Ski North to South Package

Today you will leave Auckland and travel south through the rolling pastures of Waikato. Take the time to detour to Waitomo and experience its network of underground caves before heading inland to the Central Plateau and arriving at Tongariro National Park. A world heritage site, Tongariro is home to three active volcanoes Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe as well as a host of activities including hiking, fishing, climbing, mountain biking and skiing.

The New Zealand Superpass is the most flexible lift pass in New Zealand, giving you access to Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Mt Hutt along with Snowplanet, Turoa, Whakapapa, Porters, Roundhill, Mt Dobson, and Ohau ski areas. Get more choice, more fun, and more snow time with your New Zealand Superpass, and make the most of your New Zealand holiday!
With 5 days of New Zealand Superpasses, you've got lift access to New Zealand's premier ski areas plus the fun and excitement of a range of off-mountain attractions around New Zealand. You can mix it up a little and ski a day at the different alpine resorts or maybe you've got your eye on a run that you want to conquer over 5 days. Want to ski a little longer, don't own your own gear or snow clothing, or not sure if your skills are up to scratch? No worries, chat to us about adding additional days, rentals, or lessons.

Whakapapa Ski Area on the north-western slopes of Mt Ruapehu is New Zealand's largest ski area. Whakapapa is home to New Zealand's premiere beginners' area, Happy Valley. It's a big complete learners area in its own valley away from the worry of faster skiers/boarders putting you off. It has its own cafe, rental complex and ski school meeting area. The gentle slope is nice and long, giving you plenty of time to really get the hang of your new sport and there is a slow-moving chairlift that takes you to the top of the slope while giving your legs a rest between runs. There are also more than 30 groomed trails that intermediate skiers and boarders love. The volcanic terrain at Whakapapa gives a massive variety between trails, giving you the choice of bumps, chutes, drops, bowls or nice wide runs. With 24 black and black diamond runs plus the lift accessed Black Magic backcountry area, there is plenty at Whakapapa to get the adrenaline pumping even for the most expert of experts.

Turoa Ski Area on the south-western slopes of Mt Ruapehu offers a massive 722m of vertical descent on New Zealand's highest chairlift - the High Noon Express. The Alpine Meadow at the base of Turoa Ski Area is a wonderful little beginners' area. It has a massive 120m long carpet lift, which is like a conveyor belt over the snow and super easy to use.The intermediate terrain at Turoa is mostly wide and smooth, making it a perfect progression from the beginner runs. There are 12 groomed intermediate runs, all of which are nice and long and many of them link to one another so you can enjoy excellent intermediate skiing and riding from the top of Australasia's highest lift to the base area. Enjoy the natural half-pipes and chutes through the Organ Pipes and the Solitude backcountry area or the amazing wide sweeping terrain of the Triangle and the Glacier backcountry area.

The drive from Tongariro takes you through the central plateau before passing through the rural towns of Waioura, Taihape, Mangaweka and Bulls. Continue south where you will travel through Waikanae and Paraparaumu along the beautiful Kapiti Coast. The coastal seaside towns of Paekakariki and Plimmerton are also worth a short detour before arriving into the capital city of Wellington. Wellington is New Zealand's capital. It sits on a wonderful deep natural harbour and is surrounded by bush-clad hills. The city centre itself is quite compact (only around 1 square kilometre) and so exploring on foot is relatively easy. From your city centre accommodation, you can easily stroll the cafes and restaurants around Courtenay Place or visit New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa, which is also close by.

Explore more of Wellington before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Ski New Zealand have a superb range of cars suitable for winter driving in the South Island of New Zealand. With a range of inclusions like ski racks, and snow chains that will suit your winter holiday perfectly. First time driving in New Zealand winter? Check out our helpful tips!

From Queenstown it’s a 40 minute drive to The Remarkables Ski Area.  From the centre of town drive towards the airport, then continue over the Kawarau River and continue on the main road until you see the well signposted entry for the Remarkables Ski Area Access Road. The road to the ski field is a sealed 14 km alpine road, snow chains must be carried.

The Remarkables offers a laid-back atmosphere which is fantastic for families and those new to skiing or snowboarding. Located just 45 minutes from Queenstown, the Remarkables features a fantastic network of trails with wide, gentle slopes for beginners of all ages and big mountain runs for the experts in the family. With 30% beginner slopes, 40% intermediate and 30% advanced, the Remarkables offers challenges for all levels. For those wanting to progress quickly, the friendly team of instructors can be with you every step of the way. While you're up there don't forget to check out the purpose-built snow tubing lanes before you round off with a steaming hot chocolate or drink at Remarkables cafe. With regular shuttles from Queenstown, lessons for 4yrs+ and complete gear hire on the mountain, this is a fun and easy day out for visitors to the South Island.

You have already had a taster of what Coronet has to offer now is time to get out and start exploring. Head over to Greengates Express to find a big nature playground full of features. 

Want to challenge yourself on exciting terrain in some of the best conditions in the Southern Hemisphere?  Then Coronet Peak should be top of your list. This theme park created by mother nature offers gripping trails and extensive snowmaking facilities, making for complete snow coverage on multiple trails. Coronet is also home to night skiing for a different take on these roller coaster trails try it under lights. For those just getting to know the snow the dedicated learner and novice areas make finding your snow feet easy and all gear can be hired on the mountain. With 25% beginner slopes, 45% intermediate, and 30% advanced, Coronet Peak has the trail for you.  For a break from the snow, enjoy live music at the base building, or wet your whistle with a hot chocolate or cold beverage at Heidi's Hut. The pizza and pasta meals are great for warming you up and giving you an energy boost for the afternoon. 

Explore more of Queenstown before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Maori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!