New Zealand is a dream destination for ski and cold-weather lovers from all over the world, offering breathtaking alpine scenery, world-class slopes and delightful winter towns.
Whether you’re carving up the mountains in Queenstown or soaking in the beauty of Milford Sound, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring spots to visit during the winter ski season in this beautiful part of the world.
Here’s a look at some of the best places to explore during the winter ski season in New Zealand’s North and South Islands, including what makes each destination special and the must-do activities while you’re there. We have also included some car rental tips to help you get around!
Top South Island Ski Destinations in New Zealand
The south island of New Zealand is a winter paradise. Visitors flock here from around the globe to experience adrenaline-fuelled activities and unmissable scenery.
Queenstown – The ultimate destination for the winter ski season in New Zealand
Queenstown is recognised all over the world for being the heart of New Zealand’s winter ski season. With world-renowned ski resorts, stunning lake views and a buzzing après-ski scene, it’s the perfect place for adventure seekers. families and anyone who is looking to relax in style.
Highlights of Queenstown during the winter ski season in New Zealand:
- Skiing & snowboarding – Coronet Peak and The Remarkables offer diverse terrain for all skill levels.
- Skyline Queenstown – Take the gondola up for incredible views over Lake Wakatipu.
- Nightlife & dining – Enjoy live music and top-notch restaurants.
Must-do activities:
- Try night skiing at Coronet Peak.
- Take a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River.
- Indulge in a famous Fergburger after a day on the slopes.
Getting there: How to ski Queenstown
Flying into Queenstown Airport is the easiest way to reach the heart of New Zealand’s premier winter playground. Once you land, hiring a car is the best option to get to your lodge, hotel or Airbnb. Queenstown car rental gives you the freedom to explore the destination’s ski fields and other attractions without relying on shuttle schedules, taxis, buses or Ubers during the winter ski season in New Zealand.
Read more: Winter driving in Queenstown
Wanaka – Stunning scenery and laid-back charm for the winter ski season in New Zealand
Just an hour from Queenstown, Wanaka is a quieter but equally breathtaking winter destination. It’s home to incredible ski fields and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. You will love this destination, whether you're on or off the mountain.
Why Ski Wanaka?
Wanaka is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, offering a mix of family-friendly and challenging terrain. The area is home to Cardrona Alpine Resort, known for its well-groomed slopes, excellent facilities for beginners and intermediates, and world-class terrain parks.
Treble Cone, on the other hand, is famous for its steep, off-piste terrain and some of the longest vertical runs in New Zealand, making it ideal for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Wanaka is also a hub for backcountry skiing, with incredible access to untouched powder via heli-skiing.
Off-Mountain Highlights:
- Lake Wanaka – The lake’s beauty is even more striking with snow-covered peaks in the background during the winter ski season in New Zealand.
- Local restaurants & cafes – Perfect for warming up after a chilly day.
Must-do activities:
- Ski or snowboard at Cardrona, known for its well-groomed runs and great facilities.
- Take a scenic drive to Mount Aspiring National Park.
- Visit Puzzling World for a fun and quirky experience.
Getting there: How to ski Wanaka
To get to Wanaka during the winter ski season in New Zealand, you can fly into Queenstown Airport, which is just over an hour’s drive away. From there, car rental is the most convenient way to travel, giving you the freedom to explore the local ski fields. Choosing a rental car allows you to set your own schedule, and if you choose a winter-ready vehicle, you can confidently navigate mountain roads and make the most of the winter ski season in New Zealand.
Want to take the more scenic route? We recommend you fly into Christchurch, hire a car and explore some more parts of the South Island on your way to your destination.
Milford Sound – A winter wonderland
Milford Sound is spectacular year-round, but visiting from June to October adds a magical touch. The crowds are smaller, waterfalls are more powerful, and the snow-dusted peaks create a fairytale-like setting during the winter ski season in New Zealand.
Why Visit Milford Sound?
While Milford Sound isn’t a ski resort destination in itself, it offers a stunning backdrop for winter adventures. Experienced skiers and snowboarders can access remote, untouched snowfields in the Fiordland National Park, with long descents and breathtaking views over the fjords. This area is best suited for those looking for a unique, high-adrenaline skiing experience rather than traditional skiing.
Off-Mountain Highlights:
- Cruising Milford Sound – See dramatic cliffs, waterfalls and wildlife.
- Stunning winter landscapes – Snow-capped mountains enhance the already breathtaking scenery.
- Fewer tourists – Enjoy a more peaceful experience compared to the busy summer months.
Other activities:
- Take a boat cruise through the fjord for unbeatable views.
- Drive the Milford Road, one of New Zealand’s most scenic routes.
- Keep an eye out for playful dolphins and fur seals.
Getting there: How to visit Milford Sound during the winter ski season in New Zealand
Milford Sound is a must-visit wonderland if you’re exploring the South Island during the winter ski season in New Zealand. The closest airport is Queenstown Airport, and the best way to get there is by hiring a car and driving the scenic Milford Road (SH94). This journey takes around four hours, passing through stunning alpine landscapes and the Fiordland National Park. Choosing the car rental option gives you the flexibility to stop at breathtaking lookouts, take short hikes and experience Milford Sound at your own pace—whether you’re heading there for a day trip or staying overnight.
Lake Tekapo – Majestic & family-friendly
Lake Tekapo is a winter paradise, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, it is a top spot for stargazing.
Why Ski Lake Tekapo?
Lake Tekapo is a great option during the winter ski season in New Zealand if you are after a more relaxed, family-friendly skiing experience. Roundhill Ski Area is the main resort, offering wide, gentle slopes perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers. However, it also boasts the longest rope tow in the world, leading to steep terrain for advanced riders. The stunning lake and mountain views add to the charm, and the clear night skies make Tekapo a fantastic après-ski destination for stargazing.
Off-Mountain Highlights:
- Hot pools & spas – Tekapo Springs offers relaxing hot pools with mountain views.
- Church of the Good Shepherd – A must-visit for photographers and sightseers.
- Dark Sky Reserve – Crystal-clear winter nights are perfect for stargazing... you can see the Milky Way from this location all year round.
Other activities:
- Soak in the hot pools at Tekapo Springs.
- Take a guided stargazing tour at Mount John Observatory.
- Capture the beauty of the Church of the Good Shepherd at sunrise or sunset.
Getting there: how to ski Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is easily accessible from both Christchurch (3 hours' drive) and Queenstown (3.5 hours' drive). The best way to get there throughout the winter ski season in New Zealand is with a Queenstown car rental service, as public transport options are limited.
Mt Cook – New Zealand’s highest peak
Aoraki/Mt Cook is the ultimate winter destination for those who love the mountains. With glaciers, alpine walks and incredible scenery, it’s an unforgettable place to visit.
Why Ski Mt Cook?
Mount Cook is best known for its extreme backcountry and heli-skiing opportunities. There are no traditional ski resorts here, but experienced skiers and snowboarders can tackle the high-alpine terrain of the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park with guided ski touring or heli-skiing trips. The region’s massive glaciers and deep powder runs attract serious free-riders looking for a challenge in one of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes.
Off-Mountain Highlights:
- Tasman Glacier – Take a scenic flight or a glacier hike.
- Hooker Valley Track – A stunning walk with views of Mt Cook.
- Unparalleled mountain views – The landscapes here are simply breathtaking.
Must-do activities:
- Go heli-skiing for an adrenaline-filled adventure.
- Explore the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.
- Try an ice climbing experience on the Tasman Glacier.
Getting there: how to ski Mount Cook
Mount Cook is a remote ski destination, with the nearest major town being Twizel, about 45 minutes away. From Christchurch or Queenstown, expect a 4-hour drive. A rental car is the best option if you want to visit during the winter ski season in New Zealand, but check road conditions in winter, as snow and ice can make driving challenging.
Kaikoura – Where the mountains meet the sea
Kaikoura is famous for its wildlife and stunning coastal scenery, with snow-capped peaks providing a dramatic winter backdrop.
Why Ski Kaikoura?
Kaikoura is not known for skiing, but it offers an incredible setting for ski touring and backcountry adventures. With the unique contrast of snow-covered peaks dropping down to the ocean, Kaikoura offers a spectacular off-the-grid experience for adventurous skiers and snowboarders.
Off-Mountain Highlights:
- Seafood – Try the local crayfish, a Kaikoura specialty.
- Coastal walks – Enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains.
Other activities:
- Hike the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway for stunning coastal views.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local eateries.
- Take a helicopter tour for the ultimate adrenalin-filled experience.
Getting there: How to visit Kaikoura
Kaikoura isn’t a traditional ski destination, but it offers backcountry and ski touring opportunities. The town is about 2.5 hours drive from Christchurch, and car rental is necessary, as there’s no public transport to the mountains.
Top North Island Ski Destinations in New Zealand
You can also ski in the North Island of New Zealand if you are visiting this part of the country.
Whakapapa – New Zealand’s Largest Ski Area
Whakapapa, located on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu, is the largest commercial ski field in New Zealand and a must-visit for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With stunning volcanic landscapes and world-class facilities, it’s a top winter destination in the North Island.
Why ski Whakapapa?
Whakapapa offers diverse terrain, from beginner-friendly slopes at Happy Valley to advanced runs on The Pinnacles. The Sky Waka Gondola, one of the most scenic gondola rides in the country, provides breathtaking views of the Central Plateau.
Off-Mountain Highlights
- Tama Lakes Walk – A rewarding hike with stunning views of Mount Ruapehu
- Enjoy a meal at “New Zealand’s Highest Hotel” – Skotel Alpine Resort
Other activities
- Take a scenic ride on the Sky Waka Gondola for panoramic views
- Enjoy après-ski dining at the Knoll Ridge Chalet, New Zealand’s highest restaurant
- Explore Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site
Getting there: How to visit Whakapapa
Whakapapa is located in Tongariro National Park, about a 4.5-hour drive from Auckland or 4 hours from Wellington. The nearest town, National Park Village, offers accommodation and transport options. Car rental is recommended for flexibility in exploring the region if you are visiting from overseas or the South Island.
Turoa – The home of New Zealand’s steepest slopes
Turoa, on the southwestern slopes of Mount Ruapehu, is known for its steep terrain, deep snow, and the country’s highest chairlift, the High Noon Express. It’s a magnet for advanced skiers and snowboarders looking for longer, more thrilling runs.
Why ski Turoa?
Turoa lays claim to New Zealand’s longest vertical drop (722m) and some of the most challenging terrain in the country. The wide-open slopes and natural halfpipes make it a favourite for freeriders and off-piste enthusiasts.
Off-mountain highlights
- Explore Ohakune – A charming ski town known for its après-ski scene and famous carrot statue
- Hike to Waitonga Falls – A stunning alpine waterfall walk near Turoa
Other activities
- Enjoy snow play and tobogganing at Alpine Meadow
- Visit the Ohakune Carrot Adventure Park, a fun stop for families
- Warm up with hot chocolate at one of Ohakune’s cosy cafés
Getting there: How to visit Turoa
Turoa is 4.5 hours from Auckland and 4 hours from Wellington by car. The nearest town, Ohakune, is just a 20-minute drive from the ski field and offers accommodation, rentals, and transport options. If you are visiting from overseas or the South Island, car rental is essential for accessing the mountain.
Hiring a car for your winter ski season adventure in New Zealand
The best way to reach these locations is by flying into the nearest airport and picking up a rental car. This way, you can take in the scenery, stop at hidden gems along the way and enjoy a hassle-free experience.
- Queenstown – Fly into Queenstown Airport and hire a car so you can make the most of the location, or fly into Christchurch, rent a car and enjoy the scenery along the way.
- Milford Sound – Start from Queenstown and enjoy the stunning four-hour drive.
- Lake Tekapo & Mt Cook – Fly into Christchurch and take a scenic drive through the Canterbury region.
- Kaikoura – Land in Christchurch and drive north along the coast for around two and a half hours.
- Wanaka – Fly into Queenstown or Christchurch and drive (around an hour from Queenstown and five hours from Christchurch).
With reliable car rental in New Zealand, you can make the most of your winter ski season adventure, taking in all the sights at your own pace.
The best car to hire for a New Zealand ski holiday
When planning a ski trip in New Zealand, having the right rental vehicle makes all the difference. You’ll need a car that can handle icy roads, provide enough space for gear and keep you comfortable on long drives through alpine terrain.
A 7-seater Mitsubishi Outlander is an excellent choice during the winter ski season in New Zealand. This vehicle offers all-wheel drive (AWD), which improves traction on snowy or slippery roads. The car also has high ground clearance, making it easier to navigate mountain passes and ski resort access roads.
The Mitsubishi Outlander is perfect for families or groups, with plenty of boot space for skis, snowboards and luggage. It also features heated seats, keeping you warm after a long day on the slopes.
Other options include:
- Nissan X-Trail AWD
- Subaru XV AWD
You can also talk to us about trailer hire.
Whichever option you go with, choosing quality car rental from a reliable New Zealand provider ensures you can explore New Zealand’s best ski destinations safely and comfortably.
Driving during the winter ski season in New Zealand: Do you need snow chains?
If you're travelling on high-country or alpine roads in the South Island during winter, it's wise to carry snow chains. Certain routes, like Lindis Pass, which links Christchurch with Lake Wanaka and Lake Pukaki, should only be driven with chains when snow is present. Other roads requiring caution include Lewis Pass, Arthur’s Pass, Porters Pass, and The Crown Range.
The Queenstown Lakes District Council advises carrying snow chains throughout winter, regardless of your destination. On roads where chains are required, you'll find designated pull-over areas where you can safely fit them.
New Zealand law mandates carrying snow chains on specific routes. If you're heading to Milford Sound in winter, for instance, chains are a legal requirement. Ignoring signs instructing you to fit snow chains can result in fines.
Only use snow chains when there is snow on the road or when signage indicates they’re needed. Driving on dry roads with chains can reduce traction when braking and may damage your vehicle.
When you hire a car with Rental Cars 247, you'll receive the information you need about snow chains and how to drive safely during the winter ski season in New Zealand.
See more: Winter ski season driving in New Zealand
5 tips for a better New Zealand ski holiday
- Book accommodation early
The winter ski season in New Zealand is popular, and accommodation in towns like Queenstown and Wanaka fills up fast during peak season. To get the best options—especially if you want to stay close to the slopes—book well in advance. - Go with car rental for flexibility
Many of the best ski fields, like The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, and Treble Cone, are a short drive from town but aren’t always easy to reach without your own transport. Car rental gives you the freedom to visit different mountains, explore at your own pace, and take advantage of the best snow conditions each day. - Check the weather and snow reports daily
New Zealand’s weather can change quickly, so staying updated on ski field conditions, road closures, and avalanche risks will help you plan your day and make the most of your time on the slopes. - Layer up for unpredictable weather
Mountain weather varies throughout the day, so dress in layers to stay warm and dry. A waterproof jacket, thermal base layers and a good pair of gloves are essential. - Experience après-ski beyond the slopes
New Zealand’s ski towns offer more than skiing and snowsports. Take a soak in the hot pools in Tekapo, enjoy wine tasting in Central Otago, or try jet boating in Queenstown for an unforgettable après-ski experience.
The winter ski season in New Zealand offers some of the world's best experiences, from epic ski fields to breathtaking fjords. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, soaking in hot pools or admiring snow-covered mountains, there’s something for everyone.
Choose Rental Cars 247 for your ski season adventure
Rental Cars 247 is your value-for-money car rental company in Auckland, Christchurch and Queenstown, New Zealand. We provide high quality, reliable, and affordable car rental services in Auckland, Christchurch and Queenstown, and we go the extra mile to ensure we deliver an optimal customer experience with each car hire.
Our clients trust us to provide them with the best car hire service that’ll help them get to their destination!
