Queenstown Ski Holiday Guide
Planning a Queenstown ski holiday?
From choosing when to visit and where to ski to getting up the mountain, finding accommodation and packing for winter, this guide covers the essentials for planning your trip.
With Coronet Peak and The Remarkables close to town, a dedicated Ski Bus service and plenty to experience off the slopes, Queenstown makes it easy to build a ski trip around your time, ability and travel style.
When to Visit
Queenstown's ski season typically runs from late May to October, with the experience changing throughout winter. July and August are at the heart of the season, while May brings the start of winter at Coronet Peak, the June ramps up and September offers longer, warmer spring days. The best time to ski Queenstown depends on the type of trip you're planning.
June
The beginning of the ski season. June is a great option if you want to kick off winter in Queenstown, although early-season terrain and conditions can vary depending on snowfall.
July
Winter is in full swing, with both Coronet Peak and The Remarkables typically operating across their main terrain. July also includes the New Zealand and Australian school holiday periods, so expect the mountains and Queenstown to be busier.
August
August sits in the heart of the ski season and is a popular time for a dedicated Queenstown ski trip. Expect winter conditions, established snow coverage and both mountains operating their regular winter schedules, subject to conditions.
September & Spring
Spring brings longer days, warmer temperatures and softer afternoon snow. It's a great time for relaxed laps, sunny mountain days and making the most of everything Queenstown has to offer beyond skiing.
Coronet Peak
Just 16km from central Queenstown, Coronet Peak is the closest ski area to town. Its varied terrain caters to everyone from first-time skiers and snowboarders through to advanced riders looking for steeper runs and technical terrain.
It's also home to First Tracks from 8am and, on select evenings, Night Ski, making it possible to spend more of your day on snow. Coronet Peak is a great choice if proximity to Queenstown, varied terrain and easy access are priorities for your trip.
The Remarkables
Around 24km from central Queenstown, The Remarkables is known for wide-open terrain, progression, terrain parks and freeride skiing.
Beginners can build confidence on dedicated learning terrain before progressing further around the mountain, while experienced skiers and snowboarders can explore park features, off-piste terrain and challenging chutes.
The Remarkables is a great choice for families, first-timers and riders who want a mountain they can continue exploring as their skills progress.
The good news?
You don't need to choose!
You can easily ski both Coronet Peak and The Remarkables on the same Queenstown ski trip.
The Superpass gives you access to both mountains, so you can explore more terrain with one lift pass.
Getting To The Mountains
You don't need a car to ski Coronet Peak or The Remarkables.
Ski Bus services operate from Queenstown to both mountains during the ski season, making it possible to stay in town and get to the slopes without hiring a vehicle.
Driving gives you additional flexibility, but remember that mountain roads can be affected by winter weather and chain requirements. If you're not comfortable driving in alpine conditions, the Ski Bus is an easy alternative.
Lift Passes & Lessons
Finding the pass Right for you
Coronet Peak and The Remarkables cater to every level, from first-time skiers and snowboarders finding their feet to experienced riders looking for more challenging terrain. Whatever level, you'll find a lift pass, lesson or package to match.
If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, booking a lesson early in your stay is a great way to build confidence and develop the skills to explore more of the mountain. More experienced skiers and riders can also book coaching to refine their technique or take their skiing further.
We reccommend you organise your Lift Passes, Lessons and Rentals before you arrive, as lessons can book out quick - booking some lessons 7+ days ahead with Coronet Peak & The Remarkables can also save you money.
Coronet Peak
Lift Passes & Lessons
The Remarkables
Lift Passes & Lessons
What's on This Winter?
There's plenty happening in Queenstown throughout the ski season, both on and off the mountain.
From Night Ski and mountain events to festivals and winter celebrations in town, checking what's happening before you book can help you get even more out of your trip.
Waterproof Jacket & Pants
Skiing essentials, make sure they're waterproof! Jacket & Pants Rentals are available at Coronet Peak & The Remarkables if you don't have any.
Warm Base & Mid Layers
Warm merino base layers are your go-to's for mountain days - avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture.
Ski/Snowboard Socks
Ski specific socks are thicker than your usual socks, make sure you pack a pair, they'll help you stay comfortable & skiing for longer out on the slopes.
Waterproof Gloves
An essential for a day of skiing & Snowboarding - Gloves or Mittens will work as long as they're waterproof!
Goggles or SUnglasses
The mountain sun is brighter than you'd think especially on those bluebird days. A pair of goggles or sunglasses are going to protect your eyes & make skiing a whole lot easier.
Sunscreen & Lipbalms
Some great additions for your jacket pockets, you'll want to reapply throughout the day.
Ski/Snowboard Equipment
Queenstown has a huge selection of Ski & Snowboard Rental shops in Queenstown for you to pick from. After something convenient? You can grab a rental up the mountain at Coronet Peak & The Remarkables.
Helmet
Your most important piece of equipment. Helmets are available with Ski & Snowboard rentals or bring your own!
Backpack
Not essential but handy to bring especially if you're travelling with a group. Bring one bag and pop all the stuff you won't need while skiiing in.
Where to Stay
For most ski holidays, staying in Queenstown gives you the easiest access to both Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, as well as restaurants, activities, nightlife and transport options once you're off the mountain.
Central Queenstown is convenient if you don't have a car and want restaurants and attractions within walking distance.
Staying slightly outside the town centre can offer more space and may suit families or groups travelling with a vehicle. If you're planning on more days at The Remarkables, Frankton, Hanleys Farm and Jacks Point are great places to base yourself for easy access.
Thinking more days at Coronet Peak? Then Arrotown, Queenstown, Lake Hayes and Frankton are also great options for easily getting to the Peak.
When choosing accommodation, consider how you'll get to the mountains each morning. If you're planning to use the Ski Bus, check your nearest departure point before booking.
How Many Days SHould I stay?
For most visitors, four to seven days in Queenstown gives you a good balance of skiing and time to explore beyond the slopes. A longer stay gives you flexibility around mountain weather and lets you experience both Coronet Peak and The Remarkables without needing to ski every day.
3-4 Days
Best for a short winter getaway. Plan for one or two ski days and leave some time to experience Queenstown.
5-7 Days
A great length for a dedicated ski holiday. You'll have time to ski both Queenstown mountains, revisit your favourite and enjoy a rest day or activity day off the mountains.
7+ Days
Gives yourself even more flexibility to follow the conditions, explore different terrain and add some exra experiences to the itinerary. If you're keen to venture further, you could also set aside a day to explore one of Wānaka's ski areas.
Our Guides
Plan your Queenstown ski holiday
FAQs
Yes. Queenstown is well suited to first-time ski holidays, with beginner terrain, lessons and rental equipment available at both Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. You can also stay in town and use the Ski Bus to get to the mountains.
There’s plenty to do in Queenstown away from the slopes, from sightseeing and adventure activities to restaurants, shopping and relaxing in town. Coronet Peak & The Remarkables also offer sledding & sightseeing passes for this still wanting to experience the snow without skiing or snowboarding. This also makes it easy to plan a Queenstown winter holiday for groups with both skiers and non-skiers.
Yes. Wānaka can be incorporated into a longer Queenstown itinerary. Cardrona, Treble Cone and Snow Farm are further from Queenstown than the two local ski areas, so allow a full day if you plan to venture over the hill.
Yes. Coronet Peak and The Remarkables offer ski and snowboard programmes for a range of different ages and abilities. Check current programme ages and availability before booking.
