Queenstown + Winter = Even More Magic!
Beautiful lake & snow-capped mountain vistas. Hot chocolate drinks, roaring fireplaces, fine dining, and Après Ski. Queenstown is sensational in the winter. But what to do with your winter activity time in Queenstown? You’ll be pleased to know that in winter, beyond the expected snow activities, you’ll be able to do nearly all the summer activities, but prettier, with snow! We have the obvious choices – Skiing & snowboarding, and we’ll talk about them, but first let’s discuss some other snow sports you might not have tried:
Snowmobiling
Have you cruised across snow at 6,000ft above sea level with a motor between your legs and snow under your sleds? Snowmobiling is an incredibly fun winter sport that anyone, regardless of skill level, can enjoy! In Queenstown, our snowmobiling comes with an added bonus: a 15-minute heli ride to and from the fields! With modern Polaris snowmobiles, the slopes all to yourself, and snow all around, you’ll be having a ball!
Snowmoto
A step up from snowmobiling in adrenaline, snowmoto slaps a ski to a dirt bike and gets your heart pounding! It’s as wild as it sounds, is an absolute blast, and can be done in a sampler, half-day, or full-day experience (we really recommend the full day!). They even have some overnight adventures featuring cabin camping on the mountaintop and 2 days of adrenaline and fun.
Snowcat Tour
Something a little more sedate, but still motor-powered? Snowcat tours get you on the mountain, away from the crowds, and exploring untouched snow! Enjoy a serene and scenic experience with guided tours that take you through beautiful winter landscapes.
Snowshoeing
If you prefer a more leisurely pace, snowshoeing offers a fantastic way to explore the winter wonderland of Queenstown. Traverse through snowy trails and enjoy the quiet beauty of nature. Basecamp Adventures offers snowshoeing tours that take you off the beaten path into the serene backcountry of The Remarkables. Their tours are suitable for all ages and fitness levels, providing all necessary equipment and ensuring a safe and memorable experience. Whether you choose a half-day adventure or an extended overnight trip, you’ll be treated to stunning alpine views and a peaceful escape from the crowds
Skiing / Snowboarding
Of course, we are going to talk about skiing! Everyone knows Queenstown has great snow fields available. The region is renowned for its world-class ski resorts, offering varied terrain and stunning alpine views. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Queenstown’s ski fields provide the perfect winter playground.
Cardrona/Treble Cone
Cardrona Alpine Resort is a fantastic destination for both beginners and advanced skiers. It offers a balanced mix of beginner-friendly slopes and challenging terrains. Known for its expansive parks, pipes, and freeride terrain, Cardrona promises fun and excitement for everyone. The resort also provides stunning views of the Harris Mountains from the top of McDougall’s and Captains’ chair lifts.
Cardrona is not just for skiers and snowboarders. The resort offers a variety of non-skiing activities such as sledding, which is perfect for families and those looking to enjoy the snow without hitting the slopes. Additionally, the gondola ride provides breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine scenery, making it a must-do activity even for non-skiers.
Treble Cone
Renowned for its breathtaking views and the longest runs in the country, is perfect for experienced skiers. Located near Wanaka, it offers steep terrain and natural half pipes, providing thrilling rides and spectacular views of Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring National Park.
Treble Cone also offers sightseeing opportunities with its scenic chairlift rides, allowing visitors to experience the stunning alpine vistas without needing to ski. This makes it a great option for those who want to enjoy the winter beauty from above.
Remarkables / Coronet Peak
The Remarkables
The Remarkables Ski Area offers varied terrain for every skill level, from beginners to advanced skiers. It features world-class backcountry access, fun terrain parks, and a friendly atmosphere. The Burton Stash terrain park, with playful features and wooden rails, is a favorite among freestyle enthusiasts. The Remarkables also cater to non-skiers with activities such as sledding and snow tubing, which are fun for all ages. The gondola ride to the top provides stunning views of the Queenstown region and is a fantastic way to appreciate the alpine beauty.
Coronet Peak
Just a short drive from Queenstown, is known for its spectacular views and diverse terrain. It offers night skiing sessions with live music and great food, making it a perfect spot for those who can’t get enough of the snow. The First Tracks program allows you to ski freshly groomed pistes at sunrise, providing an unforgettable experience. For non-skiers, Coronet Peak offers scenic chairlift rides and sledding activities, allowing everyone to enjoy the snow and stunning views.
Harris Mountains Heli-Ski
For those looking to take their skiing experience to the next level, Harris Mountains Heli-Ski offers an unparalleled adventure. Operating in Queenstown, Harris Mountains Heli-Ski provides access to untouched powder snow in the spectacular Southern Alps. Their professional guides ensure a safe and thrilling experience, taking you to some of the best skiing terrains in the region. Whether you are an advanced skier or snowboarder, heli-skiing with Harris Mountains offers an extraordinary way to experience the beauty and thrill of Queenstown’s backcountry. This premium service includes multiple runs, gourmet lunch, and the chance to explore terrain that is inaccessible by lifts
But Everything Else is Still Fun in Winter Too!
Hot Air Ballooning
Experience the stunning winter landscapes of Queenstown from above in a hot air balloon. The serene beauty of the snow-covered mountains and valleys is unmatched. The crisp winter air provides perfect visibility, making your aerial views even more spectacular. Floating high above the snow-blanketed peaks and frozen lakes, you’ll capture breathtaking photos and memories.
Dart River Adventure
Embark on a thrilling jet boat ride through the Dart River, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine wilderness. A unique winter adventure! The icy waters and snow-draped banks create a mesmerizing backdrop, adding a layer of beauty and excitement to the high-speed journey. This experience is enhanced by the quiet and calm that winter brings to the region.
Glacier Helicopter
Visit Take a helicopter tour to the glaciers and witness the awe-inspiring ice formations up close. Land on the glaciers and explore this icy wonderland. The pristine winter conditions make the glaciers even more dazzling, with the sun reflecting off the ice and snow. This adventure provides an extraordinary perspective on the frozen landscapes and is a must-do for any winter visit.
Earnslaw & Farm Visit with Lunch Cruise across Lake Wakatipu on the historic TSS Earnslaw, then visit a working farm for a delicious lunch and a glimpse into rural life. The winter setting adds a cozy charm to the journey, with snow-covered hills surrounding the lake and the warmth of the farmhouse providing a delightful contrast. Enjoy hearty, seasonal meals while learning about farm life in a picturesque winter wonderland.
Skydiving For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try skydiving over Queenstown. The views of the snow-covered landscape from above are simply spectacular. Winter skydiving offers a unique experience as you freefall through crisp, cold air, with the stunning backdrop of snowy peaks and valleys. It’s an exhilarating way to see the beauty of Queenstown in winter from a completely different perspective.
Wine Tour Explore the local wineries and vineyards on a wine tour. Enjoy tastings of the region’s finest wines while taking in the beautiful winter scenery. The vineyards are particularly enchanting in winter, with the vines dormant and the surrounding mountains dusted with snow. Warm up with a glass of Pinot Noir by a fireplace, and savor the rich flavors that this renowned wine region offers.
In Conclusion!
No matter how you choose to spend your winter days in Queenstown, we are here to help make your trip unforgettable. From exhilarating snow sports and scenic tours to cozy indoor activities and gourmet experiences, Queenstown offers something for everyone. At Hello Queenstown, we are dedicated to providing exceptional booking and concierge services for all the activities mentioned above. Whether you’re looking to book a snowmobiling adventure, a hot air balloon ride, or a relaxing wine tour, our team ensures seamless and personalized planning to suit your preferences. Explore our offerings and start planning your perfect winter getaway today by visiting our website. Let us take care of the details, so you can focus on creating memories in this winter paradise.