What is the best ski resort in NZ? Why?

Question

Please help. Also any nice lodges to stay in. Many Thanks.

Answer 1

Mt. Hutt has the best skiing, but it is far away and Methven is small and not very nice.  Wanaka and Queenstown have very good lodging, restaurants, etc.  They are near Coronet Peak, the Remarkables, and Treble Cone.

Answer 2

I live and ski in NZ. The south island is your best bet as Mt Ruapehu (the main ski area in the Nth Is) is notoriously unreliable weather-wise, although it is OK when the weather is good.

Cardrona is my favourite, excellent for beginners and intermediates although genuine experts may tire of it after a couple of days. It has great views around the neighbouring mountains. There is some accommodation on the mountain but most skiers stay at Wanaka about 35 minutes drive. Queenstown is another (larger town) option but you double the driving time. Nevertheless it is seriously scenic. Wanaka is also the base for the Treble Cone field which suits experts more than Cardrona does, whereas Queenstown is the base for the Coronet Peak and Remarkables ski areas. This "Southern Lakes" district is a very good place to start if you have never skied New Zealand before. The snow's at its best in August, which also avoids the July and Sept/Oct school holidays, although that's not a huge problem. If you are willing to move around there are plenty of smaller fields further north, including Ohau, Mt Dobson, Mt Hutt, and several others. Be aware there is little ski in/ski out accommodation in NZ. You have to drive or take shuttles up the mountain roads.

Answer 3

What do you like to do?