When it comes to skiing in New Zealand, there’s no better way to experience winter than travelling at your own pace and stopping at all the best ski spots on a snow-filled winter road trip. If you’re looking to chase the powder in Queenstown or carve it up in the North Island, we’ve got the ultimate winter road trip guide for skiing in New Zealand.
We’ll break down the best ski fields in the South and North Islands, share insider tips on hiring your snow gear, parking, accommodation and where to find après ski hot spots, local pubs, hot pools, and must-try restaurants. With advice on what to pack, how to stay safe on icy roads, and where to stay along the route, this NZ ski guide will get you prepped to hit the road with confidence. Grab your skis or board, book your rental car, and hit the road.
Why Plan a Ski Road Trip in New Zealand?
Snow-covered peaks are never too far away in New Zealand. With some of the top ski and snowboarding spots being close to iconic towns, delicious food, and accommodation, it’s easy to get your snow fix while travelling the country. A winter road trip lets you explore more than just one ski park. Start your week on the South Island’s Southern Alps, then wind your way north through Canterbury and or explore the North Island for an exciting ski holiday in NZ.
Whilst there are public transport options to these alpine areas and some snow shuttles, driving gives you complete flexibility to explore the different ski fields, winter towns and scenic spots along the way. Each ski region in New Zealand offers a different atmosphere. Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, with some of the best ski fields in the Southern Hemisphere. Mt Hutt brings wide open terrain with views to the Pacific. The North Island’s volcanic slopes come with a unique experience, with exciting places to explore among them all. With rental hubs in Queenstown, Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland, Mode Rentals makes it easy to build your perfect route.
Winter Driving Tips for a Safe Road Trip
New Zealand roads can be icy, steep, and winding, especially in alpine areas and in winter. It’s essential to drive cautiously and take your time. Snow and black ice are common near ski field access roads, and early mornings are when conditions are at their slickest. Make sure your vehicle has snow chains if you are heading up the mountain, and learn how to fit them before heading uphill. Look out for signs advising when to use them. Pull over to let faster traffic pass on narrow roads, and watch out for one-lane bridges on scenic backroads. Plan shorter drives and avoid long night-time drives when visibility drops. Make sure you always check the weather conditions before heading out on the road so you are prepared.
What to Pack for a NZ Winter Road Trip
New Zealand can get chilly in the winter months, especially if you are heading down south or to alpine areas where there will be lots of snow. Make sure you pack lots of warm layers, your snow gear for the slopes and winter road trip essentials.
Recommended items to pack for your ski holiday:
- Waterproof jackets and outerwear
- Gloves and a beanie
- Thick socks (bring a couple of extra pairs if you can)
- Thermals and warm layers, merinos are a great choice too!
- Ski jacket, pants, goggles, and boots (All your essential snow gear)
- Sunscreen and lip balm (UV rays still hit hard in alpine areas)
- Portable phone charger and car charger
- Reusable water bottle and snacks
- Ice scraper and snow chains
- Swimwear for hot pools or spas
- First aid kit
Rental shops across major ski towns offer ski rental gear, so there’s no stress if you’re travelling light. Just make sure to book ahead in busy months (July to early September).
South Island Ski Itinerary Highlights
The South Island is home to New Zealand’s highest peaks, biggest ski fields, and stunning alpine towns. Expect long runs, open terrain, and backdrops worth pulling over for. Road tripping through these alpine towns will be an unforgettable and adventurous experience you won't forget.
Queenstown: NZ’s Adventure Capital with Iconic Slopes
Queenstown earns its reputation as one of the top ski destinations in the Southern Hemisphere with two iconic ski fields: The Remarkables and Coronet Peak, both ski fields are about a 30-minute drive from town. The Remarkables serve up steep slopes, insane views, and terrain parks. Coronet is your go-to for night skiing and fast laps on wide runs.
Book ski gear rentals in town or at the base of each mountain. Parking fills fast on weekends, so arrive early if you're driving up the mountain yourself or hop on a shuttle. There is a range of accommodation available in Queenstown, from lakeside motels to boutique lodges with mountain views. After a big day, you can recharge with pizza at Winnies or catch live music and a mulled wine at World Bar. There are so many delicious dining options to try whilst you're in Queenstown.
Queenstown is a great spot to fly into and begin your winter road trip in NZ. You can pick up a rental car just outside Queenstown airport and head off to the town for your first stop. Spend a couple of days carving up on The Remarkables or Coronet Peak and enjoying everything the town has to offer before heading over the hill to Wanaka.
Wānaka & Treble Cone: Scenic Skiing & Snowboarding
Wānaka sits about an hour north of Queenstown and offers amazing skiing and snowboarding in a slightly more relaxed town. Treble Cone is the star of the show with the South Island’s longest vertical drop. Treble Cone is a go-to for advanced skiers and snowboarders, with stunning views over Lake Wānaka and often fewer crowds than the nearby spots in Queenstown. Cardrona Alpine Resort is also nearby and great for families or beginner skiers. With wide groomed trails and night skiing available during the peak season, it’s a favourite for both locals and visitors chasing early morning or evening runs.
Exploring Treble Cone and Coronet Peak from Wānaka makes it easy to access both fields whilst also being able to enjoy delicious food, the beautiful lakeside town and friendly locals. On your visit, make time for a walk along the lakefront, coffee at Big Fig and even a stop at Puzzling World for a unique roadside break before heading to your next destination in Canterbury.
Mt Hutt: Canterbury’s Skiing Paradise
Mt Hutt, located near Methven under two hours out of Christchurch, is often voted one of the best ski fields in NZ for good reason. At Mt Hutt, you’ll find wide basins, reliable snowfall and conditions, as well as a mix of skiing and snowboarding terrain to suit all experience levels. The access road can be icy, so snow chains are often required if you’re driving up the mountain yourself, so make sure you check conditions before heading up. Ski gear rentals can be found at Big Al’s or directly from Mt Hutt to get you straight onto the mountains.
Methven is a classic snow town with ski hire shops, hearty winter meals, and a cosy alpine feel. Warm up post-ski with a pint at the Blue Pub or a soak at the Opuke Thermal Pools. Being just under two hours from Christchurch, Mt Hutt makes an endpoint for your South Island winter road trip if you’ve come up from Queenstown. Alternatively, it’s also a great starting point before you go south. Pick up or drop off your car rental just outside of Christchurch Airport, and you’re good to go.
North Island Ski Itinerary Highlights
Though smaller in scale, the North Island offers thrilling and unique skiing holiday options. The active volcano, Mt Ruapehu, provides skiing on two major fields: Turoa and Whakapapa, both packed with history and epic views. Maybe you’ve already ticked off the South Island hot spots or you’re just looking for something different, exploring the North Island’s skiing destinations is a great option.
Ohakune: Turoa Ski Field
Ohakune serves as the southern base for Turoa, a field known for its long runs and high elevation. It’s generally the less busy field on Ruhapehu and has a good mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced runs for all skiing and snowboarding levels. Stay in a ski lodge or Airbnb with mountain views and grab gear from locals like TCB or SLR Rentals in Ohakune. Make time for a photo with the iconic giant carrot and head to The Powderkeg for a hearty meal and craft beer after a day on the slopes.
Whakapapa: NZ’s Largest Ski Field on Mt Ruapehu
Whakapapa is the biggest ski field in the North Island and offers everything from beginner-friendly trials to advanced trails like the infamous Pinnacles. It’s also the only place in New Zealand where you can ski on an active volcano. You can also grab your ski gear in town at SLR or TCB, or pick up your skiing or snowboarding equipment at the base of Whakapapa. Whilst you're visiting Ohakune to explore Whakapapa, don’t skip the short drive to Tawhai Falls (Gollum’s Pool) or a scenic gondola ride on the Sky Waka.
Where to Stay Along Your Skiing Holiday
There is a large range of accommodation options available along your route, no matter which direction you choose. You can choose from resort lodges, budget-friendly cabins, apartments, lakeside hotels and even Airbnb’s, just be sure to book early. During winter holidays NZ-wide, demand for accommodation can spike, and good options get taken up quickly.
Queenstown is loaded with choices, from lakefront apartments near the town centre to alpine resorts tucked into the hills. For convenient access to Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, staying close to Frankton can cut down drive times. Wanaka has a laid-back feel with holiday homes, cosy B&Bs, and backpacker lodges near the lake. Being able to walk to restaurants and gear hire stores adds serious value after a long day on the slopes.
Methven offers an authentic ski town vibe. You can stay directly in the town for easy access to Mt Hutt. Find accommodation options from self-contained apartments like the Brinkley Resort or Abisko Lodge & Apartments.
In the North Island, Ohakune is the central hub for Turoa. You can find ski chalets, lodges, or boutique hotels within walking distance of bars and cafes. National Park Village is closer to Whakapapa and offers affordable accommodation with dramatic views of Mt Ruapehu.
Après-Ski Expériences
Après ski, New Zealand-style is more relaxed than resort towns in Europe or North America. Think steaming hot pools, fireside pub meals and good drinks, with the event being more about winding down in comfort. Queenstown delivers plenty of options. Settle in for a mulled wine at The Bunker, try the tasting paddle at Atlas Beer Café, or pair your pint with a burger from Fergburger. You can expect a line, but it’s worth the wait.
In Wanaka, there are lots of delicious dining options to warm you up after a big day in the snow. Try one of Wanaka’s local craft breweries, one of our favourites is Rhyme and Reason, serving up unique craft beers, good food and live music. Methven has its own version of après, with spots like The Blue Pub and relaxing hot soaks at Opuke Thermal Pools. Their adults-only solar tubs are a great way to warm up and admire the Southern Alps.
Map Your Ultimate Winter Ski Road Trip
Now you know the best spots and destinations to hit along your winter ski road trip, try out these routes to make sure you get all the best skiing, snowboarding and winter experiences in NZ:
South Island Ski Road Trip Route:
- Fly into Queenstown Airport, pick up your rental car and head to your accommodation
- Spend a few days skiing The Remarkables and Coronet Peak
- Drive over the Crown Ranges to Wanaka and hit Treble Cone and Cardrona
- Loop through Tekapo or Geraldine to Methven
- Ski Mt Hutt, then return your rental car to Christchurch Airport
North Island Ski Road Trip Route:
- Fly into Wellington Airport to pick up your rental and head towards Ohakune.
- Drive into Ohakune and ski Turoa
- Head over to National Park Village to ski and explore Whakapapa
- Explore Tongariro National Park and Taupō
- Return via Rotorua or Waitomo to experience the infamous hot pools
- Drive up to Auckland and drop off your rental
Rental Car Deals & Perks
At Mode Rentals, we’re more than just a car rental service, we’re your Kiwi travel buddy. Whether you’re carving up Turoa or rolling into Queenstown for après ski, we’ve got vehicles built for winter travel. You can even add snow chains to your rental if you’re looking to head up the mountain yourself, making every leg of your trip stress-free. Members of our Reward Mode programme get exclusive perks at local businesses, including discounts on dining spots and activities in Queenstown.
With five locations across Aotearoa and a wide range of vehicles, you’ll be set to go on your skiing holiday and winter road trip in NZ. Browse our vehicles and start planning your route to the snow.
