When it comes to finding the best ski-fields for your next New Zealand snow holiday, there are a lot of great options to choose from. Here, we’ve put together a list of the top destinations, along with resorts and key information regarding the area. Here is a list of the best ski resorts in New Zealand.

Best for: Families

One of the best New Zealand ski resorts for families and all-around good vibes, Cardrona is a local favourite. Nestled halfway between the South Island’s most beautiful towns, Queenstown and Wanaka, it is as convenient as it is epic. With a wide variety of terrain, views for days and modern facilities, we can’t fault it. Our only caveat? Thanks to its status as one of the best ski resorts in New Zealand, it can sometimes get a bit busy on the weekends.

Best for: Adventure

If you are on the hunt for the highest altitude New Zealand ski resort, then look no further than Mount Hutt. Located just over an hour from Christchurch, this South Island gem has superb snow conditions, thanks to the high elevation, and a wide variety of runs for all skillsets.

Best for: Skiing

Offering some of the best skiing in New Zealand for the more avid skiers, Treble Cone boasts not only awe-inspiring views of Lake Wanaka and Mt Aspiring, but it is also the largest ski area on the South Island. We love this resort because it’s got plenty of natural free-ride terrain, ideal for advanced skiers looking to really test their skills. 

For a more rugged New Zealand ski experience, head to the slopes at Craigieburn Valley. With some seriously impressive powder and a plethora of black runs, it’s loved by the more advanced skiers and riders, and it’s never busy, which is probably also another reason the more seasoned skiers prefer this New Zealand snow resort. It’s simple, with a basic lodge, limited accommodation, and only three rope tows, that’s its charm.

Skiing in New Zealand doesn’t come more authentic than this. Mount Olympus is another popular New Zealand skiing spot for the more avid skiers, with plenty of backcountry runs ready to be explored. You’ll never see a crowd here, with the only way to access the mountain being via rope tows. Plus, it’s pretty isolated in terms of location, a fair distance from anything going on. But this means plenty of fresh slopes and no lines! It is no wonder it’s become fondly known as the ‘playground of the Gods.’

Best for: Relaxation

One of the more well-known spots to go skiing in New Zealand thanks to its proximity to Queenstown and picturesque location amongst New Zealand’s most infamous mountains, the Remarkables is a great spot for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, especially for families and beginners. Whilst fairly small, it makes up for it in views and the variety of terrain on offer.

Best for: First-Timers

Another ski resort in New Zealand super close to Queenstown (just a 20-minute drive!) is Coronet Peak, which is perhaps the most popular on the South Island. Not only does it offer panoramic views of the awe-inspiring South Island landscape, but it offers a wide variety in terms of terrain, which means beginners and intermediate riders can get their fair share of runs. 

By far one of the most underrated ski resorts in New Zealand, Oahu is small, friendly and never crowded. Those who love fresh powder will be in heaven here, and combined with the amazing views of the turquoise Lake Ohau, it has a unique and magical feel. Everyone will find a run that suits them and for those who like skiing the hard stuff, there is also some great backcountry waiting to be explored. On the hunt for fresh New Zealand snow? Look no further.

Just an hour and a halves drive from Christchurch, this NZ ski resort is one of the best places to ski in New Zealand when you want to save a bit of cash. Mount Cheeseman is great for families, with plenty of easy runs and easy access to the slopes. Perhaps one of the reasons for its more affordable price, it is not the most stunning ski field in New Zealand, but you get all the same slopes, runs and fresh powder here as you would anywhere else, without having to break the bank.

Another spot where you can ski in New Zealand without spending all your savings, Broken River offers chill vibes, plenty of locals and no crowds. Lap up all that fresh powder you can dream of – this NZ ski resort has a wide variety of terrain and is ideal for families, too, as kids under 13 ski for free. Don’t expect too much in terms of amenities, however, but that’s OK, what matters here is simple – snow, good times and a friendly atmosphere.