Ski Queenstown Guide
Coronet Peak
Queenstown is known worldwide as the adventure capital of New Zealand and when winter arrives, it transforms into a snow lover’s dream. Think alpine views, world-class ski terrain, and an après scene that keeps the good times rolling long after the lifts close.
Home to two iconic ski areas Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, Queenstown delivers an unforgettable mountain experience for every style of rider. From sunrise laps at Coronet Peak to big freeride vibes at The Remarkables, whichever way you turn, you’re in for something special.
Coronet Peak has been part of the Queenstown story since 1947. As New Zealand’s first commercial ski field and just 20 minutes from town, it’s the local favourite, built for early-morning carves on fresh corduroy and unforgettable Night Ski sessions under the stars.
Planning your Queenstown ski trip? This guide has everything you need to make the most of your time on snow. Packed with local tips, practical advice, and insider know-how, it’ll help you ride like a regular from day one.
Why Ski in Queenstown?
Queenstown delivers unbeatable alpine views, fresh mountain air, and a big dose of adventure.
Beyond the slopes, Queenstown is famous for its vibrant après ski scene. Think cosy restaurants, buzzing bars, and plenty to do once the lifts stop spinning.
Getting to the snow is easy. Coronet Peak is just a 16km drive or bus ride from town, so you can go from flat white to first chair in no time. The Remarkables is only 23km from Queenstown, so whether you’re here for a week or a long weekend, it’s easy to fit skiing into your Queenstown plans.
Best times to visit Queenstown
The Queenstown ski season runs from June to early October, with each month offering a different vibe. Here’s a quick snapshot to help you choose when to visit:
June
Quiet slopes and a relaxed start to winter. Ideal for early lessons and easing into the season. Coronet Peak opens first thanks to its Snow Factory which guarantees early season snow coverage on beginner terrain and a great snow sledding area.
July
Peak winter energy with school holidays, extra Night Ski sessions, and plenty happening for families.
August
A sweet spot for snow conditions and fewer crowds, with legendary Night Ski parties lighting up the mountain.
September
Spring skiing brings sunshine, softer snow, and a laid-back feel — with the chance of a late-season powder day.
Queenstown Ski Areas
Queenstown is home to two ski fields: Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. Both are easy to get to and offer something a little different, from terrain and layout to the type of experience you’ll find on the snow.
Coronet Peak
Just 20 minutes from town, Coronet Peak is Queenstown’s local, made for fast laps, golden sunrises, and snow-filled good times at every level.
Established in 1947, Coronet is New Zealand’s first commercial ski field, with 280 hectares of terrain, 3 chairlifts including a high-speed 6-seater chair with gondola cabins, 1 T bar, and 3 surface lifts. From wide-open groomers and epic rollercoaster terrain to gentle learner slopes, The Peak is where generations have learned to ski and ride. Early riser? Catch First Tracks for untouched corduroy and sunrise views. Keen for more? Carve under the lights at Night Ski, or push your limits in the Race Arena, home to world-class athletes.
With on-mountain rentals and lessons for all abilities, performance is always within reach. Got little shredders? Skiwiland offers snow play and childcare, so you can enjoy the mountain while they’re having a blast.
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The Remarkables
Just 24km from Queenstown, The Remarkables delivers a big mountain feel with 385 hectares of terrain, steep chutes, playful bowls, and world-class learner areas. With 7 lifts (4 chairs, 3 conveyors) and a layout designed for progression, it’s built for every kind of rider, from first timers to freeride pros.
Start in the beginner’s zone near the base, gear up on-site, and level up with friendly, experienced instructors. From mellow greens to black diamond steeps, and from long groomers to terrain parks, The Remarks makes it easy to grow your confidence lap by lap. Freestylers can hit 3 dedicated terrain parks, including The Burton Stash, one of only six in the world. Chasing a freeride feel? Drop into sun-soaked bowls or world-renowned chutes.
Whether you’re chasing the next challenge or just cruising the blues, The Remarkables has the terrain to take you there.
can't decide?
ski both
Why choose when you can have it all? With Coronet Peak and The Remarkables right on your doorstep, it’s easy to ski the best of Queenstown.
The Superpass is your all-in-one lift pass, built for flexibility. One Superpass = one full-day lift pass at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, or Mt Hutt, no need to lock in which mountain in advance. Just wake up, check the conditions, and choose your adventure.
Planning ahead? The more days you book, the more you save with multi-day Superpasses, perfect for longer ski holidays or mixing up your mountain days.
And if the weather shifts or you’re ready for a rest day, you’re still sorted. You can swap a Superpass day for a range of off-mountain activities in Queenstown or save it for later in the season at any Superpass partner ski field.
Passes, Lessons & Rentals
Our Top Picks
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
Just starting out? The Learner Area Pass offers the best value for accessing beginner terrain.
The Parent Pass is also a fantastic option if you're taking turns watching the kids. Hit the All Passes link below for the full run down on Lift Pass options.
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
Parents know that feeling when advice falls on death ears - book a lesson and everyone wins.
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
Premium Family Private
Create unforgettable memories together on the mountain with a full-day, family-focused coaching experience.
- Your group is matched with an instructor chosen for their experience coaching families and creating fun, confidence-building days on snow
- Tailored progression for everyone
- Priority lift access
Carve it Up with our quality rental gear
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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
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Jacket & Pants Rental
We’ve got you covered with jackets and trousers to keep you warm, dry, and ready for an epic day on the snow.
- Quality clothing to keep you warm & dry
- Wide range to ensure great fit
Packages
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
Ski Gear & Rentals
Sorting your ski or snowboard gear is easier than you think, and we’re here to help you get it right before you hit the snow.
What You Can Rent
We offer rental packages for skis, snowboards, boots, poles and helmets, plus jackets and pants available as separate add-ons. You can hire gear for just one day or multiple, and if you’re skiing a few days in a row, we offer overnight storage on-mountain (subject to availability).
What You’ll Need to Bring or Buy
We don’t rent gloves or goggles, so you’ll need to bring your own or pick them up from our on-mountain retail store while you're up, we stock all your ski trip essentials.
Where to Rent
The easiest way to purchase your rental gear is online when buying your lift passes. Once you're here, you pick it up from our on-mountain Rental Centre at Coronet Peak when you arrive for your snow day.
Your Queenstown Ski Trip Checklist
Whether it’s your first time on snow or you’re a seasoned skier, packing right can make all the difference.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Waterproof outerwear
Base lAYERS (Thermals)
Mid-Layer (Optional)
helmet
Goggles or Sunglasses
gloves & Socks
Sunscreen & lip balm
Snacks & Water
Snow chains
Getting to
coronet peak
We're just a short 20-minute trip from Queenstown, whether you’re catching the Ski Bus or driving yourself.
Book the ski bus
Our Ski Bus runs daily from central Queenstown and is the easiest way to get up the hill without the stress. Book early, especially if you’ve got a lesson or First Tracks booked. Check the timetable to match your start time.
dRIVE
We’re only 16km from town via a sealed alpine road. A 4WD isn’t required, but snow chains must be carried at all times and used when the Snow Report calls for it. Make sure to check the snow report before you head up for the day, so you're all prepped and know what to expect. Pro tip: do a practice run fitting your chains before you need them. It’s worth it.
Snow report
Weather Updates
Your best source for mountain conditions
Apres ski
The lifts might stop spinning, but the good times definitely don’t. Queenstown is packed with buzzing après spots, and up on Coronet Peak, we’ve got a few favourites of our own.
West End Eatery
Located in our Base Building, this is the perfect spot to warm up and refuel. Grab a mulled wine, kick back in the lounge or catch the sun on the deck while your legs take a well-earned break.
Heidi’s Hut
Tucked away at the bottom of the Rocky Gully T-Bar, Heidi’s is our locals’ après hideaway. Expect gourmet pizzas, hearty pasta, local wine and cold beers, all served fireside, just metres from the snow.
Aperol Ice Bar
Mid-mountain magic. Pull up a beanbag, sip an Aperol Spritz and take in the views from halfway down the M1 trail. Then carve your way back down with a smile.
faqs
Queenstown has a wide range of winter accommodation options to suit every style and budget, whether you’re chasing luxury lodges, cosy alpine apartments, lakeside hotels or social hostels. Staying in town means you’re just 20 minutes from Coronet Peak and close to restaurants, bars, and the legendary après scene.
Prefer a bit more space? Nearby suburbs like Frankton and Arthurs Point offer relaxed vibes and easy access to both mountains.
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.
The ski season runs from mid-June to early October.
July is a popular time with school holidays and a great family atmosphere, while August often brings the most consistent snow coverage and cooler temps. If you’re after sunny days and soft spring laps, September is ideal, fewer crowds, longer daylight, and great value on spring ski passes.
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