Boasting at least four ski slopes within the downtown area, Queenstown certainly has plenty of claims as the ski capital of New Zealand. While whizzing down the white powder-coated slopes of some of the most popular ski fields in the world, which is certainly a thrill, Queenstown is also a pretty hip place to plan a ski holiday. And here’s how you can do just that.

The most important aspect of a ski holiday is being prepared; thermals, beanies and waterproof clothing are only the basics. You need to be prepared with the right equipment for skiing. Snow boots that fit, skis in your size and boards are among the important pieces of equipment that need some attention. Keep your level of competence in mind when hiring or purchasing this equipment. If you are a novice or even a newbie to skiing, do not deter from there and get overly ambitious.

You can get your equipment with a visit to the downtown area of Queenstown, which is home to a range of sporting goods stores as well as shops from which to rent skiing equipment. The shops are manned by experienced staff who will help you select according to your skill level and show you how to adjust the equipment settings to suit your needs.

Skiing in Slopes in Queenstown | Image by Joris Meier via unsplash

A little inside information will certainly boost and enhance your adventure. Four ski fields are located within 20 minutes or a little over an hour from the Queenstown city centre. Each one is unique with different features; the closest to the city centre is Coronet Peak. The most modern of all ski fields, Coronet has all modern facilities and is an easy reach from popular ski resorts like Oaks Queenstown Club Suites. Between July and August, you can enjoy the thrills of night skiing at Coronet, which is located across from the Remarkables ski area where plenty of action is on offer for skiers of all levels, families, and snowboarding. The best ski resort Queenstown has on offer will be located within easy reach of this area, which offers plenty of bowls facing the north for plenty of cheerful sunshine.

It is easy to shift from fun on the slopes to a night out when you are staying at a well-located ski resort in Queenstown. Look forward to soaking up the ambiance of the alpine city with nighttime strolls through the well-lit city. Delicious aromas waft across the streets to entice your tastebuds; you have plenty of choices too when it comes to dining in Queenstown, the local pubs are perfect for inexpensive meals and good beer; plenty of craft beer breweries offer you a chance to unwind and celebrate your victories on the slope. The fancy restaurants offer a fine selection of gourmet meals to enjoy, especially if you are ravenous after a long and exhilarating day on the slopes.

There is a daily shuttle service running to the slopes from Queenstown; there are several routes to choose from with the most stopping by popular Queenstown hotels. You may want to pre-book your seat though to ensure you have a spot on the bus.

Exploring Queenstown by car is popular with several car hire companies offering a variety of vehicles to choose from. Alternatively, you can choose to use the $2 bus service, Orbus, which offers several services in and around the suburbs of Queenstown.