Explore Queenstown and The Remarkables

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.

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 2 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 2 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.

The drive from Queenstown to Coronet Peak is a scenic 20-kilometer journey taking around 20-30 minutes. Follow Gorge Road through Arthurs Point, then turn left onto Coronet Peak Road, which winds up to the resort. Allow extra time during peak season, check road conditions beforehand, and consider the ski bus for a hassle-free trip. The road to the ski field is a sealed alpine road, snow chains must be carried. Don’t forget to enjoy the stunning mountain and lake views along the way!

Today is free to explore the many adventures that Queenstown has to offer. This alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic, and scenic wonders. Take a stroll through the beautiful lakefront parks and gardens, browse through market stalls on weekends, dine in wonderful al-fresco restaurants, or ride on the 100-year-old historic Steamship - TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Station. Take the Queenstown Gondola up to Bob’s Peak and soak up the panoramic views of the magnificent lake and mountain ranges. You may also like to enjoy a helicopter or fixed-wing flight over the snow-capped mountains and turquoise lakes. Queenstown is well-known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, if you want the adrenaline rush, take your pick from the Shotover Jet, Skydive, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge, or Heli-ski.

This two and a half hour fully guided snowmobile adventure departs from Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters hangar at Queenstown Airport, taking you on an exhilarating 13 minute flight (approximately) across the western face of the Remarkables Mountain Range, over the Hector Mountains, and across the Nevis River Valley, where you land at the base of the Garvie Mountains. After landing at the snowmobile base you will gear up (you will be provided with warm overalls, helmets, gloves, and boots) and have a safety briefing with your guide. Your guide will ensure you can operate your snowmobile safely and comfortably. You are then lead through the sparse backcountry, along the central most inland mountain range in New Zealand, cruising to an altitude of up to 6,000ft above sea level. Stunning scenery and views will astound throughout the whole experience. With stops along the way for some amazing photo opportunities of the spectacular landscape. The snowmobile tour will move at a pace comfortable for everyone. The snowmobiles are modern Polaris machines, they are easy to operate and your guide is right there if you need any assistance. Upon arriving back to Snowmobiles base, finish your tour with a return helicopter ride back to Queenstown. It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please click here.

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.

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.

Enjoy the most memorable experience in Queenstown and surround yourself with a sky of stars and 14 Japanese lanterns as you soak up the warm waters of the Onsen Hot Pools. Set high into a cliff-side overlooking the magnificent Shotover River canyon, the experience is all about unwinding and soaking-up Queenstown’s spectacular scenery, enjoying the pure waters and the fresh mountain air as your mind and body surrenders to the deep penetrating warmth and gentle massage of the private pools. Water temperature is set according to the day - generally between 37.8C on a hot day, to 39.8C during a snow-storm and in the summer one of the pools is kept cold for those who relish the thought of a cold plunge!

With such an abundance of activities on offer, one day in Queenstown is never enough! For more thrills, you can choose from jet boating, luging, bungy jumping, or a canyon swing. If golf is your game, the exceptional Millbrook Golf Course is the place for you. If you prefer wine, head down the Gibbston wine trail to sample some of the region’s best Pinot, or explore a little further afield - the nearby historic gold mining township of Arrowtown is a popular destination and features many original buildings and features. At the head of Lake Wakatipu sits Glenorchy. The scenic drive here is worth the trip alone; however, upon arriving in this peaceful township, you could easily rest the day away. Nearby is the start of the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great walks. You can enjoy a section of this track as a day walk. Alternatively, head over the Crown Range to the beautiful lake town of Wanaka, famous for its iconic tree in the lake. To appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds this area, a scenic flight or skydive will take your breath away.

Departing from Queenstown sit back and relax aboard a luxury glass-roofed coach to enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. The coach driver provides an informative commentary and plenty of photo opportunities. After a morning tea break in Te Anau, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road. On reaching Piopiotahi-Milford Sound, board your vessel for a leisurely cruise in the fiord. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rainforests, mountains and wildlife. Rain or shine, every day in Piopiotahi-Milford Sound will leave you in awe. It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information, see here.

Ziptrek Ecotours is a spectacular and exhilarating flying fox eco-adventure through the forest canopy high above Queenstown, on Skyline Gondola hill. The perfect starter to your adventure experience in Queenstown. Faster, longer and finishing with a flying fox ride that descends 30 storeys at speeds of up to 70kph, the Kea tour is a unique way to get down the mountain. This stunningly beautiful guided journey through ancient native beech forest comprises six breathtaking, tree to tree ziplines with outstanding alpine vistas; returning you to the bottom of the gondola hill on a total high. Please Note: Ziptrek Ecotours is an adventure activity that takes place at height within a forest environment, as such there are elements of risk involved. The primary risks being fall from height, collision with objects, equipment failure, changing weather conditions, natural hazards, slips/trips and falls. Ziptrek will take all reasonable and practicable steps to ensure guests safety. It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience a delicious barbeque lunch and a farm tour in a stunning lakeside setting. First, take a scenic cruise from Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Disembark and take in the picturesque shores of the Station. Relax on the lakeside terrace at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant and savour the aromas of the best local produce being cooked on the grill. The seasonal menu has plenty to choose from salads, vegetables and succulent meat. If you’re vegetarian, you will be well catered for also. Finish your meal with a scrumptious dessert before joining an entertaining farm demonstration or exploring the beautiful lakeside gardens.

Experience the ultimate Central Otago wine journey. Enjoy premium tastings at four distinct locations across Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell, highlighted by an exquisite 5-dish gourmet wine-barrel lunch with matching wines. This fully guided tour features an exclusive underground wine cave tour, a artisanal cheeseboard pairing, and scenic visits to historic Arrowtown or Old Cromwell. Complete with complimentary hotel transfers and expert local commentary, it’s the perfect blend of fine wine, gourmet dining, and rich history.