we’re locals who know the runs, the cosiest accommodation, the tastiest dining spots, and the best apres-ski activities.
Personalised Packages: We understand that every skier is unique, so we create customised packages to match your skills, preferences and holiday style. Want to conquer multiple ski fields, try different accommodations, or add lessons and equipment hire? We sort it all so you don’t have to.
Make your New Zealand ski holiday perfect with our real ski and snowboard experts by your side: We’re spoilt for choice with our NZ ski fields; Coronet Peak, the Remarkables, Snow Farm, Treble Cone, Roundhill, Mt. Dobson, Mt. Hutt… there’s something for everyone.
Ski New Zealand is different because we take the time to get to know your group - from ability level to accommodation and transport preferences, and of course, whether you’re more into the backcountry or the mulled wine (or somewhere in between)!
We've got you covered every step of the way. Our website is loaded with valuable information, FAQs, blogs, and tips to help you make the most of your New Zealand ski holiday.
Save More By Booking Early
Ready to hit the slopes? Booking your New Zealand ski holiday early can save you big bucks. Take advantage of earlybird discounts by booking before the Christmas rush. Planning ahead and securing your ski package in advance can result in incredible savings, allowing you to make the most of your budget and get the best deal possible.
Get Your Preferred Accommodation
New Zealand is a sought-after destination for skiing enthusiasts, and our ski fields in South Islands offer unparalleled experiences. With stunning winter weather and breathtaking scenery, it's no wonder that ski hotels fill up quickly. By booking your ski holiday now, you can ensure that you secure your preferred accommodation, flights, and rental car, so you can rest easy knowing that everything is sorted and you can focus on enjoying your ski adventure to the fullest. Contact our Ski Specialists who will make the process a breeze!
Something to Look Forward to!
There's nothing quite like the feeling of knowing that your ski holiday is booked and you have an amazing adventure to look forward to. Having a week or two of thrilling skiing or snowboarding in the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand on the horizon can make any challenges that come your way seem more manageable. It's a tantalising prospect that will keep you motivated and excited as you count down the days until your ski holiday.
Why New Zealand?
When it comes to skiing, why not choose New Zealand? With convenient flights from Australia to major airports in New Zealand, you can easily access the heart of the adventure country. From incredible skiing or snowboarding adventures to a wide range of thrilling activities, delectable local cuisine, and awe-inspiring scenery, New Zealand has it all. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a beginner, a ski holiday in New Zealand promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to have an incredible ski holiday in New Zealand. Book early to save, secure your preferred accommodation, and have something amazing to look forward to. With easy access, stunning landscapes, and thrilling adventures, New Zealand is a premier destination for ski enthusiasts. You can even fit in visits to renowned New Zealand destinations such as Milford Sound or Franz Josef Glacier. So, pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable skiing adventure in the land of breathtaking beauty. Speak with our locally based Ski Specialists based in the heart of the South Island’s Wanaka, today.
If you want to see view tours that are not solely based around skiing - check out our sister website Discover New Zealand. We can always add some days skiing to the tours on here!
1. Lose the ice
Make sure your front and back windscreens, as well as your passenger and driver windows and mirrors, are completely free of ice before heading out in the morning. Use an ice scraper - steer clear of hot water as this can crack your windscreen.
HOT TIP #1: start your car 15 minutes before you leave and let your de-misters do their thing
HOT TIP #2: if you’re struggling to get rid of the ice, try leaving a towel or some cardboard on your windscreen overnight to stop it icing over.
2. Take it slow
Winter can often mean ice on the road, especially at higher elevations. Slow down and drive with caution, leaving a safe driving distance between you and the car in front.
HOT TIP #3: if you find yourself slipping on some road ice, stay calm! Ease your foot off the accelerator and allow the car to slow itself down, try to keep the steering wheel straight and allow the car to pass over the ice.
3. Be prepared
The weather in New Zealand can change quickly, especially in winter. Always be prepared when driving and make sure you carry snow chains in your car in case they need to be fitted.
HOT TIP #4: if you’re driving up the mountains for a day’s skiing there will often be a patrol at the bottom of the access road checking that you have chains in your car. If you don’t you may be turned around, save yourself the hassle and always carry chains.
4. Be patient
This applies to driving in general but is especially applicable when driving up ski field access roads. There will most likely be a lot of tourists on the road who are unfamiliar with the conditions – drive slowly and only overtake if it is 100% safe to do so.
HOT TIP #5: if you spot a large line of cars behind you, pull over at a safe location (only if there is a safe spot) to allow them to pass. You will feel more comfortable driving without a line of impatient drivers behind you and other road users will be grateful.
5. Shuttles are your friend
If you are feeling especially nervous about driving up the mountain in winter, take driving out of the equation and catch a bus or shuttle instead. The shuttle drivers have years of experience driving in winter conditions, so you can just relax and enjoy the view!
If you’ve never taken a spring skiing holiday, it’s about time to seriously consider it. September is arguably one of the best times to ski in New Zealand. With the longer days, milder temperatures, and the pre-summer excitement in the air, spring skiing offers a unique and enjoyable experience that you won’t find during the peak winter months. The blend of fantastic weather, quieter slopes, and great deals make spring the perfect time to hit the mountains. If you need a little extra convincing, here are our top 5 reasons why spring skiing is the best!
The Mountains Are Quieter
One of the biggest draws of spring skiing in New Zealand is that since it's not considered the 'peak' of the season, the slopes are way quieter! The bustling crowds of July and August are gone, and many families have already had their winter break. This means you can expect much quieter ski fields in September. Picture this: no more battling for a spot on the chairlift, fewer people on the trails, easier car parking opportunities, and wide-open spaces where you can carve out your own path.
With fewer skiers and snowboarders on the mountain, you’ll also find that lift lines are significantly shorter. Gone are the days of standing in line, watching the minutes tick by as you wait for your turn to head back up the mountain. In spring, you can spend more time doing what you love – skiing! You might even have entire runs to yourself, especially if you’re an early riser or prefer skiing during off-peak hours.
Another perk of quieter slopes is the availability of fresh groomers well into the afternoon. During the busy winter months, groomed runs can quickly become tracked out and icy by midday. However, in spring, you’ll often find that the grooming holds up much longer, allowing you to enjoy smooth, buttery snow throughout the day. This is especially true if you’re skiing at one of New Zealand’s higher-altitude resorts, such as Treble Cone or The Remarkables, where the snow quality tends to remain more consistent as the day progresses.
The Sun Is Here To Stay
Spring skiing in New Zealand comes with the added bonus of fantastic weather. As the days grow longer and the sun becomes more intense, you’ll be treated to bluebird days and milder temperatures that make for a much more comfortable experience on the mountain. Gone are the bone-chilling winds and freezing temperatures of mid-winter – instead, you can expect plenty of sunshine and pleasant conditions that make skiing a joy.
One of the best parts about spring skiing is the ability to shed some of your heavy winter gear. Say goodbye to bulky jackets, thick gloves, and layers upon layers of thermals. Instead, you can hit the slopes in a light jacket, a hoodie, or even just a t-shirt on some days! The warmer temperatures mean you won’t have to bundle up as much, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable day on the mountain. Some adventurous skiers and snowboarders even take it a step further, embracing the spring vibes by hitting the slopes in board shorts or other fun, summer-inspired attire. There’s something undeniably refreshing about feeling the warm sun on your skin as you carve through the snow – it’s a unique experience that you can only get during the spring months.
You Can Ski The Slush!
For some, the idea of skiing slush might not sound all that appealing – especially if you’re a die-hard powder hound who lives for those deep, fluffy days. But for anyone looking for a good time on the slopes, skiing slush can be some of the most fun you’ll have all season. In fact, some skiers and snowboarders even argue that slush is more enjoyable than powder! Spring snow is often described as "hero snow" because of its forgiving nature. It’s soft, smooth, and slow, making it ideal for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced rider looking to hone your skills, you’ll find that spring slush is easy to navigate and incredibly fun to ride. Plus, the slower pace means you can really focus on perfecting your turns and trying out new tricks without the fear of wiping out on icy, hard-packed snow.
Another great thing about spring skiing is that the end of winter doesn’t necessarily mean the end of powder days. In fact, spring can bring some of the best powder days of the season, especially if you’re skiing at a resort with higher elevations. Late-season storms can dump fresh snow on the mountains, giving you the opportunity to enjoy deep powder runs well into September. So, while you’ll likely spend most of your time skiing slush, don’t be surprised if you find yourself hitting the deep stuff on one of those elusive spring powder days.
Skiing slush is also a great way to work on your technique. The softer snow allows you to make smoother, more controlled turns, which can help you build confidence and improve your overall skiing or snowboarding skills. Plus, because slush is more forgiving than harder, icier snow, it’s easier to recover from mistakes – making it a great environment for learning and progression.
Learning is easier
If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, or if you’re looking to improve your skills, spring is the perfect time to hit the slopes. As we’ve already mentioned, the slushy spring snow is ideal for learning. Its soft, slow, and forgiving nature makes it much easier to get the hang of skiing or snowboarding without the fear of falling on hard, icy snow. For beginners, this means that you can take your time learning the basics, building up your confidence as you go. The slower pace of spring skiing allows you to focus on mastering your technique, whether that’s learning how to make your first turns, stopping confidently, or getting comfortable with different types of terrain. Spring is also a great time to take lessons or join a ski school. With fewer people on the mountain, you’ll have more one-on-one time with instructors, allowing for more personalized attention and faster progress. Many ski schools also offer discounted rates in the spring, making it an affordable time to learn or refine your skills.
If you're new to skiing and snowboarding and are looking for the best packages for beginners, check out our Learn to Ski New Zealand packages. These packages are often recommended to be taken in the spring season, so it's the perfect time to book in!
Intermediate and advanced skiers can also benefit from the unique conditions that spring skiing offers. The slushy snow can help you work on your carving technique, as it’s easier to dig your edges into the soft snow and make clean, controlled turns. Additionally, because the snow is slower, it’s a great time to practice more technical skills, such as mogul skiing, jumping, or tackling steeper terrain. Spring skiing provides a low-pressure environment where you can push your limits and take your abilities to the next level.
Everything is cheaper
If the thought of a more relaxed and enjoyable skiing experience hasn’t convinced you, then the savings might just do the trick. One of the best things about spring skiing in New Zealand is that it’s significantly cheaper than skiing during the peak winter months. As the season winds down, resorts, hotels, and airlines all offer discounts and deals to attract the last wave of skiers and snowboarders – and this means you can score some serious bargains. For starters, lift tickets are often discounted in spring, allowing you to spend more time on the mountain without breaking the bank. Some resorts even offer special spring passes or multi-day deals that make it even more affordable to ski during this time of year. In addition to lift tickets, you’ll also find discounts on rental equipment, lessons, and even food and drinks at the mountain’s cafes and restaurants.
Accommodation is another area where you can save big during a spring ski holiday. With fewer tourists flocking to the ski towns, hotels and lodges often lower their rates to attract guests. This means you can stay in some of New Zealand’s most popular ski destinations – such as Queenstown, Wanaka, or Methven – for a fraction of the price you’d pay during the peak season. Plus, with the quieter atmosphere, you’ll have a better chance of scoring a room with a stunning view or staying in a more luxurious hotel that might have been out of your budget during the winter months.
Finally, spring is also a great time to take advantage of end-of-season sales on ski gear. Whether you’re in the market for a new pair of skis, a snowboard, or some stylish winter clothing, you’ll find that many retailers offer significant discounts as they clear out their winter stock to make room for summer gear. This is the perfect opportunity to upgrade your equipment or snag some new gear at a fraction of the price.
If you're looking at skiing on a budget, check out our Ski Package deals here!
Wrap Up
Spring skiing in New Zealand is an experience like no other. With quieter slopes, fantastic weather, fun and forgiving snow conditions, and incredible deals, it’s the perfect time to plan your ski holiday. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or snowboarder or just starting out, you’ll find that spring offers a unique and enjoyable experience that’s hard to beat.
So why wait? Speak with our Travel Specialists today and book your spring ski holiday now, and discover for yourself why September is the best time to hit the mountains in New Zealand.
Always stay in control
If you’ve never skied before, take a few lessons and get confident. If it’s been a while, ease yourself back onto the snow with a few easy runs. Know how to stop and avoid other people and obstacles, and ensure that you are skiing terrain where you are always capable of maintaining control.
Give way to people downhill
Downhill skiers and snowboarders have right of way - be sure that you leave enough space to avoid people below you. If you are entering a ski run, don't forget to look up to be sure you won’t be cutting anyone off.
Obey all ski field signage
Signs are there for a reason. If a run is closed, don’t go down it. If you reach the ski area boundary, stop. The snow patrol team spend their days ensuring that any runs with hazards or too little snow are closed to the public to avoid any unnecessary dangers, help the patrol team and stay safe - respect the signs.
Check before you charge
If you are in the park or jumping off natural features, ski with a spotter and be sure that your landing area is clear of any people or hazards before you hit a jump. If someone falls on a jump or feature, raise your arms or ski poles in a cross to alert others until the person has cleared the area.
Stop in a visible area
If you need to stop on the ski field, move to the side of the run and make sure you are clearly visible from above. Be sure that you don’t stand underneath a jump and don’t stop right in the centre of a ski run – respect other users and make yourself easily visible and avoidable.
Don’t lose your gear
Respect the other visitors and the environment when you are out on the mountain. Keep track of all your equipment and be sure to carry and store your gear securely. Don’t leave anything lying around and dispose of any rubbish properly, either in a designated bin or by taking it off the hill with you.
Don’t leave an accident
If you witness an accident or are involved in one, stay on the scene until snow patrol arrives. Be respectful and don’t leave until the snow patrol team has asked any questions they need to be answered in relation to the incident.
Follow these ski field safety essentials so that you can enjoy every minute of your snowy adventures to the maximum, without unnecessary risk!
Now we have that out of the way, let’s work up from the bottom, starting with our poor, often neglected, feet.
1. Socks
Thin, warm, long socks made from wool are the best option for skiing and snowboarding. Ski/snowboard boots are designed to keep your feet warm and well insulated, so big thick socks aren’t necessary. Be sure your socks fit well and aren’t going to fall and wrinkle in your boot as this can lead to blisters.
- Hot Tip #1: If your feet are getting cold it’s often because your boots are a fraction too tight. Try giving your feet a tiny bit more wiggle room and it should help with foot chill, this is a really important tip - especially for first timers!
2. Base Layers
Your winter base layer is super important, a good, moisture wicking base layer makes a world of difference in the snow. Again, wool or a synthetic fibre is the best option – you’ll want a thin pants layer and at least one long-sleeved top layer.
- Hot Tip #2: If you feel really feel the cold, consider doubling up on your top base layer (you can always take the extra layer off if you get too warm).
3. Mid Layer
Your mid layer is your second layer of defence against the cold. A fleece layer is the best option for your mid layer – very warm, light, breathable and comfortable. Consider a jacket with a zip so you can undo it if you start to get too warm.
4. Outer Layers
You will want a waterproof outer layer for both your jacket and pants. Most ski fields have an option to hire these which is a great way to keep the cost down! Look for jackets with lots of pockets to hold your gear and a hood for those cold snowy days.
Be sure your outer pants are insulated and waterproof, there’s a good chance you’ll be spending a fair bit of time on your bum so the extra insulation will help to keep out the cold.
- Hot Tip #3: DO NOT wear jeans. They will get wet, they will get heavy, they will get cold. So unless you fancy resembling a sodden overgrown sloth, leave your jeans at home.
5. Gloves
Gloves are a must - frostbite is a real threat if you don’t wear gloves. Go for a thin glove liner underneath a thick Gore-tex or leather glove, Gore-tex is the cheaper option but still highly effective.
6. Goggles
Snow is bright, and snow blindness is not a joke, get some goggles. No need to spend a fortune, goggles start at around NZ$40 for adults and they are well worth it. If it’s a warm, sunny day, a good pair of sunglasses will do the trick as well.
7. Helmet
Notice how your head cover has been referred to as a ‘helmet’, not a ‘hat’. That’s because skiing and snowboarding are sports and they come with risks.
99% of the time you won’t hurt yourself when you fall because you don’t have far to go and the snow is generally nice and soft. Protect your head against that 1% and wear a helmet. These can be hired from any ski field for as low as $10 a day – well worth it to protect your noggin from any potential harm! For all inclusive New Zealand ski packages (rentals, lift pass & car hire) or customised options, contact our local ski experts.
8. Extra Bits
- Sunscreen: snow is basically one giant reflector so layer up on the sunscreen to avoid getting burnt.
- Neckwarmer: on cold days a neckwarmer will do wonders in keeping you toasty. Wind chill can make your face very cold very fast – a neckwarmer pulled over your face is a lifesaver.
- Beanie: If you get cold easily or the weather is a bit rough, add a thin beanie under your helmet to keep your head nice and warm
BONUS TIPS
- Carry a backpack so you can add or take away layers when you’re too hot or cold.
- Bring a water bottle and snacks in your backpack – that way you won’t need to stop for as many breaks!
- Carry a spare lens if you have goggles with interchangeable lenses. Different lenses make seeing easier in varying weather conditions.
Last but not least
HAVE FUN! Yes there are a few things to think about leading up to your first ski adventure, but if you are prepared and excited, you will have the time of your life.
A word of warning - skiing is addictive and you will get hooked, so be ready to spend a lot more time on the snow!
If you are looking for some ski-nspiration, browse our popular New Zealand Ski Holidays.
Take on board these 5 essential tips to get the most out of your ski and snowboard lessons:
1. Learn from a Professional
Take it from me, don’t get your first ski lesson from a family member or friend. Even if you think your relationship is 100% indestructible, trust me, it’s not – you’ve never been skiing together before. Skiing is a lot of fun but the enjoyment can be sucked out incredibly quickly when your partner or friend gets bored and frustrated trying to teach you when all they want to do is go fast. Do yourself a favour and get a lesson from a professional snow sports instructor, they are trained to get you skiing confidently in the quickest way possible while ensuring the learning process is both safe and fun!
2. Ignore the Colours
Everybody wants to be hitting up the double black diamond runs like a pro, but try not to get caught up in the different run colours when you’re learning. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, if you’re taking a lesson you will most likely be on green or blue runs, working on perfecting technique and learning new skills, neither of which can be done on the steep (unless you’re tackling moguls!). Effective learning requires a more gentle and easily controllable environment, so trust your instructor when they steer you away from the steep stuff and put your effort into perfecting any flaws in your technique. This way when you do hit those double blacks, you know you will be 100% in control.
3. Understand Yourself
Everybody on the slopes is looking for a slightly different experience, know what you’re after and choose the right lesson accordingly. If you are a sociable person and looking for something a little more laid-back while you’re getting to grips with skiing, go for a group lesson. The learning process in a group is generally a little more relaxed and social. Your instructors are adept at dealing with groups of students and getting everyone skiing together for a fun and effective introduction to the sport.
If you are feeling especially anxious, or are perhaps wanting to work on some specific skills and techniques for your own improvement, you may want to consider booking in for a private lesson. This is a much more intimate learning environment and gives the opportunity to really focus on improving and paying special attention to any flaws or skills you would like to work on.
HOT TIP: If you’re in a group lesson, be sure to speak up! If there is something you don’t understand, if you’d like to know why you’re learning a specific skill – let your instructor know, they can’t help you if you don’t tell them when you have a problem.
4. Be Honest
The most difficult part of a ski school’s day is line-up, when everyone is being sorted into the right group for their lesson. In order to be placed with the right group of skiers and the best instructor for your needs, you may be asked a few questions about your snow experience. Be honest and don’t try to either up-skill yourself or downplay your experience – you may be asked questions relating to how many days skiing you have had, what sort of terrain you have skied previously, any specific skills you are aiming to work on etc. It is important that you answer honestly so that you are placed with a group and instructor that will be the best fit for your ability and ambitions.
5. Never Stop Learning
That feeling when you first make it all the way down a run without a fall is one of the greatest highs you’ll experience on the snow, but try not to let all that new-found confidence go to your head! One of the great things about skiing and snowboarding is that there is always more to learn, always harder terrain to conquer, and always the opportunity to go just that little bit faster. Embrace everything about the sport and aim to continue developing your skills. The more you learn, the more enjoyable the snow is – take an extra lesson, book into a development clinic, continue pushing yourself that little bit further every time you’re on the mountain and you will have found a sport that will keep you blissfully happy for decades to come!
With multiple day options available, spend your snow days exploring 850 hectares of the best skiing and snowboarding terrain in New Zealand. The perfect lift pass for the ultimate flexibility for your holiday – ski and snowboard a range of terrain, from nice easy learner’s slopes and smooth groomed runs, to challenging, steep powder stashes, terrain parks and half pipes!
Need to know more about the resorts? Here's a bit more about Cardrona and Treble Cone so you know what to expect at each ski field:
Cardrona
A great ski field boasting a Chondola (chairlift crossed with a gondola) to get you up the hill and on the snow even faster. Cardrona Resort is a great option for families, with excellent kids facilities both for childcare and ski school, Cardrona has a variety of restaurants and cafes and excellent on snow progression options for beginner and advanced skiers and snowboarders alike.
Cardrona is also home to some of the best park facilities in the Southern Hemisphere, with a long park line showcasing a multitude of different features, including 3 different sized jump lines to aid in progression. Cardrona features an Olympic superpipe, an International Halfpipe, as well as the massive (25 metre) Big Air. With plenty of other varied terrain to work on your freeriding skills, Cardrona is a great mountain for park rats wanting to level up over winter.
Treble Cone
Queenstown and Wanaka locals have been committed to Treble Cone for years and for good reason. Treble Cone plays host to some true alpine terrain, with bowls and chutes a hot feature for adventure lovers and some excellent hiking terrain available for the die-hards. With the steeper terrain a key feature, this is a resort for the more experienced – however, Treble Cone does have an excellent learners slope that you can ski on.
Get Fit Before You Go
Remember, skiing is a sport. You don’t need to be an Olympian to enjoy it but, like with any physical activity, you are likely to enjoy your days more if you have a base level of fitness. No need to head out and run a marathon though! Work yourself up to your holiday by going for some nice long walks or bike rides, and work some leg exercises into your daily routine to strengthen those skiing muscles. A bit of extra work will make a big difference for those first few days on the snow and your body will thank you for it.
Buy Your Lift Pass Early
Save time and purchase your lift passes before you head off on your holiday, time saved in queues is more time spent on the snow! Be sure to do your research as well, for your first time skiing you won’t need a lift pass for the whole ski field for the first few days – save a few dollars with a learners lift ticket and work your way up to the rest of the mountain.
Make Sure You Dress Right
If you can borrow ski clothes for your first trip, do it! Check out our what to wear blog for more ideas! Ski clothing is expensive so you’re much better off hiring or borrowing clothes for the first trip. A warm base layer is also super important, a woollen long sleeve top and pants are your best protection against the snow, be sure you layer up well, taking layers off when you're too warm is easy, trying to find more layers when you're cold and standing on top of a mountain...not so easy!
Extra Accessories You Will Need
On top of your outer wear you will also need some form of eye protection. Ski goggles are best, especially in the colder weather, but a good pair of sunglasses will work as well. Sun screen is a must, it may be cold but the snow acts like a giant reflective surface and means you will burn much faster than usual. This goes for your lips to, get a heavy duty lip balm with some sunscreen to stop any lip burn. A good pair of gloves is essential, there’s nothing worse than cold hands, a thin glove liner underneath thick ski gloves will do the job nicely. Finally, make sure you buy, borrow or hire a helmet – skiing is a lot of fun, but there is always the chance of a collision or fall. If you don’t want your holiday ruined by a bump on the head, be smart, stay safe and get a helmet!
Get the Right Equipment
It’s your first time on the snow and ski equipment is extremely pricey – do yourself a financial favour and rent all your gear. When getting fitted for your ski boots be sure that they fit well without any pain or discomfort. If you feel the boots you’ve been given don’t quite fit right, take the time to ensure you have a pair that feel good, your feet will thank you.
Ski Lessons are a Must for Beginners.
You can always tell on the hill who has taken the time to have a lesson and who hasn’t. For all inclusive New Zealand ski lesson packages (rentals and lift pass) or customised options, contact Ski New Zealand. Those who took a lesson are skiing down the mountain with confidence, laughing and smiling with their family, those who didn’t are on the ground, skis off, close to tears. If you don’t want to spend your whole holiday in a lesson, that’s fine too – look at the possibility of taking a few half day lessons, just be sure that before you go out on your own, you have learned to control your speed, stop, and turn confidently. Lessons are not just about learning to ski or snowboard, they are also about safety. Your instructor will teach you about the Alpine Responsibility Code and how to enjoy the mountain in a safe manner. Lessons will ensure you are on your way to fully enjoy your skiing experience sooner.
HOT TIP #1: It’s tempting for a family with young children to leave the kids in ski school every day. For some children, this is a great option, but know your kids and know their limits. Only give them as much skiing as they can handle or they will wind up hating it. Let the kids choose how much skiing they want to do, this way it will stay fun.
Get a Ride up the Hill
If you’ve never driven in winter conditions it can be scary. Take that nervousness out of the equation by booking a bus or shuttle to get you up and down the hill, the drive to and from the ski field will be much more relaxing and allow you to fully enjoy your days on the snow.
What to Expect for Your First Few Days
It may be tough, it may be cold, but you will have a blast! After two or three days you can expect to be skiing down the beginners slopes with confidence. After a few days if you are feeling good, you may be ready to tackle your first blue run. Be patient, take the time to learn and don’t push yourself too far too fast. Skiing is like anything else, you need to walk before you can run.
HOT TIP #2: If you’re skiing with friends or family who are experienced, try to resist the temptation to ski with them as soon as you make it down your first run. You may have been hit with the awesome stick and take to skiing like a fish to water, but it is more likely that it will take some time to get confident. Going too big too soon will most likely knock your confidence and make it difficult to continue to enjoy the sport. Only do as much as you are comfortable with, you’ve got plenty of time to get better so take it slow.
Don’t Forget
Have fun! Skiing is an incredible sport with so many options for learning and exploring. Ease into it slowly and give yourself plenty of time for learning and you’ll be heli-skiing and venturing into the backcountry before you know it! If you are looking for some inspiration, browse our popular New Zealand Ski Holidays.
Get Fit, Get Strong
Skiing is a lot of fun, and when you’re mucking about in the snow you can sometimes forget that you’re participating in a high intensity sport. Muscles that rarely get used will be pushed, and at the same time your body will be dealing with the higher altitudes and colder weather. Ensuring you are fit and strong will greatly enhance your enjoyment of the sport, allow you to continue developing your skills and help to prevent injury. The key areas to focus your attention on are core strength, leg strength and agility. Balance is also crucial for skiing and snowboarding and including some training on tools like balance boards will greatly assist in the development of your core strength and improve balance.
Get the Right Gear
Ski technology has developed rapidly over the last few decades, and there is a wealth of different equipment options to choose from. Before you buy or upgrade your gear, have a think about what sort of skiing you will be doing: on-piste, backcountry, terrain park - a combination of them all? There is equipment for every style of skiing and the sales reps in ski shops are very knowledgeable, they will be able to help to ensure that you get the right gear to suit your skill level and the terrain you want to ride. (Bare in mind that most insurance will only cover injury occurring on-piste)
Get a Lesson
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced skier, there is always improvement to be made and further instruction can help enormously. Lessons are not just for learning to stop; higher-level progression clinics will allow you to focus on really developing your technique and give you the chance to pick out and work on any problem areas that you are struggling with. Another extremely useful learning tool is the increasing availability of instructors’ courses. Instructor training is geared towards solidifying, developing and learning how to teach basic technique and you will be amazed at how much your skiing improves when you focus is on breaking down the basics.
Get Someone to Video You
Watching yourself on video can be an amazing tool when it comes to improving. A video of yourself will allow you to pick out any flaws in technique, giving you a much better understanding of your performance and showing where you need to make changes in order to achieve more dynamic, fluid and effective body movements.
Get Out There With People Who Will Push You
Be sure you continue to challenge yourself. Find more advanced skiers and head out for a shred with them. Riding with people who are more advanced is a great way to push your boundaries and force yourself to improve on difficult terrain. Keep your eyes open, watch and learn from how they tackle a run and try to keep up through foreign territory. Tackle your problem areas, if you struggle through deep powder, follow a friend and try to stick to the same line. Having difficulty carving? Head out on some fresh groomers with someone who can carve it up with the best of them, and do your best to stick to their tracks. Be sure not to push yourself too far too fast though – if you have been confidently skiing blue runs on-piste, don’t expect to be able to keep up with a double-black skier off-piste. Challenge yourself but be sure to know the limits of what you can tackle safely.
Get Focussed & Set Goals
Set goals and stick to them. If you’re determined to nail a specific trick in the park, or there’s a particularly tricky run you want to be able to ski by the end of winter, then have weekly goals to help you achieve that. Don’t over-step too far too fast, set manageable goals that you are confident you can achieve, this way you will be able to keep challenging yourself and keep stepping up. You will be skiing stronger, harder and more efficiently week to week with a constant sense of satisfaction and achievement. Don’t stop driving to be better - the beauty of snow sports is that there is no end to your development, there’s always a bigger cliff to drop and a steeper line to ski, you just need to keep pushing.
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