4 must do Queenstown winter activities in 2022
4 must do Queenstown winter activities in 2022
From June to October every year, Queenstown transforms into a winter wonderland. Temperatures drop, the mountains are snow-capped and visitors come from far and wide to experience all the amazing Queenstown winter activities on offer. With so much to see and do, we decided to put our heads together and come up with four absolute must-do activities for your Queenstown holiday. In between all the fun, enjoy the vibrant Queenstown apres-ski scene, go sightseeing or check out some of the epic winter events happening in town.
To make things easier, we've condensed a multi-day ski pass plus three iconic Queenstown activities into two awesome packages. For something a little more custom, create your own Queenstown ski holiday itinerary by checking out our recommendations below and chatting to our friendly local team on phone, email or Live Chat.
Whether you’re a first timer or seasoned ski bum, hitting the slopes is one of the top things to do in Queenstown in winter. There are four Queenstown ski fields in total, each with varying terrain and on-mountain facilities. Our team’s personal favourite has to be the uncrowded slopes, reliable snow and friendly resort-like feel at Cardrona Alpine Resort. It’s a scenic 45 minute drive from Queenstown to the base of the mountain, which you can either take by bus or self drive. Once there, you are greeted by a giant snowman, wide runs, five chair lifts and cosy mountain cafes & restaurants for those all-important hot chocolate and lunch stops. With Cardrona snow always delivering and the Cardrona Hotel providing a beautiful apres-ski spot on route back to Queenstown, we reckon a multi-day pass at ‘Cardies’ (as the locals call it) is hard to beat.
After a chilly day up the Queenstown mountains, nothing beats a blissful soak at Onsen Hot Pools. These idyllic cedar-lined hot tubs overlook the Shotover River and surrounding snow-capped mountains, the perfect backdrop for an hour of relaxation. Topping off this paradisical scene, Onsen Hot Pools also provide your choice of drinks and snacks during your pool session. Think bubbles, a glass of wine, beer or juice with local snacks. To get to this essential Queenstown winter activity, take the free shuttle from town after dropping off your ski gear, or there is plenty of parking space if self driving.
3. Walter Peak BBQ Lunch & Lake Cruise
The TSS Earnslaw is an iconic sight in Queenstown, with the 1912 steamship making regular trips across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Join the midday sailing for a historic return cruise and a gourmet BBQ Lunch at Colonel’s Homestead, the farm's cosy restaurant. This is one of the most popular activities in Queenstown winter, due to breathtaking views of Queenstown’s snowy mountains and the delicious food on offer. It’s also a great way to relax and enjoy Queenstown in between skiing days, definitely a must-have in your Queenstown ski & activity package.
If you’ve had Queenstown on your bucket list for a while, you’ve probably seen pictures of the red Shotover Jet. This 25 minute ride is a thrilling adventure for all the family, promising wall to wall canyon action, 360 spins and also local history from your driver. Don your stylish Shotover Jet spray jacket and neck buff, then head out to explore the turquoise waters of the Shotover River, flanked by picturesque Queenstown winter scenery. If you time your Onsen Hot Pools experience before going jet boating, you can see a taster of the ride from the comfort of your hot tub.
Queenstown is a New Zealand hub for winter activities, with so much to do in between skiing & snowboarding. As well as organising a multi-day Cardrona ski pass to experience the best of the Queenstown snow, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Queenstown during evenings and rest days. Combine booking your ski pass with the most iconic Queenstown winter activities in our Essential or Ultimate Ski & Activity Packages, or get in touch with our team for local recommendations or a fully customised activity package.
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