Auburn James
New Zealand is loved for its excellent ski facilities; it is loved especially by skiing enthusiasts from the northern hemisphere who flock the country for some snowy fun; especially in summer.
There are three types of ski fields in New Zealand; these include the upscale big commercial ski resorts that offer excellent facilities and infrastructure, the small ski resorts that have limited facilities but are ideal for ski enthusiasts on a tight budget and the New Zealand Club Ski Fields. These are ski resorts owned by clubs that are open to the general public. Club owned ski resorts do not offer many facilities, but they are value for money and feature uncrowded slopes as well as provide accommodation on the mountain. Of these three categories, the small ski resorts and club ski resorts have proven to be the most famous as per ratings conducted by 'Powderhounds'.
The Cardrona ski field is a favourite amongst all ski fans staying in vibrant Queenstown. If you are travelling for some fun on the slopes of Cardrona make sure to seek accommodation at a well-placed Queenstown hotel. The Wide open groomers and a lovely happy holiday crowd means the slopes are best suited for families, intermediates and beginners. From the summit of the mountain you are offered gorgeous views of South Lake Valley. Cardrona skiing is above the tree line while the 345 acres is spread across 3 bowls and groomed slopes that are loved by beginners. Cardrona does have lures for the professional skier too; these include the steeps in Arcadia Chutes, tulips area and the off-piste playground in the Captains area. Cardrona is just 60 minutes by car from Queenstown and resorts such as Oaks Shores.
The famous ski resort of Queenstown, the Remarkables Ski Field is snuggled into the likewise named mountain range of New Zealand. Rising above the shores of pristine Lake Wakatipu, this mountain range offers some of the most breath-taking scenery around the world. The ski resort is somewhat small offering just 220 hectares of terrain. There is also an adrenaline pumping 357 metre vertical drop. The resort offers 4 chair lifts with a fast 6 seater and 3 quad chairs. The marked trail starts off as 30% beginner, 40% intermediate and 30% black. It is a slope better suited for beginners and intermediates while some chutes provide an exhilarating run for professional skiers. It is also a favourite amongst the freestylers.
Located just 30 minutes from the vibrant tourist resort of Queenstown this is one of South Islands most popular resorts. It is considered to be excellent for beginners and a place that intermediates can show off their skills. The slopes are home to blue trails and an almost perfect fall line. 'Powderhounds' have awarded Coronet Peak the award for 'best Intermediate ski resort in New Zealand'. The resort is not very large and offers just 281 hectares of terrain with a 481 metre vertical drop. The resort also boasts a well-planned infrastructure and perfect chair lift management; hence no long ques. Enjoy your day at Coronet Peak Ski Resort.
