SNOW SKIING

From the mountains in the North Island to the Southern Alps in the South, New Zealand provides exciting skiing from June through to October.

The topograph is such that the golf resorts are below the snow line so as you can ski in the morning and play golf in the afternoon!

In the North Island the main skiing is on Mt Ruapehu, the highest mountain in the North Island.  Here the two main field are Whakapapa on the north western side and Turoa on the south.  Ruapehu is an active volcano, with the last eruption in the mid 1990s.  Don't be concerned, as early warning systems are in place and the mountain activity is closely monitored!

You can also ski on Mt Taranaki near the west coast. 

In the South Island, the main fields are around Christchurch and Queenstown.

Adjacent to Terrace Downs High Country Resort is the Mt Hutt ski field, which boasts the longest runs on any of the fields in New Zealand.  A short drive away are a number of other ski fields with good runs.

Queenstown provides the most variety for skiiers.  First there is Coronet Peak, within 30 minutes of the township and Millbrook Resort offering good runs for all abilities.  Night skiing under lights is a specialty here.

Across the plains is  the remarkables ski field.  Recently developed it offers the best of all facilities and some fabulous runs.   A short drive away is Cadrona, just as exciting.

A specialty is heli-skiing!

Imagine, climbing into a helicopter to be whisked over the ski fields and around snow laden peaks to slopes covered in virgin powder snow.  The chopper lands and off you go, cutting tracks down the mountain side on a long demanding and exciting run!

Reaching the bottom, it's back into the chopper and back up to do it again!

Experience skiing in New Zealand on your tour with ExtravagaNZa.