Ski Resorts

Wānaka is home to three distinctive ski areas, each with its own personality. Cardrona Alpine Resort brings family vibes and world-class terrain parks, Treble Cone serves up big mountain thrills with some of the steepest terrain in the South Island, and Snow Farm offers New Zealand’s only Nordic skiing experience. Whether you’re after your first turns, chasing fresh lines, or exploring cross-country trails, you’ll find your perfect snow day here.

Compare Ski Areas

This winter sees the biggest ski expansion in New Zealand history, with Soho Basin adding 150 hectares of terrain to Cardrona‘s already impressive offering. The new area brings that big mountain feel with natural terrain designed for intermediate and expert skiers.

Open: 14 June – 5 October 2025
The vibe: Family-friendly with serious freestyle credentials
Why go: Perfect learner slopes meet world-class terrain parks
The terrain: 615 hectares (including new Soho Basin), 600m vertical drop, 4 terrain parks

Tip: Check out the Soho Basin expansion offers wilder terrain for those seeking adventure.

Treble Cone offers some of the most challenging terrain in the South Island, with stunning panoramic views over Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps. The mountain attracts experienced skiers seeking steeper terrain and natural snow conditions.

Open: 28 June – 28 September 2025
The vibe: Raw, rugged, and uncompromisingly Kiwi
Why go: The most challenging terrain in the South Island, with views that’ll stop you in your tracks
The terrain: 550 hectares of steep and deep, 700m+ vertical drop

Tip: After a decent snowfall, head straight to Saddle Basin for some of the best powder on the mountain.

Snow Farm is New Zealand’s only Nordic ski area sits high in the Pisa Range, offering a completely different kind of snow experience. With 50km of groomed trails winding through stunning alpine terrain, it’s where cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even dogsledding take centre stage.

Open: 28 June – 21 September 2025
The vibe: Peaceful, family-friendly, and refreshingly different
Why go: Nordic skiing traditions meet high-country adventure
The terrain: 50km of trails for classic and skate skiing, plus snowshoe tracks

Tip: Stay overnight in one of the alpine huts for a proper backcountry experience – you’ll have the trails to yourself at sunrise.

Hit the Slopes. Stay for Everything Else.