The South Island landscape is dominated by the Southern Alps and lush native forest. Crystal clear rivers, lakes and fiords carve into the landscape and are perfect for fishing, jet boats, white water rafting and cruises. However, terrific skiing and snowboarding conditions is why many people journey south.

The New Zealand ski season begins in June and lasts until early October, there are 12 commercial ski areas, one Nordic cross-country area and numerous heliskiing operators.

Cardrona is home to the Waiorau Snow Farm and the Cardrona ski fields. Both are only a short distance from Cardrona Chalets and accessible via car.

The Snow Farm provides for cross-country skiers, you can purchase a day pass which is necessary for all skiers on the trails and includes insurance in case something happens and you need to be rescued. Cross country skis, boots and poles are all available for rent and if you need lessons they run group session daily. For more detailed information go to www.snowfarmnz.com.

The Cardrona ski fields are located at a height of 1934 metres high and the view is spectacular, taking in Wanaka, Queenstown and the Alps. Cardrona is suitable for skiers and snowboarders with plenty of natural snow and frequent powder days. The lift capacity caters for approximately 6500 people per hour which means less waiting around and more skiing. The MacDougalls Quad Chairlift services a large learners area with different lines available. The La Franchi Double Chairlift services the Arcadia Basin with great chute skiing right off the chairlift. Captains Basin is a wide open bowl with a gently rolling terrain and wide groomed trails. For more information go to www.cardrona.co.nz.

Other ski fields accessible from Cardrona are:

Coronet Peak - www.nzski.com

• 25 minutes from Queenstown
• Wide and rolling terrain, extensive snow making
• Night skiing
• Ski and snowboard school
• nzskipass , benefits of season pass plus the option of skiing at The Remarkables, Mt Hutt and Ohau.

Remarkables - www.nzski.com

• Queenstown's true alpine ski area
• Beginner to advanced
• Kids well catered for - day care centre
• Three sunny, sheltered bowls
• nzskipass
• Starte Paks - 3 and 5 day packs include a lift pass, skis, boots and poles or snowboard and boots, and group lessons.

Treble Cone - www.treblecone.co.nz

• 35 minutes drive from Wanaka
• 2088metres high at summit
• Largest of the South Islands ski and snowboard areas
• High-speed, detachable six seater chairlift
• 5 lifts spread over three large basins
• Trails to suit all levels.
• Facilities include café and bar, childcare, rental centre, accessory shop, ski and snowboard school and medical centre
• Shuttle service operates from Queenstown and Wanaka daily.

Back