Skiing New Zealand

New Zealand is an island nation located in the SW Pacific Ocean, comprising a network of islands and some of the most scenic country to be found anywhere on earth.   The two main islands which make up New Zealand are the South and North islands which are separated by the Cook Strait.   New Zealand is separated from Australia to the NW by the Tasman Sea.   Because of the varied climate in New Zealand you can find both sub-tropical areas and snow-packed ski slopes.   The north island has the major cities of Wellington, Auckland and Hamilton.  The south island has Christchurch, Queenstown and Dunedin. The population is mainly made up of peoples of European descent and the indigenous Maori.  The capital city is Wellington and Auckland is the largest city.

The ski season in New Zealand can vary.  The South Island ski season is generally from the first part of June until October and the North Island from late June to the middle of November.  The skiing and snowboarding areas in New Zealand all offer wonderful wide slopes and varied terrain – but no tree skiing.   There are approximately 24 ski and boarding areas including local ski club areas.

The main ski areas and resorts include:  Whakapapa, Turoa, Mt. Lyford, Porter Heights, Mt. Hutt, Mt. Dobson, Roundhill  Ski Area, Ohau Snowfields,Treble Cone, Cardrona, Snow Farm, Snow Park, Coronet Peak and Remarkables. 

Web site:  www.newzealand.com

Travel Information about New Zealand

Ski New Zealand

• Cardrona
• Whakapapa Ski Area (Mt. Ruapehu)
• Turoa Ski Area  (Mt. Ruapehu)

Ski Insurance

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Cardrona

Cardrona resort is located between Wanaka and Queensland on the South Island.  With the highest elevation at 1,670m it offers a 390m vertical drop, 320 hectares of skiable terrain, as well as three terrain parks, rails, jumps, and four halfpipes.  Skier levels are 55% intermediate, 25% beginner and 20% advanced.  7 lifts including 3 quads. 

Web site:  www.cardrona.com

Whakapapa

MT. RUAPEHU (Whakapapa and Turoa)

Mt. Ruapehu has the advantage of two separate ski area occupying the sides of its mountain and one lift ticket gives you access to both Whakapapa and Turoa. 
Web site:  www.mtruapehu.com

Whakapapa Ski Area

Whakapapa is located on the NW slopes of Mount Ruapehu and Turoa on the SW side.  This is regarded as New Zealand’s largest commercial ski area with plenty of excellent skiing and boarding for all levels of skier.   There are 30 groomed trails and plenty of off-piste skiing for intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders.   The also have a terrain park with half pipe and tobogganing and tubing fun for non-skiers.  The area has a ski school, rentals, shops, cafes and lodging close by.

Web site:  www.mtruapehu.com

Whakapapa Mountain Information:

Highest elevation: 2300 m
Base elevation: 1630m
Vertical drop: 675 m
Skiable terrain 550 ha
Lifts: 14 (2 quad chairs, 5 doubles, 4 T-bars, 2 platters, 1 rope tow)
Skier levels: 25% beginner, 50% intermediate, 25% advanced

Turoa Ski Area

Turoa Ski Area is located on the southwest side of the mountain.   This is a great place for families with a good variety of skiing terrain for all levels.  It is also reported to  be the highest ski area in New Zealand.   Whakapapa and Turoa both have separate ski areas for beginners.   There is a terrain park for boarders and freestylers, as well as cafes, rentals, lessons, shops, and lodging close by. 

Web site:  www.mtruapehu.com.

Turoa Mountain Information:

Highest elevation: 2,322 m
Base elevation:1,600 m
Vertical drop:722m
Lifts: 9 (2 quad, 2 triple, 2 T-bar, 3 platters)
Skiable terrain:1200 acres approx. (500ha) plus off-piste ski areas. 
Longest run:4km
Skier levels: 25% beginner, 50% intermediate, 25% advanced