Ski fun in New Zealand: The best slopes for beginners

While Singapore continues to experience tropical heat year-round, New Zealand embraces its winter season from June to September. During these months, the Southern Alps transform into a snow-covered paradise, marking the beginning of the eagerly anticipated ski season across the country’s renowned mountain resorts.

New Zealand has over 25 ski areas combined (Yes, that many!). Unfortunately, not all are suitable for learners or children due to the terrain difficulties. Fret not, we have collated the best ski resorts and ski fields suited for families/beginners.

*Please note: The ending dates for the ski season are estimated based on previous historical data. The dates may change according to weather circumstances.

Important to note: If you are from a visa waiver country, you must apply for a NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before your trip. An NZeTA request costs NZD$23 if you apply online or NZD$17 if you apply on their free app.

South Island

Planning a holiday in New Zealand? The South Island beckons with adventure in every form, from its stunning wildlife and acclaimed wineries to dramatic glacial valleys and breathtaking, star-filled skies. Its varied terrain creates an ideal setting for an unforgettable escape filled with adventure.

1. Cardrona Peak

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Ski Season: 14 June 2025 – 5 October 2025
Nearest Airport: Queenstown Airport (33 Mi)

Cardrona is a local favourite and rightfully so. It features a wide variety of terrain, great views, and robust infrastructure that competes with the best of all worlds. If you’re travelling with family, this is a great option due to the ease of convenience and plenty of terrain for children and novices.

Cardrona has accommodation on the mountain itself, though it is harder to secure due to its popularity. Instead, if you don’t mind driving, you can find accommodation at Queenstown or Wanaka, which are both roughly an hour away.

Lodging Recommendations:

• Club Wyndham Wanaka – 5 minutes drive from Lake Wanaka and That Wanaka Tree

• Edgewater – Beachfront, 5 minutes drive from Lake Wanaka

2. The Remarkables

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Ski Season: 14 June 2025 – 12 October 2025

Nearest Airport: Queenstown Airport (11 Mi)

If you’re inexperienced and want to learn how to ski, The Remarkables is an excellent place for that. Though a small ski area, it has one of the best terrains in New Zealand. One of the best things about this ski resort is the views it boasts.

Families with beginners may want to start their ski journey at The Remarkables. You can find accommodation in Queenstown as there are not many lodging options at the ski resort itself.

Lodging Recommendations:

• Ramada Suites by Wyndham Queenstown Remarkables Park – 14 kilometre from The Remarkables

• Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park –7 minutes drive from Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown Events Centre

• LQ Queenstown – 3 minutes drive from Remarkables Park Town Centre and Lake Wakatipu

3. Mt Hutt Ski Area

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Ski Season: 13 June 2025 – 12 October 2025

Nearest Airport: Christchurch Airport (66 Mi)

Mt Hutt is the South Island’s highest mountain with very reliable snow. You can enjoy a good selection of terrain, with ample space for beginners, loads of wide groomers for intermediates, and more. This is a super-value choice for families as kids under five can ski for free!

If you’re planning on visiting, you can consider staying at Methven, where accommodation is available and reasonably priced. Mt Hutt usually enjoys a longer ski season due to its higher altitude.

Lodging Recommendations:

• Methven Resort – 26.6 kilometres from Mt Hutt Ski Area

North Island

Enhance your New Zealand itinerary with the North Island's fabulous attractions. Discover striking cone-shaped mountains and immerse yourself in the magic of Lord of the Rings locations.

4. Turoa Ski Area

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Ski Season: 28 June 2025 – 12 October 2025

Near Airports:
Auckland Airport (226 Mi)
Taihape Airport (47 Mi)

North Island’s Ski season starts and ends a little later. One of the only two ski resorts in North Island, Turoa is located on the country’s largest active volcano. It is known for having the largest vertical drop in Australia and Asia.

According to their website, 25% of their terrains are dedicated to beginners, so it is a great place for anyone looking to learn. Turoa also has great nightlife and restaurants on the mountains and in the nearby ski town of Okahune.

Lodging Recommendations:

• Tongariro Suites – 32.2 kilometres from Turoa

5. Whakapapa Ski Area

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Ski Season: 28 June 2025 – 12 October 2025
Nearest Airports: Auckland Airport (207 Mi), Taihape Airport (71 Mi)

Whakapapa is Turoa’s neighbouring ski resort. It is located on the same volcano, Mt Ruapehu, as Turoa Ski Area. With almost 70 runs, Whakapapa has something for beginners to experts. It has New Zealand’s largest dedicated beginner’s area.

Whakapapa also happens to be the filming location for Mordor in The Lord of the Rings saga. Lodging and accommodations are more convenient than Turoa, with lodging at the bases and at National Park.

Lodging Recommendations:

• Chateau Tongariro Hotel – 7.1 kilometres from Whakapapa Ski Area

• Plateau Lodge – 0.8 kilometres from Tongariro National Park, 22.9 kilometres from Whakapapa Ski Area.

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This story was first published on discoverist.changirecommends.com