Snow bunny with some splurge money? Forego the trip to Perisher or Thredbo this year and shred it big on a REAL snow slope in New Zealand.
I’m not being unpatriotic here, merely realistic. Which is why I don’t believe it’s unfair to state that New Zealand’s skiing experience is a cut above Australia’s best. It might be their proximity to Antarctica that does it. Then again, it might be something in that there water. Whatever the reason, there are some things you shouldn’t question. So accept it: New Zealand’s slopes are exceptional. And you, you’re going to be on them this winter.
Woohoo!
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Images courtesy of Destination Queenstown
Table Of Contents:
Skiing in New Zealand - where to go, and when
How to choose your ski resort
New Zealand Ski Holiday packages and deals
What’s on in New Zealand, Winter2014
Skiing in New Zealand - where to go, and when
Unlike NSW, which is pretty much limited to Thredbo, Perisher Blue, and Charlotte Pass, New Zealand has ski slopes stretching from North Island to South Island - with the majority being in the south. (Hint: go to the South Island). One thing you should keep in mind when choosing your mountain, however, is that a number of them are ski clubs, which require you to travel with a member or sign up to be one to use of their facilities.
The next thing you should consider before deciding on your resort is what kind of snow activity you’re seeking. Skiing, snowboarding, and bobsledding can be had virtually everywhere, but New Zealand is also an exceptional destination to cut your teeth at heli skiing and snowcat skiing.
Heli and snowcat skiing (arriving on the slopes by helicopter and snowcat, respectively, as opposed to a chairlift) will provide you with the chance to ski off piste: ungroomed runs in the back country without a market to gude you or a beginner to get in your way.
Yeah, this is pro territory. If your experience with skiing is still at the snowplow stage, you might want to leave this for now.
Winning New Zealand another gold star for the ‘Ski Destination of the Year Awards’ (which we totally didn’t make up, or anything’ is the length of its season. This begins late-June and continues into October. By July, most of the mountains should be open and blanketed in a sweet pow-pow, ready for you to shred.
Travel insurance. When on a ski or snowboarding holiday, you should never underestimate the power of travel insurance, even if you are a pro. Sometimes the weather may let you down, icy patches could appear in the most unexpected places, or a novice skiier might make a wrong turn... into you. Before you leave on your ski trip, do some research and opt-in for an insurance package to suit your needs.
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How to choose your ski-resort
New Zealand has 14 main commercial ski areas, making it a heaven for skiing enthusiasts.
Here are the highlights:
The North Island
Whakapapa and Turoa are both on the North Island, on the north-eastern and south-western sides of Mt Ruapehu, respectively. It’s New Zealand’s biggest and busiest ski area. Whakapapa offer a variety of trails, suitable for beginners to the more advanced, while Turoa is more of an adrenaline junkie’s dreamscape. It houses the largest vertical drop of any resort in Australasia (722m), challenging black runs, natural half pipes forged by the might of the volcano, and hidden powder stashes.
Where to stay in Whakapapa and Ohakune (to ski Whakapapa or Turoa)
Chateau Tongariro Hotel from Expedia.com.au
Raising the bar for Chateaus everywhere is the Chateau Tongariro. It has 106 bedrooms (all of equal luxury), a sauna, golf course, and fitness facilities on-site. Naturally, the slopes aren’t too far away, and neither are kayaking and mountain biking if you’re planning to return during summer.
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Skotel Alpine Resort and Backpackers from Hotels.com
Book this hotel and the friendly staff will take care of the rest. Skotel makes skiing easy, with its ski shuttle, ski storage facilities, ski passes, and spa tub for, you know, when you return for some good ol’ r&r.
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Adventure Lodge and Motel, National Park Village from Hotels.com
Quaint and sweet, this lodge houses only nine rooms, making it the perfect getaway from the city life. The lodge offers free train station pick-up, wifi in public areas, and tour/ticket assistance for ensuring you make it to the slopes without any hassle. That IS what you’re here for, right?
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Powderhorn Chataeu, Ohakune from Hotels.com
This must be what all those American movies base their hunting lodges on. Wooden walls, awnings and furniture abound, and there’s a sense of warmth that’s unbearably addictive. You must make it to the ski-fields. You MUST. Don’t let the fireplace keep you from your destination. Okay, maybe you can get up those slopes tomorrow...
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The South Island: Mt Hutt
Often called the ‘Capital of Speed’, Mt Hutt regularly hosts social and racing events amidst a spectacular backdrop, which includes Mt Cook, the Canterbury Plains, and the Pacific Ocean. As a bonus, it’s only a 90-minute drive from Christchurch. Convenient, eh?
Where to stay to ski Mt Hutt
Ski Time Lodge from Check-in.com.au
One of the hottest and most affordable outfits in the region is Ski Time Lodge, so if you’re thinking about it, don’t. Book now as the season is ripe. Ski Time is an easy drive to Awa Awa Rata Reserve, Rakaia Gorge, and Mount Hutt Skifield. Too easy.
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Forest Lodge the Bavarian Restaurant and Bar from Check-in.com.au
Smooth sailing is how things will run at Forest Lodge as they pick you up at the airport and shuttle you to your digs. Inside, there’s a games room, bar and lounge, and restaurant. Outside, there’s all the skiing and exploring you can handle in Methven.
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Abisko Lodge Apartments and Campground from Check-in.com.au
Comprised of self contained apartments for families or groups, Abisko oozes with hominess. Getting to the town centre by foot will take you a mere minute, but if boarding and skiing are what you’ve planned for, you’re in the right spot, as you’re close to the foothills of Mt Hutt and all the skiing glory.
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Terrace Downs Resort from Expedia.com.au
Snow capped rooftops, and the possibility of snow angels in the front yard… are you excited? Terrace Downs is a gorgeous getaway resort with villas and terraces to stay in. This one’s actually located IN the mountains, so you’ll never be too far from the action. There’s a minimum age of 18, and spa treatments awaiting you after your downhill adventure.
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Redwood Lodge from Expedia.com.au
Bring the kids and they might not even notice that this is not home. Each room sports its own personality, with colourful striped linen, bunk beds and brightly coloured feature walls. There’s a shared communal kitchen to keep with that family-vibe, and complimentary bicycles to help you explore. Feeling brave? There’s also skydiving nearby.
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The South Island: Roundhill and Ohau
Roundhill and Ohau are your family-friendly, hands-up-if-you’re-a-beginner’s heaven. Well-serviced beginners’ slopes come equipped with excellent instructors and gentle rises and dips, while those leaning toward the more intermediate and advanced categories can head off-piste to more challenging chutes.
Where to stay to ski Roundhill and Ohau
Tekapo Heights from Expedia.com.au
Perfect is how this luxury B&B (yes, it’s a B&B!) has been described. On MORE than one occasion. Consisting of only four rooms, Tekapo Heights sports views of Lake Tekapo, and is a relaxing retreat away from the everyday grind. Pros: everything, cons: nothing. Said one guest via TripAdvisor.
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Lake Tekapo Lodge from Expedia.com.au
Luxury B&Bs seem to be the norm around Lake Tekapo, with this 4.5-star rival to Tekapo Heights. Take your pick – they’re both good. This one is also a four-bedroom affair, but offers complimentary breakfast (score!) and a minimum check-in age of 18 (double-score!).
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Mantra Lake Tekapo from Expedia.com.au
Larger parties can relish in this beautiful homestead. Its largest apartment can occupy up to six guests across three bedrooms. Each of its apartments comes with a roaring fireplace (seems to come as standard ‘round these parts) and comes with a fully equipped kitchen.
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Lakeview Tekapo from Expedia.com.au
Set in a residential area, and built around the owner’s residence, this boutique hotel consists of only three apartments. Each, however, is exquisitely presented with mod-cons and a slick modern design. It’s views of Lake Tekapo are unparalleled, begging just one question: when can I move into the neighbourhood?
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Glacier Rock Gallery from Hotels.com
The fact that Glacier Rock Gallery has only two bedrooms, makes this not only a special holiday, but a personal one, too. A complimentary breakfast is included in your stay, and so are views of the alpine tree speckled countryside.
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Glentanner Park Centre from Hotels.com
Those planning to drive it in and really explore the area, can rest their laurels at Glentanner Park Centre. A steal at as little as $26 per night, the centre is literally IN Mount Cook, and has 14 well-equipped cabins. Housekeeping even swings by if you need it.
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The South Island: Queenstown
You’ll no doubt have heard of Queenstown. This city is home to four of the most tourist-friendly ski fields in the south, The Remarkables, Cardonia, Coronet Peak and Treble Cone.
The magnificence of The Remarkables goes without saying. Craggy peaks dot the landscape, narrow chutes and off-piste powder await, and three sunny wide open bowls aim to please the most intrepid skier.
Cardrona is more understated and boasts the largest ski area that can be easily accessed from Queenstown. We consider it New Zealand’s ‘fun and friendly’ mountain, as its famous for its learner-friendly slopes and dedicated Kids’ Centres.
Coronet Peak attracts night owls and early morning risers with its Night Skiing and Fast Tracks options, which allow skiers extended snow-time. It also has dedicated race training facilities for world-class athletes and their world-class races.
Treble Cone is the South Island’s version of Whakapapa and Turoa, being this island’s largest ski area at 550 ha. It has the longest vertical rise in the Southern Lakes (705m), 4km-intermediate runs, more intermediate and advanced terrains than any other resort in the south, and delivers on views, with Lake Wanaka and Mt Aspiring both within sight.
Visit the official website of Queenstown New Zealand for more information on what to see and do in-resort.
Where to stay to ski in Queenstown
Luxury Lake Suites from Hotels.com
Settle into the lap of luxury at Luxury Lake Suites. From the moment you breeze through the doors, you’ll believe you’ve encountered heaven. The views are arresting, and the location is superb for – you got it – snow sports.
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The Turret Bed & Breakfast, Queenstown from Hotels.com
This B&B sits right on the shores of Lake Hayes and is a short distance to local wineries and golf courses. Load up on the complimentary breakfast before the short drive up to Coronet Peak Ski Area.
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Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa from Expedia.com.au
What is it about the words ‘resort’ and ‘spa’ that make a hotel that much more decadent? Couple that to the fact that Queenstown’s Hilton is the only hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the fact that it’s the closest hotel you can book into to The Remarkables ski area and you know where we’ll be staying. You too, right?
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The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments from Hotels.com
This hotel doesn’t even require words, but we’ll give them some anyway, because it really is a stunner to be raved about. They have 150 rooms to all but guarantee you a spot in heaven. Each room comes equipped with iPod docking stations and free wifi, there’s cycling, hiking, golfing, kayaking, cross country and downhill skiing nearby, and in-room massages – because you’re worth it.
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Amour Queenstown Bed and Breakfast from Hotels.com
Rest easy knowing that these views are pretty much yours for the taking. There are only three bedrooms on offer at Amour, making it a romantic abode fit for couples and newlyweds. The owner, Rose, is renowned for her utter care and hospitality. Take her up on her cooked-to-order breakfast and prepare yourself for a real treat.
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Millbrook Resort from Expedia.com.au
Wish you were here? Yeah, you do! You could be sinking your tired and stressed out self into these warm and inviting waters while staying at Millbrook. Because honestly, who says you can’t combine your ski holiday with a blissful pamper or two? While you rest, let the hotel concierge organise all your skiing needs. They’ve got this one, no worries.
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Caples Court from Expedia.com.au
Hitting the more affordable mark is Caples Court. It’s a 8-bedroom hotel with views of the bay, helpful and friendly staff, and one of the shortest walks in history to the town centre. Okay, maybe not in history, but it’s pretty damn short.
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Queenstown House from Hotels.com
This one really should be called Louise’s House, because this is her house, and she’s invited you over for a wonderful stay. She’ll spare the time to chat with you and offer you homemade scones and drinks for afternoon tea. Naturally, she’ll also give you some respite – so you can head up to the piste, naturally. Then she’ll welcome you back with a smile at day’s end.
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Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa from Hotels.com
If the idea behind this outfit is for you to feel like Queenstown royalty, then Sofitel have outdone themselves. The decor is decadent and plush to say the least, the fitout is modern – all manner of wood tones and chandelier and mood lights – and the boudier is elegant and refined. We don’t need to tell you this is a 5-star property, but we do need to tell you that there is a wealth of outdoor activities outside the hotel’s doors, if you feel so inclined to experience them.
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Willowbrook B&B and Cottages from Expedia.com.au
Willowbrook is one of the closest hotels to the Coronet Peak Ski Area, so you know what to do: answer the call of its extensive on-snow hours and ski, snowboard, or toboggan your day away.
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Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel from Hotels.com
It’s official: dark brown is the new black. Splashed in stark hues of white and brown, this boutique hotel is a trendsetter that attracts young couples to its friendly doors. Book with hotels.com and you’ll also receive 15% off select tours, so you can be that much closer savings-wise to booking that next trip.
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Crowne Plaza Hotel from Hotels.com
As much as we adore boutique cabins and personal homesteads, sometimes the bigwigs can get it spot on, and with the Crowne Plaza’s ideal spot on the late and extensive variety of rooms and options, they’re bang on the money. They’ll even let you bring your pet pooch to enjoy the view too, with pet-friendly rooms available on request.
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New Zealand Ski Holiday packages
At finder.com.au we’re all about ‘finding better’. That’s better deals, and a better way to get them than having to trawl the internet, and organise your holiday piece by every gruelling piece.
Ski holiday packages make life easier, and because we’re doing all the finding for you, here are four that we’ve found so you can spend less time surfing the web and more time surfing the slopes.
6* World Class Heli Ski from Adrenalin
Extreme ski aficionados seeking thrills, spills, and the ultimate deal, you’ve come to the right place. This package has it all. From a professional guide and his helicopter, to seven nights of luxury 6* lodge accommodation and 3 gourmet meals per day. Each day your guide and pilot will choose a heli ski location according to weather, and you can ski to your personal preference. Fast or slow, as little or as much as you like per day. Best week ever. It’s not a question, it’s a statement.
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Heli Skiing Private Charter, Queenstown from Adrenalin
Heli skiing through the Southern Alps is one of those once-in-a-lifetimes that you have to do. The snow here is measured in metres, not centimetres, and its complete back-country territory with runs going deep into the distance. On this private charter, you’ll be able to ski 10–14 runs, though if your will and your muscles compel you to, you can amp this up to 20 in this one-day event. Your choice? Just remember: you only live once.
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Heli Skiing Packages from Adrenalin
3, 4, 6, or 8 runs. How many would you like to do via Heli skiing? The beauty of this package is that the answer is completely up to you. Assess your heli-level, and choose accordingly. Transfers from your hotel to the helipad are all inclusive, as is a gourmet lunch, so you can squeeze in a few more runs.
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Ultimate NZ Ski from Contiki
7 day ski adventure. That’s the description. Now, for the reasons why you need to get on this tour. The first is so you can satiate that need for a snow adventure fix. The next is because it’ll take you through Queenstown, where three of New Zealand’s most renowned ski areas are. You’ll receive a four-day ski lift pass to use as you please, and transfers to and from your accommodation so you won’t need to lug around your gear. You’ll also be able to cash in on other adventure sports in the area, like skydiving, bungee jumping, and other ‘Kiwi-bred’ sports you haven’t even heard of before.
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What’s on in New Zealand, Winter 2014
I think we’ve pretty much covered EVERYTHING you need to know about skiing in New Zealand, but when the boards have been thrown to the corners, and your body is aching and wishing for a bit of relaxation, or touristy fodder, then you’ve these activities and events to turn to.
Admit it: We think of everything.
The North Face Freeski Open of New Zealand
When: 2–6 September 2014
Where: Snowpark, Wanaka
Welcome to the largest multi-disciplinary freeski event in the Southern Hemisphere. We mean it. Now in its eighth year, 140 pros and amateurs from around the world will flock to the Remarkables ski field and Snow Park NZ to participate in this open-air event. Yeah, Australasia’s got a pretty good contingent this year, so set your mouth to gobsmacked and your chant to Aussie, Aussie, Aussie. (Or Kiwi, Kiwi, Kiwi, if that’s the team you’re backing.)
Matariki
When: 28 June to 28 July 2014
Where: Nationwide
Though the main celebrations are centred around Auckland, the whole nation looks up for Matariki, which is the Maori New Year. In the South, Dunedin takes the charge with a parade that includes storytelling and dance.
Dunedin Cadbury Chocolate Festival
When: July 2014
Where: Baldwin St, Dunedin
Big kids and little kids will put their size differences aside to share in a love for chocolate in the home of the Cadbury chocolate factory. It all begins with the famous Cadbury Jaffa Race, where thousands of Jaffas are hurled down Baldwin St a.k.a. the world’s steepest street. Three second rule, amirite?
NZ Mountain Film Festival
When: 4–8 July (Wanaka) 10–11 July 2014 (Queenstown), 12pm-11pm
Where: Lake Wanaka Centre and Queenstown Memorial Centre
Hailed as one of the world’s premier mountain film festivals, international and local filmmakers compete for the grand prize of $3000. The themes of the movies celebrate adventurous sports and lifestyles, and there will be live music, guest speakers, workshops, a photography competition, and heaps of giveaways.
The Peak to Peak
When: 26 July 2014, 11am–5pm
Where: The Remarkables to Coronet Peak
Are you up for the challenge? Individuals and teams compete in the ultimate muscle-flexer surrounding by the most breathtaking scenery imaginable. You’ll ski/snowboard, bike, kayak, and run from the top of the Remarkables Ski Area to Coronet Peak. We’ll take our position as spectator, thank you.
Gay Ski Week QT
When: 30 August – 6 September 2014
Where: Queenstown
Suffering from the Mardi-Gras blues? Head over to New Zealand with a pair of skis and you’ll be feeling right as rain in no time. Even if you don’t ski, there’s still a party with your name on it here, with gay and lesbian club nights, cabaret and karaoke events, and even a circus party. Who will you dress up as?
Visa Wellington on a Plate
When: 15–31 August 2014
Where: Wellington
So you’re leaning less towards the snowboarding, more towards the food loading. No problemo. When in New Zealand you can’t deny two things: an adrenalin rush, and a culinary adventure. Here’s the part where the culinary adventure comes in. It’s NZ’s largest food festival and includes over 100 of New Zealands eateries offering set menus and specials for your salivating mouths. Special events include Beervana (featuring over 200 craft beers), and Burger Wellington (a Kiwi battle of the burger showdown).
...But if your timing is a little off – here are some less timely activities to keep you amused:
White Water Rafting, Rotorua NZD$75 from Adrenalin
Bring your swimsuit and a towel, you are guaranteed to get wet with this one. Everything else is supplied (even showers at the end of your journey), especially seeing as a 7 metre drop down the world’s biggest commercially rafted waterfall is in your future. Weeeee!
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Bungee Jumping, Rotorua NZD$99 from Adrenalin
Bungee jumping and New Zealand are pretty much synonymous. There is a reason why New Zealand is nicknamed the adventure capital of the world, and this one of those reasons. It’s a 43 metre drop, with your body plunging forward, the endorphins working, and a huge, triumphant smile on your face once it’s over. Gauranteed.
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Jet Boat Ride, Rotorua NZD$49 from Adrenalin
Feeling the need for speed sans having to put your bungee jumping body on the line? This ripper jet boat ride will take to from 0 to 100km/h in under 5 seconds on a dedicated course… to thrill.
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Sledging, Kaituna River NZD$104 from Adrenalin
Sledging, hydrospeeding, or hydrospeed. Call it whatever you like, it’s all the same when you’re speeding down the river, your chest lying on the board, your arms tucked neatly into its side grooves, and your legs kicking in glee.
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Yup, snow season IS calling...
...and one of the best destinations to head for skiing, boarding, and adventure sports is New Zealand. It’s only a stone’s throw away, and there are stacks of flight-and-ski packages available, although if you want to design-your-own-adventure (as many people do), you can turn to Expedia for help. It’s the world’s largest online travel agency for flights and hotels, has a price match guarantee and no booking fees.
After you’ve secured your flight, it’s then up to you to organise the rest of your holiday schedule according to your needs and desires. By using finder.com.au and our deal and coupon codes, your money’s guaranteed to be well spent during your holiday. All that’s left is for you to decide HOW you’ll spend it. It could be at a resort and spa, skiing by day and sinking into a hot tub by night, or on an all-out trip with the kids, traipsing between the top of the most child-friendly mountains, and the sights and sounds. Chocolate festival, anyone? Or perhaps you’d prefer a good ol’ bungee jump?.
Whatever floats your boat, we’ve got you sorted this ski season.
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