Coronet Peak

Located only 25 minutes from the adventure capital of Queenstown, Coronet Peak is one of the most popular ski resorts on the entire South Island of New Zealand. This historic ski field is officially the nation’s oldest, and when it opened for business in 1947 there was only a single tow rope.

Today, however, Coronet Peak is a modern ski field on par with the best in the country. Aside from being the nation’s oldest, it’s also one of the last resorts in the country to watch its snow melt away. Given its southerly location, colder temperatures make for a longer season and better conditions for snowmaking.  On most years, Coronet Peak will open its slopes sometime during the middle of June, and remain open throughout the winter until the mountain thaws in October. In addition to the long season, the resort offers views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding Southern Alps. There are numerous discounts for children and families, convenient shuttles from neighboring Queenstown, and on most weekends you can even find night skiing for those who just can’t leave the slopes.

While there is an ample amount of beginner terrain in addition to rental shops and lessons, Coronet Peak also has advanced terrain that can challenge the best of skiers. The longest run is 1.2 miles, and multiple bowls sync together to form an adrenaline-inducing descent. Finally, seeing as Coronet Peak is owned by the same company which operates the Remarkables, you can rent gear from one of the ski fields and easily return it to the other. This is convenient, modern, and entertaining ski field which easily ranks as one of the best in New Zealand.