New Zealand’s winter wilderness
From adrenalin-packed adventures to a cosy spot beside the fire, NZ winters have it all.
While some bask in the warm northern hemisphere summer, down here we’re rugging up in the thick of winter. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Far from it!
New Zealand is a veritable winter wonderland full of adventure. With spectacular snow-capped peaks, sensational ski fields, lively ski resorts and cosy wineries, there’s plenty of fun to be had both on the slopes and après ski.
New Zealand has world-class ski fields in both islands so, wherever you’re based, you’re never far from a powdery playground. Mt Ruapehu, smack-bang in the middle of the North Island, has ski fields on two sides, so if the weather packs in on one field, you’ll often find the other side is fine.
In the South Island, you’re spoilt for choice. A two-hour drive from Christchurch gets you to sensational Mt Hutt, one of four ski fields in the Canterbury region. Further south, the Queenstown and Wanaka region boasts four awesome ski fields, and cross-country skiing at Snow Farm.
If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, you could try tobogganing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or dog sledding.
The outdoor adventures are endless
Off the slopes, you might like to hike or mountain bike into the wilderness, play a round of golf, or explore local arts and culture. But, if that all sounds too hard, just kick back and relax in a natural thermal hot pool, surrounded by nature, and then indulge in some delicious food and wine.
We’re looking forward to helping you get here to experience all New Zealand has to offer, all year ‘round.