Ski New Zealand: 8 Day Snow Safari (Queenstown to Christchurch)

Kia ora and welcome to Queenstown, the ‘adventure capital of the world’ and gateway to New Zealand’s awe-inspiring Southern Alps. Meet up with your local leader and fellow travellers at 6pm this evening to find out about what lies ahead on your epic snow journey. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy.

Start the day early at 6am, pick up your hire gear then transport to one of New Zealand’s finest ski fields. Picture wide open trails, powder snow, spectacular views, sun-drenched terrain and unforgettable runs and you’ve got The Remarkables. Set in a vast natural amphitheatre high in the rugged ranges, this is the highest ski field in Queenstown at 1943m. Being so far up is a major plus, giving the ski field a long, reliable season – and the north facing aspect makes it a natural sun-trap. To help beginners get into the swing of things we can help arrange beginner ski/boarding lessons.
While there are plenty of options for beginners, The Remarkables ski area also boasts a new international standard Super Pipe. At 150m long and 22m wide it’s for advanced level riders and skiers only, and an absolute blast if you have the skills. The expanded Xbox Terrain and Rail Park and other features, combined with the big mountain possibilities, make The Remarkables a top choice for freeriders. At the end of an exciting day on the slopes, it’s time to head back down to Queenstown and either rest up or catch the vibrant nightlife at the many bars dotted around town.

Coronet Peak is the oldest and most developed ski area in the South Island, with an astounding variety of runs and on-field facilities that are some of the finest in the region. Everything is designed to ensure you make the most of skiing and boarding, whatever your level of ability. Everyone can ski like a pro at Coronet Peak – there are dedicated slopes for first-timers, wide groomed trails and plenty of choice for more experienced skiers. Your group leader will help show you the best option for your abilities. Once you know the ropes, you can zoom down the slopes and enjoy gently rolling terrain with plenty of dips and drops for great variety. For boarders, Coronet Peak is a natural terrain park, full of endless hits and powder stashes. After your final run, it’s time to enjoy Queenstown’s excellent bars, restaurants and cafes beside the lake then kick on into the night, or head back to the hostel for a well-earned sleep.

After three days on the slopes, it’s time to rest your legs and experience everything Queenstown has to offer. From a relaxing cruise on Lake Whakatipu, Lord of the Rings tour, or winery visit at nearby Gibbston, to a leisurely bike ride along the (mostly flat) Queenstown Trail or adrenaline-pumping jetboat rides, white water rafting or even bungee jumping, there is sure to be an adventure to suit. If you can't bear to be away from the snow for a day, there are a number of carbon-neutral heli-ski options that will take you to untouched powder in the area. Whatever you choose to experience, try and save some energy for the next two days – you’re going to need it!

Leave Queenstown behind and drive north towards Wanaka, but not without stopping for a full day at Cardrona Alpine Resort, renowned among skiers and boarders for inspiring terrain and dry natural snow. Blessed with ‘New Zealand’s most reliable snow’, it's one of the top mountains in the country. With 345 hectares of wide, undulating trails, open slopes, steep chutes and awesome terrain parks, your group leader will be happy to recommend runs to best suit your ability. A wide area of the mountain is serviced by chair lifts, so access is easy and Cardrona’s three basins offer wide-open spaces and a mixture of terrains that are suitable for snowboarders and skiers of all abilities. On-mountain facilities include five cafes, so there’s plenty of opportunity to relax between your epic runs. After a full day on the slopes enjoy a relaxing drive (approximately 1 hr) all the way to Wanaka, New Zealand’s ‘ultimate hub for outdoor adventures’, and your home for the next 2 nights.

Start the day early with a short drive to Treble Cone in the heart of the Southern Alps, home to the highest lift-accessed terrain, longest groomed intermediate runs, and highest vertical drop on the South Island. This is also the South Island’s largest ski area with plenty of varied terrain, amazing views across Wanaka and trails to suit all ages and abilities. For those newer to snow sports there is a purpose-built learner area and long, groomed beginner and intermediate trails. More experienced skiers and boarders are drawn to the natural half pipes, challenging advanced runs and ungroomed powder. Renowned for its reliable snow conditions and weather, and Home Basin Express chairlift so you can enjoy more runs per day, Treble Cone really is skiing and boarding heaven. After a day on the slopes, you’ll head back to Wanaka. With a huge number of places to dine, drink and dance the night away, your choices on this free evening are endless.

Start the day with an early morning drive (approximately 2hrs) to nearby Ohau, a remote ski field that can be found midway between Christchurch and Queenstown. While the drive is stunning as you take in views of the aquamarine Lake Pukaki and beautiful Mackenzie Basin the ski fields of Ohau are the true highlight. Ohau also offers exquisite dry powder snow and epic terrain – and will get you away from the tourist trail to experience an awesome range of ski fields for all abilities. Your group leader will be happy to explain your choices in this epic snow destination. After a day on the slopes, continue north (approximately 1.5 hours) to our accommodation on the shores of beautiful Lake Tekapo, your home for the night. Chill out at a local café or wander the southern shores of this stunning turquoise lake and soak in the magnificent views of the nearby snow-covered mountains. Lake Tekapo also sits' within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the world's largest reserve so don't forget to check out the night sky - it's stunning.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast and one final early morning start with a drive (approximately 2.5hrs) across the Canterbury Plains to the incomparable Mount Hutt Ski Area, Voted New Zealand's Best Ski Resort six years in a row. Located high in the Southern Alps, Mt Hutt receives some of the lightest and driest powder in Australasia. A big mountain with 365 skiable hectares and great terrain, this ski field is an awesome winter experience for first timers and seasoned powder hounds alike. Collect your included lift pass and choose your own final snow adventure, from adrenalin-pumping black diamond runs to wide, open trails that provide easy learning for novice skiers or a chance to brush up on existing skills.
After a last day on the snow it’s time to put your feet up and enjoy the relaxing 2 hour drive back towards the coast and the cosmopolitan city of Christchurch.