Ski New Zealand Signature Tour

Welcome to Christchurch City

Christchurch New Zealand's garden city is steadily being transformed into a vibrant urban destination. Encompassing a large green belt, it is known for its wide tree lined avenues and lush gardens. A great way to explore the city or easy way to see the sights or ride the historic trams across town to the renowned botanic gardens and the unique cardboard Transitional Cathedral, that's right it is built of cardboard!

Collect your rental car

This tour can be priced with any of the rental cars available in our fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige saloons and SUV's.

Christchurch to Methven

Heading out of Christchurch, you will drive through the town of Rakaia which sits on the southern side of the Rakaia River, and is 'the salmon capital of New Zealand'. The Rakaia bridge spans 1.8 kilometres of one of the world's best examples of a 'braided' river system. Next, it's onto Ashburton, which sits between the Rakaia and Rangitata rivers. It is a large town that serves the local rural community. It has about six museums and some excellent craft galleries. Trout fishing is the local obsession, and the ski fields of Mt Hutt are an easy drive away. Point your car towards the Southern Alps and you'll be in Methven in about half an hour. The checkerboard fields of the Canterbury Plains provide soothing scenery all the way. The village of Methven is a mecca for those who love outdoor sports.

Explore Methven

Methven, situated on the Inland Scenic Route 72, is both a summer and winter adventure wonderland.  In winter the small rural village is bustling with people intent on spending as much time on the slopes of Mt Hutt ski field.  When the snow melts, other activities take prominence, including walking, hot pools, hot air-ballooning or jet boating.  Methven provides a good range of eating establishments and is a friendly town to spend some time in during your travels.

5 Day Lift Superpass with NZ Ski

The New Zealand Superpass is the most flexible lift pass in New Zealand, giving you access to ski and ride at three of South Island's mountains – Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Mt Hutt. Get more choice, more fun, and more snow time with your NZ Superpass, and make the most of your New Zealand ski holiday! 
You can decide on the day whether you're skiing The Remarkables or Coronet Peak while you are in Queenstown. Another option is visiting the Guest Services Desk to swap one of your Superpass days for a Twilight Pass. With so much flexibility and freedom, you'll have an awesome time no matter the weather. And if you find that your legs aren't going to hold up to the 5th day of skiing, no worries you can swap a Superpass day for credit towards thrilling off-mountain activities, great shopping, and some of the best bars and restaurants in Queenstown.

Methven to Mt Hutt Ski Field

Mt Hutt Ski Field is just 26km from Methven. After leaving the Methven township, you will drive a short distance through Canterbury countryside until you reach the well-signposted access road to Mt Hutt ski field. After your day in the snow, you will return to Methven on this same route.

Mt Hutt Ski Field

Mt Hutt has been voted New Zealand’s best ski resort for seven years running at the World Ski Awards. A true alpine experience, with wide-open terrain, leg-burning runs, monster snowfalls, and spectacular views. You’ve not skied in New Zealand until you’ve skied Hutt!
Mt Hutt is your go-to for epic freestyle skiing and snowboarding with four terrain park zones featuring jumps and features for all abilities and with the Summit chairlift is an easy way to access great backcountry riding and skiing. 
Mt Hutt offers 365 hectares of skiable terrain for you to explore, with the longest run, a lengthy 2km. With its mixture of 25% beginners, 50% intermediate, and 25% advanced terrain there is a range of trails for everyone to conquer. Food and beverages are available at Sixteen10 Espresso Bar, Ski High Cafe, and Opuke Kai which offers mulled wine and an a la carte experience on the mountain, where you can recharge your batteries for your next run. For visitors to the South Island, it's easy to hire all the gear you need on the mountain, so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm. For the littlies, there is a licensed child's creche for 3 months to 5yrs and a snow sports school for both kids and adults who are finding their snow legs.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Full Day Private Coaching with NZ Ski

You'll enjoy the expertise of your own private Snowsports instructor for a full-day private lesson, you'll build on your basic skills, grow in confidence on challenging terrain, and iron out any bad habits.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Clothing Rental with NZ Ski

Everything you need for the Mt Hutt ski field is available directly on the mountain, no need to carry it all up. You'll find the latest gear, from clothing to equipment, and the on-site technicians keep it in top condition.
Please note: you can not hire out gloves, goggles, or sunglasses for hygiene reasons. Please bring your own or these items can be purchased from the retail outlets on each ski area, or in town.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - NZSki: Equipment Rental

Everything you need for Mt. Hutt Skifield is available directly on the mountain, no need to carry it all up. You'll find the latest gear, from clothing to equipment, and the on-site technicians keep it in top condition. Use the revolutionary Head BYS ski fitting system designed to reduce the amount of time taken to fit boots and skis allowing you maximum time on the slopes. The snowboard gear is the industry leading Burton 'Learn to Ride'. If you want to swap, exchange, upgrade or if you find something is not quite right, they'll take care of it on the spot.
Please note: you can not hire out gloves, goggles or sunglasses for hygiene reasons. Please bring your own or these items can be purchased from the retail outlets on each ski area, or in town.

Another Day Mt Hutt Ski Field

Now you know your way around Mt Hutt base its time to start exploring more of the ski field.

Methven to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park via the Inland Scenic Route

Hugging the foothills of the Southern Alps and Peel Forest you arrive into the township of Geraldine, another ideal refreshment stop (local ice cream, cheeses, bakery etc) before you head into the Mackenzie country.
Turning west you continue towards the high country and passing through places such as Beautiful Valley it's not hard to understand how the names originated. Ascending Burkes Pass and onto the high country plateau and the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo, the first of the large Southern Lakes. It's a great place to take a scenic flight, enjoy a guided horse trek, a boat trip on the pristine lake or just enjoy the magnificent views.
Lake Pukaki is just another 30 minutes from Lake Tekapo and its from here you can be rewarded with spectacular views the full length of the lake and into Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. In Mt Cook Village a myriad of activities are available from glacier landings by ski plane or helicopter, kayaking on a glacial lake and a host of walks to suit all abilities and time frames. At The Hermitage Hotel the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre is a must see.

Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park

At 3754 metres Aoraki-Mt Cook is New Zealand's highest mountain, located deep in the heart of the Southern Alps. From the Visitor Centre at the southern end of Lake Pukaki, you will be rewarded with magnificent views of this immense peak. As well as its impressive beauty, Mt Cook National Park is also home to a huge range of awe-inspiring sights and activities. Take to the air with Mt Cook Ski Planes for a scenic flight that includes a glacier landing. At around 27 kilometres long the Tasman Glacier is New Zealand's longest and a Glacier Explorers tour will give you the opportunity to see its unique features.
There are many short hikes in and around the park and these are well signposted. Those with an interest in the night sky should take a stargazing tour with the Hermitage Hotel. The region is considered to have one of the clearest night skies in the world and is one of the few gold-rated dark sky reserves worldwide.
The Hermitage Hotel complex offers fine dining, multiple cafes and a bar. Due to the remote location of the property, there are no shops and limited supplies at Mt Cook Village. Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre for insight into this region's mountain climbing history. You'll also learn of Sir Ed's incredible achievements and his dedication to helping others around the world.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre Museum and Theatre Explorer Pass

A tribute to New Zealand's Sir Edmund Hillary, a humanitarian, ambassador, and one of the world's greatest explorers. The centre showcases the Aoraki Mount Cook region, the history of climbing, and early transport used throughout the region. This comprehensive museum details the life of Sir Edmund Hillary, the Hermitage, and provides access to the 126-seat custom-designed theatre. Check out the daily film schedule which includes 3D Movies, documentaries, and 360-degree digital dome features.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Alpine Explorer Heli Flight and Snow Landing with The Helicopter Line

Experience this magnificent alpine environment with a 35 minute flight over the Ben Ohau Mountains. Fly close to the steep ridges and rise over a mountain pass which reveals superb views out to Aoraki/Mount Cook and its surrounding peaks. Prepare yourself for an amazing alpine landing where you will be able to step out of the helicopter and play in the snow. Should weather not be suitable to take this flight you are able to transfer your booking onto a similar tour on any of the Helicopter Line's operations in Queenstown or Mt Cook.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Big Sky Stargazing

Mt Cook is far from the city lights and therefore has some of the darkest skies in New Zealand, perfect for viewing the night sky! Their fully trained guides are delighted to show you the beautiful southern night sky using the naked eye, state of the art astronomy telescopes and binoculars at the outdoor viewing platform. If the weather is not favourable then there will be an indoor alternative featuring New Zealand’s first full dome digital Planetarium, a high-definition video images on a suspended 9m wide x 4.5m high full dome. Unleash your imagination as you discover the night sky including the Southern Cross, seasonal ecliptic objects, planets, star clusters, moons, distant galaxies and even our very own galaxy, the spectacular Milky Way!

Walking tracks in and around Aoraki / Mt. Cook National Park

There are many short scenic walks beginning in and around the Mt Cook Village, suitable for all ages and abilities. Located within the Mount Cook Village is the Department of Conservation information centre, where updates on the track conditions and suitability is available as well as information on the history of the area and its wildlife.

Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to Wanaka

Twizel, just south of Aoraki Mt Cook was the location of many Lord of the Rings movie scenes and a little further on is Omarama, the gliding capital of New Zealand. Wrinkly Rams is a local café with great coffee and fresh homemade food. The Lindis Pass is one of New Zealand’s highest roads with the summit reaching 971 metres. The tussock covered hills offer an unusual contrast as you pass from the Mackenzie Basin and into Central Otago. The first Central Otago settlement you reach is the quaint village of Tarras, which has a number of boutique stores and a lovely café.  Approaching Wanaka the wonderful alpine lake welcomes you to the town. Despite its size Wanaka has a wide variety of activities available. In winter it is without doubt New Zealand's premier ski destination with its very close proximity to Treble Cone and Cardrona ski fields. Mount Aspiring National Park sits to the western edge of the lake and offers wonderful walking tracks for all abilities; the Rob Roy Track is a great introduction to this spectacular park. Fishing, sailing and water skiing are popular pastimes on the lake and the many beach access points provide great spots for picnics and relaxing.

Arrive into Wanaka and collect your lift pass

Welcome to Wanaka for your winter ski or snowboarding holiday.  It’s not just the skiing that makes Wanaka a fantastic winter destination, there’s also the spectacular scenery, amazing adventures, and endless activities to keep you entertained when you’re not on the slopes.  After each action-packed day, you’ll also find a superb variety of cafes and restaurants to relax and refuel at. Today we recommend you visit the Cardrona x Treble Cone Wanaka Office (located at 50 Cardrona Valley Road, Wanaka) and collect your lift pass.  This will save you heaps of time tomorrow as you’ll avoid the morning queues and can head straight to the mountain with more time to ski and ride. 

Cardrona & Treble Cone - 3 of 7 Day Dual Mountain Lift Pass

Cardrona is New Zealand's fun and family-friendly ski resort with the most reliable snow conditions in the region. Its high elevation and southerly aspect mean dry natural snow is plentiful, which is further enhanced by snowmaking facilities. Cardrona is the perfect place for beginners and intermediates, with NZ's only combined gondola chairlift, easy-to-use surface lifts, specialized beginner packages, and plenty of wide open trails spread over three basins. 
Treble Cone Ski Field, the largest ski area in NZ’s South Island, is famous for its long, uncrowded groomed runs, legendary off-piste terrain and unrivalled views over Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. Located just a 35-minute scenic drive from Wanaka and a 90 minute drive from Queenstown via the Crown Range road.
Treble Cone is a must-do experience for skiers and snowboarders with a massive 700m of vertical, which also allows for some of New Zealand’s longest groomed trails and best free-riding terrain.
This lift pass gives you the flexibility to ski at either mountain for 3 days in a 7-day period.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Cardrona/Treble ConeRental Equipment

Make life simpler and hire your rental equipment up the mountain. Cardrona and Treble Cone have a huge range of the latest ski and snowboard gear for a great day out. Rent skis and snowboards including twin tips, Burton Learn to Ride snowboards, Performance skis, and beginner skis. Hire up the mountain and have the option of dropping off in Wanaka or Queenstown at the end of your ski holiday.  Best of all your hired boots and skis can be changed at any time throughout the day if necessary.

Wanaka to Treble Cone Ski Field

Leaving on Mt Aspiring Road you will drive along the shore of Lake Wanaka to the base of the Treble Cone Ski Field.

Treble Cone Ski Field

Treble Cone, the largest ski area in NZ’s South Island, is famous for its long, uncrowded groomed runs, legendary off-piste terrain, and unrivaled views over Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
Once you know your way around Home Basin, time to head out wide and explore Matukituki Basin, be sure to stop out there and take in the spectacular views of the Southern Alps and down to Lake Wanaka.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Recommended après bars in Wānaka

After a long day on the slopes, there's nothing better than finding that perfect spot to relax with your family or friends, where you can sit down and tell each other about the incredible day you've had! Here are our favourite local locations to enjoy the best post-mountain drinks and snacks.

The Cardrona Hotel
Cardrona Valley Road, Cardrona
The Cardrona Hotel is as iconic in the Queenstown and Wanaka region as sheep are to New Zealand. Rumoured to be the most photographed building in NZ, the historic facade hides an award-winning restaurant and popular beer garden. Warm up by the fire while choosing from an array of local beer, wine, and spirits at the bar, and great pub meals the whole family will enjoy.

Après Wānaka
50 Cardrona Valley Road, Wānaka
Looked after by the team at Cardrona and Treble Cone, this unique indoor/outdoor après setting has the best of both worlds. They offer great seasonal food and have local beers and ciders on tap - there's even Central Otago wine and spirits available too. Relax by the fire inside, or get some fresh air and let the kids play on the onsite playground.

Maude
76A Golf Course Road, Wānaka
Tasting room by day and French restaurant by night, Maude is one of the more upmarket après spots here in Wānaka. It offers incredible views out across Wānaka, where you can relax and taste their award-winning wines. If you're feeling peckish, you can pair these with a cheeseboard or something from their Bistro Bites menu.

b.social
60 Anderson Rd, Wānaka
Run by local craft brewery, b.effect, b.social offers a range of tasty craft beers, cider, and kombucha all made on site. The kitchen serves up favourites like burgers, poutine and crispy fried cauliflower and there's plenty of seating inside and out.

Wanaka to Cardrona Ski Field

Leaving Wanaka you will travel through the beautiful Cardrona Valley to the base of the Cardrona Ski Field.

Cardrona Alpine Resort

Set over 465 hectares with 25% beginner, 25% intermediate, 30% advanced, and 20% expert terrain, there is definitely something to suit all abilities. With 5 lifts spread over 4 basins, there is plenty to explore. Cardrona also offers parks and pipes of different levels for those that enjoy jumps and freestyle fun.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Cinema Paradiso - Suggested Activity

Feel like a relaxing night, take yourself to the movies, Cinema Paradiso is not your average cinema. A classic movie theatre with comfy old sofas, an old Morris Minor car, and a cafe & bar serving delicious meals before, during, or after the movie. A great option for days when the weather is not so great up the ski field, especially for families! Paradiso provides a novel experience - they even have a half-time intermission where you can get homemade ice cream, a hot chocolate, or a freshly baked cookie! Tickets can be purchased at your own expense at the cinema prior to the session or up to a few days before the movie you wish to see. The seating is unallocated, so if you arrive early you get the pick of the couches, chairs, and cinema seating.

Wanaka to Cardrona Ski Field

Leaving Wanaka you will travel through the beautiful Cardrona Valley to the base of the Cardrona Ski Field.

2nd Day Cardrona Alpine Resort

Set over 465 hectares with 25% beginner, 25% intermediate, 30% advanced, and 20% expert terrain, there is definitely something to suit all abilities. With 5 lifts spread over 4 basins, there is plenty to explore. Cardrona also offers parks and pipes of different levels for those that enjoy jumps and freestyle fun.

Wanaka to Queenstown

Leaving Wanaka you head over New Zealand's highest sealed road, Crown Range Road before dropping into Queenstown.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Snow Farm

Set high on the Pisa Range in the heart of the South Island, the Snow Farm is an ideal winter destination. With 55km of scenic trails that are perfect for cross country skiing or snowshoeing and a snow fun zone with snow tubes and sledges, there is something for the whole family at the Snow Farm.

Cross country or Nordic skiing
A great sport for all ages and a fantastic way to experience the stunning New Zealand Alpine environment as you climb, descend and traverse the gentle rolling hills and peaceful valleys of the Pisa range.  A truly social sport, the wide groomed trails provide and easily accessible beginner terrain – a perfect opportunity to try the sport for the first time or to develop your skills with the help of the highly experienced instructors.  Whether you want an easy stroll through the stunning mountain scenery or one of the best workouts around, cross country skiing has something to offer you.

Snowshoeing
Snowshoes are a great way to get off the beaten track and explore the snow covered hills of the Southern Alps. The Snow Farm has two, self-guided snowshoe trails that take you past some of the best alpine meadows, rock features and alpine streams the Pisa range has to offer. Each trail takes between 1 and 2 hours complete and is bound to leave you with plenty of awesome photos to remember your trip.

Snow Fun Zone
In the family friendly Snow Fun Zone you can grab a snow tube or a sledge and have a great time on the tubing hill as well as explore the system of snow caves and snow sculptures.  Naturally there is also an area to create your very own snow man or women to include with that perfect family photo.  Let the kids loose while you relax close by in the bar and cafe.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride

Hop aboard the Skyline Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! From which you can take in the awe-inspiring views of this spectacular landscape. Sit back and relax as you enjoy panoramic views of The Remarkables, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak, Coronet Peak and the magnificent Lake Wakatipu.

Driving Instructions from Queenstown to The Remarkables Ski Field

From Queenstown it’s a 40 minute drive to the Remarkables Ski Area.  From the centre of town drive towards the airport, then continue over the Kawarau River and continue on the main road until you see the well signposted entry for the Remarkables Ski Area Access Road. The road to the ski field is a sealed 14 km alpine road, snow chains must be carried.

Today you can choose to visit the Remarkables or Coronet Peak

Today choose whether you want to ski or snowboard at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables.  You can also exchange one day of your superpass for a Coronet Peak Twilight Pass, if this sounds like you visit the Guest Services Desk to swap them over. Remember if the weather doesn't play ball or you need an unexpected rest day you can swap a Superpass day for credit towards off-mountain activities, shopping and many of the great cafes, bars and restaurants in Queenstown.  For a full list of all businesses where you can exchange a superpass day just ask!

The Remarkables Ski Field

The Remarkables offers a laid-back atmosphere which is fantastic for families and those new to skiing or snowboarding. Located just 45 minutes from Queenstown, the Remarkables features a fantastic network of trails with wide, gentle slopes for beginners of all ages and big mountain runs for the experts in the family. With 30% beginners, 40% intermediate and 30% advanced, the Remarkables offers challenges for all levels and for those wanting to progress quickly, the friendly team of instructors can be with you every step of the way. While you're up there don't forget to check out the purpose-built snow tubing lanes before you round off with a steaming hot chocolate or drink at Remarkables cafe. With regular shuttles from Queenstown, lessons for 4yrs+ and complete gear hire on the mountain, this is a fun and easy day out for visitors to the South Island.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Full Day Performance Private Lesson with NZ Ski

You'll enjoy the expertise of your own private Snowsports instructor for a half or full-day private lesson, you'll build on your basic skills, grow in confidence on challenging terrain and iron out any bad habits.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Outdoor Onsen Evening Session with Onsen Hot Pools

Enjoy the most memorable experience in Queenstown and surround yourself with a sky of stars and 14 Japanese lanterns as you soak up the warm waters of the Onsen Hot Pools. Nestled high on a cliffside overlooking the magnificent Shotover River canyon, providing views over the breathtaking alpine scenery and the perfect vantage point to watch the Shotover Jet boats on the river below. The idyllic cedar-lined hot tubs have long been a highlight for Queenstown visitors and locals alike. A unique kiwi twist on a Japanese tradition, these exclusive use pools are filled with pure water from the surrounding mountains which is heated to approx. 38.3 degrees. Ideal for individuals or groups of up to 4 people, all guests receive towels plus a complimentary drink and snack to enjoy during your rejuvenating soak.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Equipment Rental with NZ Ski

Everything you need is available directly on the mountain, no need to carry it all up. You'll find the latest gear, and the on-site technicians keep it in top condition. If you want to swap, exchange, upgrade, or if you find something is not quite right, they'll take care of it on the spot.

Driving Instructions from Queenstown to Coronet Peak Ski Field

From Queenstown, it’s a 20-minute drive to Coronet Peak Ski Area.  From the centre of town it’s well sign-posted to Coronet Peak, approximately 13km out of town. The road to the ski field is a sealed alpine road, snow chains must be carried.

Coronet Peak Ski Field

Want to challenge yourself on exciting terrain in some of the best conditions in the Southern Hemisphere?  Then Coronet Peak should be top of your list. This theme park created by mother nature offers gripping trails and extensive snowmaking facilities, making for complete snow coverage on multiple trails. Coronet is also home to night skiing for a different take on these roller coaster trails try it under lights. For those just getting to know the snow the dedicated learner and novice areas make finding your snow feet easy and all gear can be hired on the mountain. With 25% beginners, 45% intermediate, and 30% advanced, Coronet Peak has the trail for you.  For a break from the snow, enjoy live music at the base building, or wet your whistle with a hot chocolate or cold beverage at Heidi's Hut. The pizza and pasta meals are great for warming you up and giving you an energy boost for the afternoon. There are regular shuttles to and from Queenstown, which is only a 20-minute drive away. 

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Queenstown Ice Bar - suggestion

We recommend a visit to one of Queenstown's ‘must-do’ tourist attractions, the Ice Bars. Queenstown has two bars to choose from, Minus 5° Ice Bar or Below Zero and these are a bucket list item for many visitors.
A variety of drinks are available and you will be wrapped up toasty and warm whilst enjoying the sculpted ice walls, bar, furniture, sculptures and even the glasses.

Last Day.... Coronet or Remarks, you choose?

Ensure you tick off all the runs/hikes you want to get in today. Whether you hike to the summit of Remarks which is directly off the Shadow Basin Chair to get breath-taking views of Queenstown and enjoy the ride down from the top. Or explore the epic terrain that the Rocky Gully T-Bar opens up at Coronet Peak and enjoy lunch at Heidi's Hut.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - NZSki: Coronet Peak Night Ski Pass

An absolute 'must do' in Queenstown. Operating for over twenty years, it's a true favourite with locals and visitors alike, providing a unique evening's entertainment and a memorable snow experience. For this experience head to Coronet Peak for the buzz of skiing under a clear night sky. The Night Ski lift pass gives you access to the slopes from 4:00 pm until 9:00 pm on Wednesday and Friday nights only from mid -June until late-August weather and snow conditions permitting.
Don't own your own gear or snow clothing, or not sure if your skills are up to scratch?
No worries, chat to us about adding rentals and lessons.

Transport Options

Like some help to organise your transport to or from the airport and your accommodation? No worries! Chat to us to find out about the options best suited to you.

Depart Queenstown today

Drop your rental car at the Queenstown airport today.