Destinations
Queenstown winter guide: ski areas & alpine adventures
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The coolest season is almost here, and there is only one destination that should be on your list in New Zealand. Queenstown is home to incredible views, ski slopes, après, and epic activities for winter lovers and the powder hounds among us.
Located in the heart of the southern alps, Queenstown offers the ultimate winter holiday escape. Boasting not one but four fantastic ski areas, iconic activities on and off the mountain, plus a variety of terrain for every ability.
This alpine paradise is waiting for you, and here are a few reasons why to visit this year.
Visiting Queenstown in Winter
What to do in June?
1. Visit four world-class ski areas
How lucky is New Zealand to have premium skiing right on their doorstep and four incredible mountains within an hour's drive?
Queenstown is home to Coronet Peak and The Remarkables ski resorts. Hop over the hill to Wanaka, and you will find Cardrona and Treble Cone. All four mountains offer excellent terrain, with skiers leaning toward the steep slopes of Treble Cone and Coronet Peak, while those who love to lap the park head to The Remarkables and Cardrona to catch some air.
Are you looking for long runs and off-piste? Head to Cardrona and check out the brand new Soho-Basin with unbeatable views back into Queenstown.
2. Enjoy off the mountain adventures
We encourage all visitors in winter to explore the slopes, but if that isn't your jam and you are keen to explore Queenstown on two feet, we have some pretty excellent suggestions.
Jump on board the iconic 'Lady of the Lake' with Real NZ. The TSS Earnslaw is an old steamship that cruises Lake Wakatipu daily. Dine a delicious BBQ lunch before heading back into town just in time to join the après fun.
Queenstown is home to a vibrant restaurant scene, and there is mulled wine aplenty; we promise you that. Dine at the likes of Eichardt's Blue Kanu or Botswana Butchery for delectable eats, or slide into The World Bar or yonder for something low-key, yet tasty.
3. Soak up a little luxury at Onsen Hot Pools
No winter retreat is complete without a hot tub, and Queenstown is home to some of the most picturesque tubs in the land.
The iconic and globally recognised Onsen Hot Pools is a must-do. Slip into the warm waters overlooking the Shotover River and towering mountain surrounding.
If you are reading this, we think you should book your spot now, as it's a sell-out location in winter.
Onsen fully booked? Check out Nugget Point Spa or Kamana Lakehouse for your tub fix.
4. Take part in the winter festivities!
Queenstown comes alive in winter, and there is so much to do on and off the mountain. Here are three unmissable events.
Welcome to Winter
Queenstown's newly revamped winter festival is now called Welcome to Winter. Join the locals and visitors as they celebrate everything about this epic little alpine town. An action-packed four days with free and ticket events, markets, fireworks, and plenty of winter fun. With annual snow dog races, live music, and events spanning from dusk to dawn, you will catch a moment of magic in July.
Winter Pride
Ten whole days of rainbow magic. Winter Pride is returning for 2022. There is something for everyone at Pride, with family-friendly events during the day and a little mischief in the evening. 40 + events span the town, onto the mountains, and into the bars by night. Think live music, drag karaoke, and quiz nights.
Night Ski
Who said the fun stops when the sun goes down? Night skiing is a bucket list winter activity in New Zealand and is unique to Coronet Peak. Join snow and après enthusiasts for night skiing at Coronet Peak every Wednesday and Friday night from June to September. Outdoor fire pits will keep you warm along with a cheeky mulled wine before you lap the slopes at sunset till the stars start shining.
Snow Machine
Four days of music, snow, and après await. The highly anticipated Snow Machine festival will grace the Remarkables and Coronet ski slopes in September. Artists like Fat Freddy's Drop, The Presets, Ball Park Music, Client Liaison and Illy will perform in the main arena in Queenstown, and tabletop dancing en-piste is highly encouraged. If snow, a party, and live music is your thing, don't miss this festival.
Where to stay
New Zealand's newest holiday park has just opened in Queenstown. Nestled on the shores of Lake Whakatipu, Driftaway is your home away from home this winter season.
Book a terraced powered site for extraordinary views down the Frankton Arm, perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
You will have access to an entire amenities block, kitchen, BBQs, and balcony boasting those magic views.
Book early; this brand new campground is hot off the press and already selling out.
Powered and unpowered sites are available
Incredible views and central location to the CBD, ski fields, shopping area, and more
Brand new facility hub available to all who stay
Ready to get started?
Your holiday of a lifetime awaits, and winter in Queenstown is truly magic. Are you ready to pack up your skis and hit the road? Hire a van and explore Queenstown this winter. Check out vans in Queenstown here.
There you have it, winter in Queenstown in a nutshell. Now, all to do is find a home on wheels in your local area and hit the road.
Explore motorhomes, campervans, and caravans for hire in New Zealand and get planning for your next road trip.