Ski the South Island Tour

Ski New Zealand have a superb range of cars suitable for winter driving in New Zealand. With a range of inclusions like ski racks, and snow chains that will suit your winter holiday perfectly. First time driving in New Zealand winter? Check out our helpful tips!

Queenstown is the perfect destination for your winter ski or snowboarding holiday. Immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery, exhilarating adventures, and endless off-slope activities. We recommend you collect your NZSki MyPass Card prior to arriving on the mountain to avoid the morning queues, leaving you more time to ski and ride. You can collect your MyPass Card at the Queenstown Snow Centre located at 25 Shotover St. All of your lift passes, rental equipment, lessons and shuttle transfers will be loaded onto your card. If you are unable to visit Guest Services and collect your MyPass in advance, please scan the barcode in your Order Confirmation at the Self-Service Kiosks located in the base buildings at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Mt Hutt or in the Queenstown Snow Centre. The kiosk will print MyPass cards for your entire group, allowing you to head straight to the lifts!

The New Zealand Superpass is the most flexible lift pass in New Zealand, giving you access to Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Mt Hutt along with Snowplanet, Turoa, Whakapapa, Porters, Roundhill, Mt Dobson, and Ohau ski areas. Get more choice, more fun, and more snow time with your New Zealand Superpass, and make the most of your New Zealand holiday!
With 6 days of New Zealand Superpasses, you've got lift access to New Zealand's premier ski areas plus the fun and excitement of a range of off-mountain attractions around New Zealand. You can mix it up a little and ski a day at the different alpine resorts or maybe you've got your eye on a run that you want to conquer over 6 days. Want to ski a little longer, don't own your own gear or snow clothing, or not sure if your skills are up to scratch? No worries, chat to us about adding additional days, rentals, or lessons.

The Remarkables offers a laid-back atmosphere which is fantastic for families and those new to skiing or snowboarding. Located just 45 minutes from Queenstown, the Remarkables features a fantastic network of trails with wide, gentle slopes for beginners of all ages and big mountain runs for the experts in the family. With 30% beginner slopes, 40% intermediate and 30% advanced, the Remarkables offers challenges for all levels. For those wanting to progress quickly, the friendly team of instructors can be with you every step of the way. While you're up there don't forget to check out the purpose-built snow tubing lanes before you round off with a steaming hot chocolate or drink at Remarkables cafe. With regular shuttles from Queenstown, lessons for 4yrs+ and complete gear hire on the mountain, this is a fun and easy day out for visitors to the South Island.

The drive from Queenstown to Coronet Peak is a scenic 20-kilometer journey taking around 20-30 minutes. Follow Gorge Road through Arthurs Point, then turn left onto Coronet Peak Road, which winds up to the resort. Allow extra time during peak season, check road conditions beforehand, and consider the ski bus for a hassle-free trip. The road to the ski field is a sealed alpine road, snow chains must be carried. Don't forget to enjoy the stunning mountain and lake views along the way!

Want to challenge yourself on exciting terrain in some of the best conditions in the Southern Hemisphere?  Then Coronet Peak should be top of your list. This theme park created by mother nature offers gripping trails and extensive snowmaking facilities, making for complete snow coverage on multiple trails. Coronet is also home to night skiing for a different take on these roller coaster trails try it under lights. For those just getting to know the snow the dedicated learner and novice areas make finding your snow feet easy and all gear can be hired on the mountain. With 25% beginner slopes, 45% intermediate, and 30% advanced, Coronet Peak has the trail for you.  For a break from the snow, enjoy live music at the base building, or wet your whistle with a hot chocolate or cold beverage at Heidi's Hut. The pizza and pasta meals are great for warming you up and giving you an energy boost for the afternoon. 

Head out of Queenstown and over New Zealand's highest sealed road, Crown Range Road before dropping into Wanaka. Take it easy as this road can be a little 'interesting' in winter. There are plenty of signs advising the road conditions and there is a slightly longer but lower altitude route via Cromwell. If you do take the Crown Range route then you should time your trip to stop at the Cardrona Hotel for 'sustenance'. This 'world famous in New Zealand' landmark will have some great food and a welcoming log fire.

If you feel like spoiling yourself and learning about the area's history we recommend taking yourself out for lunch or dinner at The Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic hotels which sits between Queenstown and Wanaka on the stunning Crown Range Road. Nestled in a beautiful mountain valley, the town of Cardrona boasts a rich and vibrant history: settled in the 1860s as hundreds of hopeful prospectors flooded into the valley chasing gold, the Cardrona Hotel was one of four hotels quickly established to offer accommodation, food, livery services and a coaching-stop for miners and travellers. With the short-lived gold mining boom beginning to wind down in the late 1800s, the area quietened down, with the Cardrona Hotel eventually becoming the sole remaining hotel in the valley. In more recent times the township of Cardrona has seen a resurgence in visitors, people clamouring to get a taste of old the old town feel, stopping in for a pint or delicious meal and a few fantastic photo opportunities in the quaint village that harkens back to a time of hope, gold and good fortune.

Cardrona is New Zealand's fun and family-friendly ski resort with the most reliable snow conditions in the region. Its high elevation and southerly aspect mean dry natural snow is plentiful, which is further enhanced by snowmaking facilities. Cardrona is the perfect place for beginners and intermediates, with NZ's only combined gondola chairlift, easy-to-use surface lifts, specialised beginner packages and plenty of wide open trails spread over three basins. If you're up for a challenge, you'll find it in Arcadia, with secret powder stashes, chutes and cliff drops.
This pass also allows access to Treble Cone Ski Field, the largest ski area in NZ’s South Island It is famous for its long, uncrowded groomed runs, legendary off-piste terrain and unrivalled views over Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. Located just a 35-minute scenic drive from Wanaka and a 90 minute drive from Queenstown via the Crown Range road.

Make your way to the Cardrona Ski Field, passing through the beautiful Cardrona Valley. The 14km Cardrona mountain road is unsealed and offers three parking areas near the base building.  For those looking for a slightly shorter drive, the Valley View car park is available before the summit, though access is only recommended for intermediate skiers.  For your safety, it's essential to carry tire chains at all times when driving on mountain roads, as weather and road conditions can change rapidly.
You may like to consider riding the free mountain shuttles. Ideal for those unfamiliar with mountain roads, looking to save on fuel, or simply wanting a relaxing ride, the shuttles require no bookings. Park at the designated lot located approx. 1km from the base of the mountain road and hop on the next available shuttle.

Located near Queenstown and Wanaka, this ski resort boasts stunning Southern Alps scenery, extensive ski and snowboard terrain, and world-class facilities. Perfect for families, beginners, and seasoned pros, Cardrona offers everything from gentle learner slopes to thrilling freestyle parks and backcountry trails. Enjoy a vibrant après-ski scene and access to 600ha of terrain from 6 chairlifts.

Leaving on Mt Aspiring Road you will drive along the shore of Lake Wanaka to the base of the Treble Cone Ski Field.

Treble Cone, the largest ski area in NZ’s South Island, is famous for its long, uncrowded groomed runs, legendary off-piste terrain, and unrivaled views over Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
Once you know your way around Home Basin, time to head out wide and explore Matukituki Basin, be sure to stop out there and take in the spectacular views of the Southern Alps and down to Lake Wanaka.

Passing through the Clutha River valley you arrive into Tarras just north of Lake Dunstan, a man made lake that is part of the South Islands hydro systems. Bendigo, just off the main highway, was one of Otago’s original gold mining settlements and well marked paths will guide you to explore the remains of stone cottages and other buildings from this bygone era.
The Lindis Pass is one of New Zealand’s highest roads with the summit reaching 971 metres. The tussock covered hills offer an unusual contrast as you pass from Central Otago and onto the Mackenzie Basin. Omarama translates to 'the Place of Light' and the vast open sky offers an explanation to its name. It is also the gliding capital of New Zealand offering some of the best and most challenging terrain in the country to experience this sport.
A short drive from Omarama and you turn into Lake Ohau Road which leads to Lake Ohau Lodge.  Along the way a stop at the High Country Salmon Farm just south of Twizel is recommended.  Here you can sample some of the freshest salmon available and also feed the fish.  Your destination of Ohau is a fantastic base for skiing the Ohau skifield and in summer you can cycle sections of the Alps to Ocean bike trail or explore some of the many hiking tracks in the area.

Ohau Ski Area caters for all skiing and snowboarding abilities and offers a breath-taking backdrop of the Southern Alps and Lake Ohau below.  For beginners, the snow mat takes you to gentle slopes for learning and you can book lessons with the friendly Ohau instructors.  Intermediate skiers and boarders are well looked after with 50% of the terrain graded intermediate.  Take the double chair lift to the top of the mountain where you’ll ride wide flat slopes down the Boulevard with style.  For those looking for more of a challenge, hiking around the tops to access the best powder snow is definitely worth it, not to mention the unbelievable views.  Wanting to practice your tricks there are 2 terrain parks, 1 for beginners and an intermediate/advanced park.  When you’re ready for a break the day lodge is a cosy space with a log burner, large social tables and the onsite café offers great food and coffee.

Follow the lake edge back towards the main road, then turn left towards Tekapo. Your first stop today should be the visitor centre on the southern shores of Lake Pukaki. As well as a great presentation detailing the formation of the region over thousands of years you are also often rewarded with uninterrupted views of over 50 kilometres to the peak of Aoraki Mt Cook (clouds permitting of course).
You will then head south along the spectacular Mt Cook Highway to Mt Cook Village. There are many activities available from scenic ski plane or helicopter flights with glacier landings to kayaking on a glacial lake and a host of walks to suit all abilities. At The Hermitage Hotel the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre is a must see.

Your first stop today should be the visitor centre on the southern shores of Lake Pukaki. As well as a great presentation detailing the formation of the region over thousands of years you are also often rewarded with uninterrupted views of over 50 kilometres to the peak of Aoraki Mt Cook.
Lake Tekapo, the northern most of the large Southern Lakes also the reflective quality that Pukaki has making the waters a bright turquoise on certain days. This busy little township is home to some of the most photographed subjects in the country, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog statue. It's a great place to take a scenic flight, enjoy a guided horse trek, a boat trip on the pristine lake or just enjoy the magnificent views.

Ohau caters for all abilities, with snow ratings of 20% beginner, 50% intermediate and 30% advanced. From the highest point of 1825m, there is a 400m vertical fall to the base via ‘The Boulevard’, which is a wonderful ride for beginners on a safe, groomed trail as wide as a highway. Intermediates can choose the zig-zag ‘Luge’, and experts can push the limits on the ‘High Traverse’ and ‘Escalator’. Ohau can offer exquisite dry powder snow and epic terrain – and will get you away from the tourist trail.

Leaving Lake Tekapo you descend from the high country through Burkes Pass and into rich farmland surrounding the access road to Mt Dobson Ski Area. The 15km access road is maintained to a high standard and it's a 40 minute drive from State Highway 8 to the ski field car park.

This mountain is famous for its all-day sun, stunning scenery, groomed trails and awesome off-piste... what more could you ask for? Mt Dobson or "Dobbo" as it is known to the locals, has that laid-back and friendly Kiwi vibe, along with some cool features like the large natural half-pipe and miles of untracked snow. Mt Dobson is a definite treat for those wanting to explore uncrowded trails. A rope tow, platter, T-Bar and triple chairlift provide access to a variety of intermediate and advanced runs serving 14 trails over an area of 400 hectares.

Heading north east through the fertile regions around Fairlie and Geraldine the drive from Lake Tekapo to Methven takes you along the Inland Scenic Route, a well signposted and recognised alternative to the main highways. The route travels close to the foothills of the Southern Alps before arriving into Methven. The region is renowned for its outdoor adventure and during winter as the hub for activities such as skiing at Mt. Hutt and heli-skiing in the backcountry.

Methven, situated on the Inland Scenic Route 72, is both a summer and winter adventure wonderland.  In winter the small rural village is bustling with people intent on spending as much time on the slopes of Mt Hutt ski field.  When the snow melts, other activities take prominence, including walking, hot pools, hot air-ballooning or jet boating.  Methven provides a good range of eating establishments and is a friendly town to spend some time in during your travels.

Mt Hutt Ski Field is just 26km from Methven. After leaving the Methven township, you will drive a short distance through Canterbury countryside until you reach the well-signposted access road to Mt Hutt ski field. After your day in the snow, you will return to Methven on this same route.

Mt Hutt has been voted New Zealand’s best ski resort for seven years running at the World Ski Awards. A true alpine experience, with wide-open terrain, leg-burning runs, monster snowfalls, and spectacular views. You’ve not skied in New Zealand until you’ve skied Hutt!
Mt Hutt is your go-to for epic freestyle skiing and snowboarding with four terrain park zones featuring jumps and features for all abilities and with the Summit chairlift is an easy way to access great backcountry riding and skiing. 
Mt Hutt offers 365 hectares of skiable terrain for you to explore, with the longest run, a lengthy 2km. With its mixture of 25% beginners, 50% intermediate, and 25% advanced terrain there is a range of trails for everyone to conquer. Food and beverages are available at Sixteen10 Espresso Bar, Ski High Cafe, and Opuke Kai which offers mulled wine and an a la carte experience on the mountain, where you can recharge your batteries for your next run. For visitors to the South Island, it's easy to hire all the gear you need on the mountain, so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm. For the littlies, there is a licensed child's creche for 3 months to 5yrs and a snow sports school for both kids and adults who are finding their snow legs.

Follow the inland scenic route across the Rakaia Gorge taking time to stop and enjoy the spectacular views of the river. The tiny villages of Windwhistle, Glenroy and Glentunnel guide you towards Darfield, a larger agricultural service centre and then onto the city of Christchurch.

Head to Christchurch airport and catch your flight home. If you’re on a late flight take the morning to explore some of Christchurch’s family-friendly activities, including the gondola or right next to the airport the International Antarctic Centre is an interactive and fun experience.

Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Maori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!