Your First Time on Snow?
START HERE. YOU’RE GOING TO LOVE IT.
Your first day on snow should feel exciting, achievable, and unforgettable. There’s no better place to begin than Coronet Peak. This beginner-friendly guide is designed to make those first turns feel easy, exciting, and completely doable.
As New Zealand’s first commercial ski resort, we’ve been welcoming first turns, big smiles, and breakthrough moments since 1947.
Great terrain, expert coaching, and a mountain built for progression mean you’re in good hands from your very first slide.
fIRST tIMERS gUIDE
Whether it’s your first time on snow or your first visit to Coronet Peak, there’s no better place to start.
From gentle beginner terrain and easy-to-use lifts to expert instructors who build confidence fast, learning here feels exciting from the very first run.
For more experienced skiers and snowboarders, Coronet Peak offers everything from playful groomers to technical terrain - all set against Queenstown’s iconic alpine backdrop.
With Night Ski, vibrant après, and a mountain culture that’s been creating unforgettable days since 1947, your next great snow experience starts here.
Planning Your day
A little planning goes a long way to unlockingGood Times. Here’s how to make your experience at The Peak smooth from sunrise to last lap.
1 - Plan your arrival
Catch the Ski Bus:
It's the easiest way to get yourself up and down the mountain with your gear. Bookings are required and if you've got a lesson booked (recommended) make sure you reserve your seat on the early Bus to make your lesson on time!
Driving up?
Aim to arrive on the mountain an hour before you plan to be on the snow. This allows time to park, get to the base building, gear up and catch a coffee.
Weather can change quickly in the alpine, so always carry snow chains and know how to fit them. Snow chain calls for the road will be communicated on our Snow Report (updated daily from 6:30am).
Car parks, shuttles & drop zone
the easy way to snow
Coronet Peak has 7 car parks available. During peak season and on powder days, they can fill up quickly so plan ahead and allow plenty of time to drive, park, get to the base build, sort your gear and then hit the snow.
Got a car full of snow-lovers? Use our Drop Zone in front of the base building to unload your gear and passengers before heading down to park. It’s the easiest way to get the crew on snow.
Free Shuttles run continuously between our ca parks and the base building. Just hop on at the signed pickup locations, no bookings needed. Heading back to the car? Easy. Just catch a return shuttle.
If you’re parked in our top car parks you can also follow the signed walking path straight to the base building. ideal for those chasing a little warm up.
TOP TIP: Check the Snow Report before heading up. This is updated from 6:30am with mountain, road and car parking conditions.
Snow Report
Weather updates
Your best source for mountain conditions
What do I need?
Our Top Picks for First Timers
At Coronet Peak, we’ve got a range of ski passes, lessons, & rentals to match your adventure. We’ve picked out a few of our favourites that we think will get you shredding in no time!
Pick the pass that fits your pace
If you want to access more of the mountain, then consider the Superpass.
Superpass
- A full day, all-access Lift Pass
- Choose to ski at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Mt Hutt and 9 more New Zealand ski areas
- Ski any day! No bookings required and no holiday blackouts
- Fully flexible, swap unused days for off-mountain activities if you need a rest or the weather isn't on
Learner Area Pass
- Full day access to the beginner surface lifts
- Option to progress to more advanced terrain in the afternoon
- Great value for getting started on the slopes. Cheaper than a Superpass, and ideal if you’re only planning to access beginner terrain.
- Upgrade options available for fast learners
Progress with a lesson
After a more budget-friendly option? Group Lessons still deliver great coaching and will have you improving in no time.
Group Lesson
- Great for early progression
- Ideal for first timers through to advanced Red Zone skiers and riders
- Build your skills from quality coaching and avoid developing bad habits
- Small groups for focused coaching, you'll be grouped with others of similar ability
- Looking for something more advanced? Check out Technique Tune Ups or Private Lessons
Full Day Private Lesson
- 1-on-1 coaching for you or up to 6 of your mates with a world-class coach
- Caters to all abilities
- Tailored specifically to you, matching your experience, the skills you want to improve and the conditions
- Priority lift access
- Looking for something more advanced? Check out our Performance Privates
Carve it up with our quality rental gear
Enhanced Control: Performance skis are designed for precision - ideal for carving tight turns, gliding over powder, or speeding down groomers.
Tailored to Conditions: With sharper edges, varied widths, and advanced materials, our performance gear allows you to adapt to the snow type and terrain, making every run smoother and more exhilarating.
Custom Feel: Performance gear provides a more personalised fit, enhancing comfort and reducing fatigue, so you can ski longer and stronger.
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Recreational Rentals
We offer a wide range of ski and snowboard equipment, regularly tuned and maintained to keep you riding smoothly.
- Book consecutive days & save
- Includes: skis/snowboard, boots and poles/wrist guards, helmet
- Professional fitting from our experienced staff
Performance Rentals
Whether you’re looking for speed, agility, or all-day comfort, performance skis give you the edge to carve up the mountain.
- Enhanced control, personalised fit and flexibility for conditions
- Book consecutive days & save
- Includes: skis/snowboard, boots and poles/wrist guards, helmet
- Professional fitting from our experienced staff
Need it all? Grab a Package
Please note, you'll need to hire clothing separately.
Goggles and gloves are not included in our rental equipment for hygiene reasons, but you can purchase these on the mountain in our retail shop.
First Timer Package
First day on snow? We’ve got you sorted so you can just show up and have a crack.
- Learner Area Lift Pass for access to beginner terrain with great progression
- Group Lesson from 10am - 3:30pm with small groups
- Equipment Rentals - skis/boots, poles/wrist guards boots & helmet
Lift, Lesson & Rental Package
- Full Day Lift Pass for access 9am - 4pm
- Group Lesson from 10am - 3:30pm in small groups
- Equipment Rental: skis/boots, poles/wrist guards boots & helmet
- Book more days & save
2 - Sort Your MyPass Card
Everyone needs a MyPass Card to use the products they’ve purchased. It gives you access to the conveyors and chairlifts, as well as any rental gear, lessons or Queenstown Ski Bus rides you have bought. You can collect your MyPass Card two ways:
Kiosks: Scan your order barcode in your order confirmation email at any self-service kiosk on-mountain, at the Snow Centre (25 Shotover St), or beside baggage claim at Queenstown Airport.
Guest Services: Visit our team at Coronet Peak, or the Snow Centre (25 Shotover St).
facilities
3 - Coronet Peak Map & Facilities
Renting Gear from us? Visit our friendly rental team in the base building. They'll get you fitted and kitted for a great day on the snow. We can sort you with clothing, skis/snowboard, boots, poles and helmets. Allow at least 30 minutes to get fitted.
Skiing back to back days? Our overnight storage is a great option for a fast pickup the next day. Drop it off at our Rentals area when you're finished for the day. We'll keep your equipment together and ready for you to pick up in the morning. Subject to availability.
The Coronet Peak Snowsports School has you sorted. From first-timer lessons and confidence-building kids’ programmes to private coaching from world-class performance instructors.
Whether you’re clipping in for the first time or fine-tuning your turns, our qualified coaches know how to meet you where you’re at and help you push a bit further.
Lesson options range from a couple of hours to full-day and multi-day programmes.
Our Guest Services desk is located at the entrance of the base building. We recommend pre-purchasing products before your day on the maunga; however, if you need to make a purchase on the day or have a query, our Guest Services team are happy to help.
Purchased your passes online? With your email confirmation, you can skip the queue and collect your passes from our self-service kiosks, located outside the base lodge at car park level.
For an extra smooth day on the slopes, sort you MyPass & Rentals out the day before by swinging into our Queenstwon Snow Centre at 25 Shotover Street. Less time sorting things out and a lot more Good Times.
Swing by the Workshop right here on the mountain. Whether it’s a busted binding, a base grind or just a bit of wax to keep you sliding, our crew have the tools and know-how to sort you out and get you back out there. Too easy.
Refresh your gear or replace that missing glove with a visit to our on-mountain retail shop. The Coronet Peak store stocks a range of current ski gear like helmets, jackets, pants & goggles to help keep you comfortable on the hill.
You'll also find the basics here to help make the most of your day, from sunscreen to basic accessories, we got you.
Looking for something to remember your Good Times at The Peak? Our merch range includes beanies, epic T-shirts and hoodies, an easy way to take a piece of the maunga home with you.
4 - Choose Your Terrain
Plan Your Lines
Start on the Conveyor Carpets in the Learner’s Area - ideal for first timers and kids with gentle, easy slopes.
Next, head to Meadows Express for wide green trails like Big Easy, perfect for learning turns and gaining confidence.
5 - know the snow Responsibility code
Stay safe & have fun
When skiing or snowboarding at Mt Hutt, it’s important to understand and follow the Snow Responsibility Code to ensure both your own and others’ safety on the mountain.
Limit your speed in busy areas. Match your speed to surrounding skiers and riders and be prepared for others to make sudden changes in direction or speed.
Stay 5m from others - If less than 5m from others you must slow down. The faster you go the more space you must give others.
Give way to those downhill and look before you leap.
Snowboarders: take care turning onto your heel edge.
Only stop where you can be seen from above and always look uphill before moving again. Only stop on the edge of trails or beside fixed objects.
Waterproof outerwear
Base layers (thermals)
mid-layer optional
helmets
goGgles or sunglasses
gloves & Socks
Not skiing?
There is so much more!
Beyond the slopes, you’ll discover a variety of non-skiing activities along with food and drink options well worth exploring. So whether you’ve decided skiing isn’t your thing, or you just need to recharge after a few leg-burning laps, there’s always something here to keep the good times rolling.
Need to refuel?
Kai, Bevy’s and more
heidi's hot tub
Need we say more...
More Mountain Details
Facilities, Storage & More
faqs
Coronet Peak is just 16km from central Queenstown and is accessed via a fully sealed alpine road. You can either drive yourself or take our daily Ski Bus from town, which is a great option if you prefer not to drive.
If you're driving, snow chains must be carried at all times, regardless of the weather in town. Chain use is often required after fresh snowfall or icy conditions. We recommend doing a practice fit before you need them. For real-time road conditions and chain updates, always check our Daily Snow Report before heading up.
Yes. The Superpass gives you full flexibility to ski Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, or even Mt Hutt, all on one pass. You don’t have to choose your mountain in advance, making it perfect for travellers who want to check the weather and decide on the day.
The more days you purchase, the more you save. And if the weather changes or you need a rest day, you can use your Superpass for select off-mountain activities in Queenstown or save it for later in the season.
A great ski day starts with knowing your limits, following mountain signage and taking your time while learning. Stay in control, give others space, and always stop in visible areas. If you’re unsure where to start, a lesson is the best way to build confidence safely. Check out our Mountain Safety Guide for more tips & tricks to keep your ski day safe & fun.
Planning a ski or snowboard day at Coronet Peak? Here’s what you’ll need to bring to make the most of your time on the mountain – whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned shredder.
Essential gear to bring:
- Warm, waterproof outerwear (jacket and pants)
- Base layers (thermal or merino)
- Gloves or mittens
- Goggles or sunglasses
- Helmet (required for lessons – rentals available)
- Thick socks (ski or snowboard-specific recommended)
- MyPass card or booking QR code
- Water bottle and snacks
- Sunscreen and lip balm
Don’t have all the gear? No worries. We offer ski and snowboard rentals, including clothing and helmets, right at the base building. Our Rental Centre has everything you need for a full day on snow.
We keep things simple up here at Coronet Peak. Everything you need for a smooth day on the snow is right at base, no mucking about.
Facilities
You’ll find bathrooms, changing areas, outside storage for easy access, and paid storage lockers in our Base Building. Whether you're travelling light or toting the full whānau setup, we’ve got space to stash your gear while you hit the slopes.
Rentals
First time up the hill? Travelling light? Our on-mountain Rental Centre has you sorted with skis, snowboards, boots, helmets and waterproof outerwear.
Food & Coffee
We have a range of cafes & restaurants on-mountain to keep you fueled for the day whether you're looking for a hearty meal, quick snack, or a cheeky aperol to end your day on a high, we've got something to match your speed.
Lessons
Whether it's their first slide or they’re ready to level up, our ski and snowboard lessons are run by qualified instructors who know how to keep it fun and confidence-building for both kids and adults.
Getting Around
We’ve made getting around easy. From our fast lifts to our free car park shuttles running all day between lower lots. No need to carry all the gear uphill.
Extras
We’ve got free Wi-Fi at base, water refill stations, and a team of legends on hand to help you out. Got a question? Just ask, we’re all about making your day epic.
Wait your turn
- Line up in the lift queue and wait your turn before sliding forward to the chair loading zone.
Load with an experienced adult
- If you are over 120cm tall you can ride the lift by yourself.
- If you are under 120cm you must ride the lift with an adult
- If you are riding the chairlift with a friend, get your adult to sit between you both to help you on and off.
- Only you and one friend can ride with one adult, if you have lots of friends in your group, other adults will be asked to help.
Sit back-to-back
- Sit all the way to the back of the chairlift so your back is touching the back rest.
Put the safety bar down
- If you are tall enough you can pull the safety bar down, but if you can’t reach it let the adult put it down for you.
Sit still and hold on
- Once you are on the chair and the safety bar is down, sit still and hold on until you are up the top of the mountain.
Let the adult raise the bar and tell you when to slide off
- When you reach the top of the mountain, don’t rush to get off. Wait until you can touch the ground then slide off and enjoy your day.
Our Snowsports team is made up of certified professionals with top-tier training. Every lesson is structured to match your ability, comfort level, and conditions on the day. We start with clear safety briefings, keep group sizes manageable, and focus on steady progression - from first balance to first carve.
You'll also learn the Snow Responsibility Code along the way, so you're not just riding better, but riding with awareness of others on the mountain.
Safety is at the heart of every first turn at Coronet Peak. Our beginner zones are carefully designed with gentle slopes, soft fall lines, and dedicated Conveyor Carpets to make learning smooth and secure. You'll always find our expert instructors nearby — trained to guide, encourage, and make sure everyone’s building confidence at their own pace.
- Start on the Surface Convayor Lifts – Beginner terrain is where confidence is built.
- Look ahead – Keep your eyes up and focus on where you want to go.
- Follow mountain signs – Obey all posted signs and listen to ski patrol.
- Take regular breaks – Tired legs increase your risk of falling.
- Move aside after a fall – Clear the trail before getting up.
- Dress in layers – Stay warm, dry, and ready for changing weather.
- Wear a helmet – Protect your head with proper snow sports gear.
Tip: Helmets are recommended for all riders and are included in all rental packages. Layer up, wear gloves, and follow the signs, they’re there to help you ride smart.
Our lifts are open daily from 9am – 4pm, subject to weather conditions.
Our on-mountain Guest Services and Rentals aim to open from 8am daily, so you’ve got time to get sorted before heading out.
First Tracks: 8am – 9am on Saturday & Sunday from July.
The season kicks off in June and runs through early October. July school holidays bring the busiest crowds, so plan ahead and book early to lock in the magic.
All of your products will be loaded to your MyPass Card. This is essentially your ticket to the mountain, to access the lifts at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables or Mt Hutt you will need a MyPass Card assigned to your profile with your products loaded onto it.
Skied with us before?
- Great, welcome back! If you already have your MyPass card, you can use this again to access our lifts, pick up your rentals, or to join your Snowsports lesson.
Purchased online?
- You can collect your MyPass Card by scanning the barcode in your confirmation email at one of our Kiosks or by visiting Guest Services.
- Using the Kiosk: Simply scan the barcode in your confirmation email and the Kiosk will print your MyPass card - from there you can head straight to the lift.
Thank you for your submission!
