Wanaka ski Itinerary

Day 1: Queenstown to Wanaka

As your plane drops between the sky-piercing Alps and lands in Queenstown, New Zealand's most gorgeous airport, you'll be mesmerized. Take the scenic road to Wanaka over the Crown Range or the lengthier journey through Gibbston Valley wine area. Wanaka is a little, boutique town where you can do your own thing away from the throng. Relax and watch the sun set over the lake while sitting next to a crackling open fire in one of the wonderful taverns or restaurants.

Day 2: Spend the day at Cardrona Alpine Resort

Today, drive to Cardrona Alpine Resort, which is about a 40-minute drive from Wanaka. Wide-open basins, beginning routes, long blue runs, and off-piste slopes characterize Cardrona Alpine Resort, providing enjoyment for all. With four terrain parks, two halfpipes, a gravity cross course, and a large air jump, freestylers are spoiled for options. There are also some fantastic children's programs, including facilities for the tiniest tots (as young as 3 months old) and the Kids Ski and Snowboard School for those aged 7 to 14. You can choose from eight restaurants for lunch, all of which have spectacular views of the hills.

Day 3: Explore Wanaka

Wanaka has a lot to offer outside of the slopes. Take a half-day lake boat to Mou Waho Island for a one-of-a-kind nature tour. As the cheeky weka birds try to scavenge for your lunch, say hello. If you're feeling brave, attempt a Wildwire climbing expedition up twin waterfalls, which many skydivers consider one of the most stunning drop zones in the world. Puzzling World is the place to go if you want to be surprised at every step. This is a brain-teaser of an attraction, with optical illusions, a wonderful 3D maze, unusual architecture, and the interesting Psychic challenge.

Day 4: Spend the day at Treble Cone

Today you'll travel to Treble Cone, the largest ski field in the South Island. With a leg-burning 4km downhill run, it has the longest vertical rise, at 700 meters. It's no surprise that Treble Cone has become known for its long, uncrowded, groomed slopes, with two basins to explore, The Saddle and Home Basins. The location and elevation of Treble Cone provide the most spectacular views of Lake Wanaka. Treble Cone offers small group sessions with a competent teacher for first-timers on the snow, assuring your growth.

Day 5: Wanaka to Queenstown

You'll leave Wanaka this morning and return to Queenstown. Check out some of Queenstown's many attractions before you depart. Queenstown has a plenty of activities to choose from, including outstanding wines in Gibbston Valley and fascinating history in Arrowtown. There's a reason it's known as the adventure capital of the world.