When the snow melts in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s tempting to stash your gear and wait out the off-season. But who says ski season has to end? There’s no better escape than heading south – way south. In New Zealand, winter kicks off just as summer hits its peak back home, meaning your next powder day could be just a flight away.
From the volcanic slopes of the North Island to the snow-covered peaks of the South, New Zealand offers world-class skiing, epic scenery, and a much-needed break from the summer heat back home. And with ShipSkis, getting your gear there is easier than ever.
Skiing in New Zealand: The Ski Season
New Zealand’s ski season typically runs from June through October, with the best conditions in July and August. Thanks to its high elevation and consistent snowfall, the country’s top ski fields are well-equipped to deliver everything from cruisy groomers to expert-only terrain. Plus, the terrain parks? Some of the best in the Southern Hemisphere.
Skiing in New Zealand: Top Ski Resorts
1. Treble Cone – Wanaka
Known for: Long runs, incredible off-piste terrain, and panoramic views over Lake Wanaka.
Treble Cone is a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders looking for challenging steeps and wide-open bowls. It’s the largest ski area on the South Island and less crowded than Queenstown’s more tourist-heavy slopes.
2. Cardrona Alpine Resort – Between Queenstown and Wanaka
Known for: Family-friendly vibes and epic terrain parks.
Whether you’re a beginner or a freestyle junkie, Cardrona has something for everyone. It’s home to some of the best terrain parks in the Southern Hemisphere and often hosts international competitions during the season.
3. Coronet Peak – Queenstown
Known for: Night skiing and easy access from town.
As one of New Zealand’s most accessible resorts, Coronet Peak offers a fun mix of terrain and stunning alpine views just 20 minutes from Queenstown. The night skiing is a must – there’s nothing like carving under the stars with the lights of the city twinkling below.
4. The Remarkables – Queenstown
Known for: Rugged terrain and a relaxed atmosphere.
True to their name, the Remarkables offer stunning scenery and a mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert terrain. It’s a great place to learn, explore, or just take in the views.
5. Mount Ruapehu (Whakapapa & Tūroa) – North Island
Known for: Skiing on an active volcano.
Yes, really. The North Island’s Mount Ruapehu is home to two ski fields, Whakapapa and Tūroa, that offer unique terrain and a totally different vibe than their South Island counterparts. It’s a surreal experience skiing on the slopes of a volcano surrounded by dramatic rock formations.
Skiing in Zealand: Getting Your Gear There
Let’s face it – lugging skis or a snowboard through multiple airports, customs lines, and transfers is enough to make anyone dread the journey. That’s where ShipSkis comes in.
With ShipSkis, you can send your gear ahead to New Zealand safely, affordably, and without the airline baggage fees or stress. Whether you’re landing in Queenstown, Auckland, or Christchurch, we’ll get your equipment to your lodging or resort – door-to-door, hassle-free.
Skiing in New Zealand isn’t just about great snow. It’s about experiencing winter in a whole new hemisphere, exploring a one-of-a-kind landscape, and trading crowded summer beaches for quiet mountain runs. So don’t wait for winter to come back around. With ShipSkis, ski season never has to end.