Skiing in New Zealand

The New Zealand ski season typically kicks off in the South Island from mid to late June and finishes in October, while the North Island season starts and finishes a little later. The South Island is home to three main skiing regions with world-class ski schools, accommodation close to the ski fields, transport from door to slope and value for money ski deals covering the essentials. Did we mention fine dining, adventure activities and wineries close to town? In the North Island, ski at Mt Ruapehu, New Zealand's largest commercial ski field - now that's something to write home about!

Snowboarding in New Zealand

If you’re looking for super pipes, rails, boxes and off-trail powder freedom you’ll find them on New Zealand’s snowfields. For awesome freeriding, you can't go past Coronet Peak in Queenstown. This ski field has terrain for snowboarders of all abilities with slopes that offer both wide-open pistes and well-groomed trails. Ohau - a ski area between Christchurch and Queenstown has a great choice of steeps and excellent riding for all levels.

Tips for first time skiers and snowboarders

New Zealand is also one the best places to experience skiing for the first time. There are qualified instructors at each of the South Island's resorts that offer both group and private lessons for skiing and snowboarding. There are ski shops in Queenstown, Wanaka and Methven that rent out all the equipment you need including boots, boards, skis, clothing and helmets. Or if you prefer to get your equipment on the mountain then all the resorts have ski hire too.

Not sure what to wear? Layers are best. A base layer, mid layer and outer layer or shell are good options as you can dress up or down depending on the temperature. Thermals are a must if you feel the cold and neck warmers to protect against the wind. Don’t forget sunscreen! The UV rays reflected off the snow are almost three times as strong as those reflected at the beach.