Winter in Wanaka

Wanaka Skiing and Boarding

We'll let you into a secret! You may see Queenstown in all the international glossy ski brochures, but Wanaka has the most reliable snow!! Wanaka services 3 resorts and it's where all the real ski/board enthusiasts choose to stay!

Treble Cone, Wanaka

Treble Cone ski field is a scenic 40 minutes drive from Wanaka.

Covering 550 hectares, Treble Cone is the largest ski area in the South Island. With the longest vertical rise in the Southern Lakes (705m), longest groomed intermediate runs (4km) and spectacular views over Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring, Treble Cone can claim some of the most exhilarating skiing and snowboarding conditions in the country

It is however the snow quality that really sets Treble Cone apart. Renowned for dry powder and plenty of it, Treble Cone receives an average annual snowfall of 5.5 metres and has an average maximum snow depth of 3.25 metres. Its proximity to the Southern Alps means reliable snow conditions and weather, and its geography means it is protected from the bitterly cold southerly winds.

Spread over three large basins the mountain has trails to suit all ages and skill levels. From the purpose built learner area, long groomed beginner and intermediate trails, challenging advanced runs and ungroomed powder, and infamous natural pipes and chutes, Treble Cone has it all.

Cardrona, Wanaka

Cardrona is located 40 minutes from Wanaka township.

Fantastic beginner, and intermediate skiing and boarding options and wonderful family facilities along with sensational snow! Cardrona Alpine Resort is a relaxed and friendly ski and snowboard resort located a short drive up the Cardrona Valley.

Cardrona leads the way in New Zealand for child and family friendly resorts with four dedicated Kids Centres, including two fully licensed early childcare centres for children aged from 3 months to 4 years. A wealth of information is provided for families on Cardrona's animated kids' website ( www.cardrona.com/kids).

For the more adventurous Cardrona offers the most extensive terrain park facilities in New Zealand with two half pipes, a gravity cross and a range of beginner freestyle features. There really is something for everyone at this special mountain and the breathtaking views that stretch all the way from Queenstown to Lake Wanaka is icing on the cake.

Snow Farm, NZ

40 minutes from Wanaka.

Snow Farm, NZ situated along the Cardrona Valley Road, 35km from Wanaka a, is one of the best cross country skiing fields in the Southern Hemisphere. Snow Farm boasts over 50km of groomed trails and caters for all. No matter what your age or ability, there are many trails for you to enjoy.

Lessons with highly experienced and qualified instructors are available to book as are many programmes organised to suit you.

Snow Farm plays host to many overseas Cross Country Ski Teams as well as New Zealanders looking to get away from it all. 1500m high on the Pisa Range, you can enjoy the breathtaking views whatever you are doing. Snow Farm is open for guests and visitors all year round. There are activities to participate in even without the snow!

Outside, if you want a day doing something else, there is tubing, sledding and snowshoe hire available, all popular with adults and children alike.

Heli-skiing

Harris Mountains Heli-ski are passionate about delivering the ultimate heliski experience. Operating for over 27 years, they have access to extensive, exclusive terrain in Wanaka, Queenstown and Mount Cook. Their terrain suits intermediate through to advanced skiers and boarders. Having the highest available terrain ensures reliability of snow and quality product.

Daily options include three, four and seven run days with extra runs available. Multi days and private charters are also offered. Their team is passionate, professional and dedicated - a genuine love of the sport - they board and ski. With decades of local and international experience, they know the best locations for a great day. With a small group of 4 heliskiers per guide, your expansive playground seems endless...

Southern Lakes Heli-ski - With over 20 years experience in the New Zealand Heliski industry, the region's most exclusive, varied terrain options and highly experienced guides certified under the NZMGA training program; Southern Lakes Heliski is your premium heli-skiing and boarding provider in the Southern Lakes of New Zealand.

Based out of Wanaka and Queenstown with exclusive access to 5,500 square kilometers of terrain over seven different mountain ranges, pursue the best powder with down to earth guides, and achieve the most exhilarating heli-skiing or heli-boarding experience possible. Located in New Zealand's Southern Alps, Southern Lakes Heliski operates in a winter destination that offers an awe-inspiring array of activities to energise the body and refresh the spirit.

A Southern Lakes Heliski day is unique to each and every one of their clients. Their goal is simple - to give you the best possible heliski or heliboard experience. As owner/operators they ensure a careful balance is struck throughout the day, between excitement and challenge and your own personal safety and comfort.