Queenstown Winter Events 2025: What's On This Season

Experience the buzz of Queenstown in winter 2025! As skiers and snowboarders hit the nearby slopes, this iconic New Zealand destination comes alive with an exciting line-up of events, festivals and après-ski experiences. Whether you’re into music, culture, food or snow sports, there’s something for everyone in Queenstown this winter.

As local experts at Everything Queenstown, we're always looking to help make the most of your Queenstown ski holiday. Dive into our guide for 2025’s must-attend Queenstown winter events and make your ski holiday truly unforgettable!

Queenstown Ski Field Opening Days

• Date: 14th - 27th June 2025
• Location: All Queenstown ski fields
• Details: Mark your calendars for the opening days of Cardrona Alpine Resort, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Treble Cone to catch the first fresh laps of the season! Each ski field offers unique features and experiences, ensuring that whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you'll find the perfect start to your winter adventures in Queenstown.

Cardrona Alpine Resort - 14th June
Coronet Peak - 14th June
The Remarkables - 14th June
Treble Cone - 27th June

Coronet Peak Night Ski

• Date: 25th June - 5th September 2025
• Location: Coronet Peak Ski Area
• Details: As dusk falls, Coronet Peak transforms with dazzling lights for Night Ski, a popular Queenstown winter activity. Available every Wednesday, Friday, and select Saturdays, immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere with live DJs, cosy fires, cold beer and delicious pizza. Remember, non-skiers can still soak up the Night Ski atmosphere without purchasing a ski pass. Simply self-drive or ride-share up to the Coronet Peak base building and enjoy an evening surrounded by snow, music and good vibes.

NZ Mountain Film Festival

• Date: 26th - 27th June 2025
• Location: Queenstown Memorial Centre
• Details: The NZ Mountain Film Festival brings you an inspiring selection of films and talks. Celebrate adventurous sports and lifestyles through captivating narratives and guest speakers who live on the edge. It's a cultural feast for adventurers and storytellers alike.

LUMA Enchanted

• Date: June - August 2025
• Location: Kiwi Park, central Queenstown
• Details: Discover a magical after-dark experience at LUMA Enchanted. Located at Kiwi Park in central Queenstown, this illuminated forest walk features glowing sculptures, interactive light displays and atmospheric soundscapes. Great for families and all ages, this event also supports Kiwi Park’s native wildlife conservation efforts.

Winter Pride

• Date: 15th August - 25th August 2025
• Location: Various venues in Queenstown town centre, Cardrona Alpine Resort, Coronet Peak & The Remarkables
• Details: Embrace diversity at Winter Pride, the largest winter rainbow festival in the Southern Hemisphere. Enjoy a packed schedule of ski outings, parties, après-ski events and shows. Celebrate love and community in Queenstown's stunning winter backdrop.

Snow Machine

• Date: 9th - 14th September 2025
• Location: Queenstown town centre, Coronet Peak & The Remarkables
• Details: Combine your love for skiing with epic music at the Snow Machine Festival. Spend your evenings enjoying live music performances across unique après stages and a vibrant main arena at night.

Cardrona Mountain Bikes on Snow

• Date: 5th October 2025
• Location: Cardrona Alpine Resort
• Details: Ideal for adventure seekers looking to mix up their winter sports routine, this event combines the exhilaration of mountain biking with the snowy slopes of Cardrona. Whether you’re competing or just watching, it’s a spectacle not to be missed, offering fun for participants and spectators alike.

From high-energy sports to cultural celebrations, Queenstown’s winter calendar is packed with reasons to get excited. Once you've booked your skiing & snowboarding passes and lessons through us, it’s time to start planning the rest of your trip! Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or local events to round out your holiday, we’re here to help with expert advice and the best range of Queenstown tours and activities.

Top Queenstown Winter Activities to Add to Your Itinerary

As you dive into the festive atmosphere of Queenstown's winter events, make sure you allow time to explore the wealth of activities that make this region a world-class winter destination. Queenstown is known for its ski fields, but winter is also the perfect time to try a mix of thrilling and relaxing activities.

Explore some of our top winter activities below, or contact us for a customised package.

1. Skiing & Snowboarding at Cardrona & Treble Cone: Cardrona Alpine Resort and Treble Cone ski areas are renowned for their diverse trails, world-class facilities and excellent snow coverage. Suitable for beginners through to advanced skiers and snowboarders, there are ski packages available for all levels of experience, with the option to add transport from central Queenstown.

2. Shotover Jet: For a dose of adrenaline, the Shotover Jet will not disappoint. Speed through the famous canyons of the Shotover River as your jet boat twists and turns through narrow passes at high speeds. It’s an exhilarating way to enjoy the unique winter scenery and a must-do for thrill-seekers visiting Queenstown.

3. Onsen Hot Pools: After a day on the slopes, the Onsen Hot Pools provide the perfect setting to relax and unwind. Tucked away with a backdrop of snowy peaks, these private hot pools offer a peaceful sanctuary where you can relax in the warm waters and soak in panoramic views. It’s the perfect antidote to the day’s chills and an ideal way to rejuvenate.

4. Walter Peak BBQ Dining & Lake Cruise: Enjoy a picturesque cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Here, you can savour a gourmet BBQ lunch prepared with local produce, explore the farm’s scenic landscapes and interact with friendly farm animals. This experience seamlessly blends a historic boat cruise, delightful delicious food and a exploring a working New Zealand farm station, providing a leisurely contrast to the energetic ski slopes.

5. Essential Ski & Activity Package: Combine all of the above activities in the Essential Ski & Activity Package, designed by us at Everything Queenstown. 

Queenstown’s winter season is packed with unforgettable events, world-class skiing and snowboarding, and unique experiences. Let our team at Everything Queenstown help you plan the ultimate 2025 Queenstown ski holiday. Contact us today to start building your dream winter itinerary.