For those of us who live in Auckland the landscape and social scene in Queenstown and Wanaka is really something quite different.
With fewer overseas tourists expected to the South Island this winter some resorts could have up to 40 to 50 percent fewer people. However, Jen Houltham, communications executive at Cardrona Alpine Resort Treble Cone, says the level of local interest and pre season bookings have been strong and the two resorts are expecting a great local atmosphere this season. “We pride ourselves on a fantastic on-snow experience, and this year is no different,” explains Jen. We have fantastic kids’ and learner facilities, catering for all age groups, including; an on-mountain fully-licensed early-childcare centre for those three months to five years.”
The Kids’ Club caters for children from five to 14 years and has specialist kids ski and snowboard instructors. “The covered conveyor beginner lift, and a “Chondola” lift are all about keeping things fun and easy for younger children and the gondola cabin allows the littlies to walk off and safely experience the top of the mountain,” explains Jen.
The ski fields are due to open on 26 June and while the July school holidays are already heavily booked, there are times outside the school holidays that offer some great value for money, from the more budget accommodation right through to luxury packages. “Come outside of the July school holidays – you get deals on passes, cheaper flights and cheaper accommodation,” says Jen Houltham of Cardrona Ski Resort Treble Cone.
Ski Travel New Zealand has a team of adventure holiday experts who can take care of everything for you; whether you want an affordable first time adventure of family fun, or want to take things to the next level and try your hand at heli skiing. If this year will be your first trip to the South Island for skiing and snowboarding you can save time and money by booking a package through the experts. “We get an understanding of what you are wanting from your ski holiday and give advice based on our many years of travelling to the snow. We then create the perfect itinerary for you and your family or friends,” explains Caroline, whose team can organise everything from equipment rentals, ski passes, ski lessons, rental car, insurance, transfers, tours or any other requests you may have,
With Queenstown so close, Cardrona is a popular choice with many people. Ruby’s Anna-Lise Sharma believes Queenstown is a great destination all year round. “I have a soft spot for Cardrona Ski Resort and show my commitment through incredibly early starts over the Crown Range to ensure we get in the top carpark,” says Anna-Lise. She also has some great suggestions for accommodation too: the Sherwood Queenstown and the 5-Star luxury Millbrook Resort in picturesque Arrowtown. The Sherwood is rated by Expedia as one of the world’s top 10 Sustainable Hotels and has the well-being of its community and the environment as fundamental to its success. “You’ll find me at Captains Basin followed by Cardrona Pub for mulled wine, and I can’t look past brunch at The Chop Shop, Arrowtown,” says Anna-Lise.
Ponsonby local, Karen Spires and husband John are also seasoned skiers. “I’ve been skiing for over 20 years at Coronet Peak and the Remarkables,” says Karen, who tells us that Vudu is the place for great coffee and The Lodge Bar at Rod and Gun makes the most delicious cocktails in town. When it comes to going out for dinner, R-at-a (Josh Emmett) is Karen’s recommendation for an exceptional meal. R-at-a which reopened on 19 June, is welcoming visitors and locals back for a season of aprés-ski dinner and cocktails.
Of course there are both small and grand ways to indulge in Queenstown and one recommended by the team at Cardona is the Onsen Hot Pools and Day Spa in Arthur’s Pass. New Zealand owned and operated, Onsen offers a uniquely kiwi twist on Japanese bathing tradition with cedar hot tubs overlooking the incredible Shotover river. Although after a day of skiing sometimes something simple is all you need; a firm favourite with the Cardrona resort team is a hot chocolate at Revology Concept Store and Tea House in Wanaka - the perfect treat for the kids to warm up with.
Broken River
Probably New Zealand’s best kept snow resort secret is Broken River ski field. The accommodation at this more remote ski resort is nestled amongst the trees on the mountain side. Just an hour and a half out of Christchurch, this is one of six not-for-profit club fields in the Canterbury region and offers some of the very best skiing in the country for intermediate to advanced skiers. It features unspoilt ski fields with deep powder runs and loads of open space. The price tag is modest and while there may not be gondolas and chair lifts with all the bells and whistles, the high speed rope tows get you to the top of the runs in no time. But that’s not the best part.
“It’s about more than just great skiing or snowboarding explains Claire Newell, marketing coordinator for Broken River. There is something really special about the social atmosphere at Broken River. It’s more like a big extended family on the mountain where families and friends get together, and it’s a wonderful social experience. You need to have mastered the basics before heading to Broken River, but it’s well worth doing to be at a resort that only has 200 people on a busy day.
Cardrona
Known for some of the best ski resort atmosphere for families, Cardrona is just an hour from Queenstown and just over 30 minutes from Wanaka. While the drive from Queenstown can sometimes be a bit challenging, the scenery is breathtaking and there are regular shuttles running from Queenstown to the mountain. It’s a modern resort that has excellent infrastructure and services.
Remarkables
The Remarkables are amongst the most photographed mountains in New Zealand and the resort is super close to Queenstown. Due to open early July, 30% of the slopes are dedicated to beginners, with lots of snowmaking machines and plenty of shuttles between the resort and Queentsown.
Treble Cone
Treble Cone is well known for natural free-ride terrain so is great for intermediate and more experienced skiers and snowboarders. Did you know that Treble Cone has the largest ski area in the South Island and has the country’s highest annual snowfall? No wonder it’s famous for great snow. It’s super close to Wanaka and only an hour and half from the buzz of Queenstown.
Broken River
Broken River is about 1.5 hours from Christchurch airport and gets high praise from international skiers and snowboarders (those who know about it) for its great runs with plenty of powder stashes for everyone. It has a super friendly atmosphere and while August is pretty much booked out there is still some availability during the July school holidays.
Coronet Peak
Coronet Peak is arguably the South Island’s most popular Ski resort with its panoramic views over Lake Hayes, Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables. It’s easy access from Queenstown (just a 30 minute drive) and is known for its great intermediate level trails.