New Zealand Ski Season Dates

Winter 2025 

New Zealand’s winter season begins in June and goes through to August. Most of our snow falls in the mountainous areas, like the Central Plateau on the North Island and the Southern Alps on the South Island. During this time, New Zealand becomes a major skiing destination in the Southern Hemisphere, attracting visitors from across the globe.

Across the South and North island, ski season starts in early June and runs through to late October or early November. Most of the best ski fields in the country are within a 2 to 3 hours drive of the nearest major airport, making our ski areas highly accessible.

If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, you’re in for some fun! If you’re a beginner, New Zealand is one of the best places to experience skiing for the first time. We've had so much snow this year – we haven't seen a start to the season like this in over a decade! All this snow will set us up for a memorable New Zealand skiing and snowboarding experience!

Ski Fields Opening and Closing Dates

Below are the ski season dates for some of New Zealand’s major ski areas. Do note - these dates are subject to change depending on the snowfall and snow conditions of each ski field at that time. Therefore, we recommend you check in with the ski resort you plan to visit before your planned ski trip.

North Island Ski Fields

Ski on an active volcano that’s home to New Zealand’s largest commercial ski field, boasting unique terrain and stunning views.

Mt Ruapehu

• Happy Valley 28 June - 28 September
• Whakapapa: 28 June - 12 October
• Turoa: 28 June - 12 October

South Island Ski Fields

The South Island’s three main skiing regions feature world-class ski schools with accommodation close to where the ski action is.

Canterbury

• Mt Hutt: 13 June - 12 October
• Mt Cheeseman: 5 July - Late September
• Porters Alpine Resort: 27 June - Early October

Queenstown

• Coronet Peak: 14 June - 28 September
• The Remarkables: 14 June - Early October

Wanaka

• Cardrona Alpine Resort: 14 June - 5 October
• Treble Cone: 27 June - 28 September

Start planning for this ski season in NZ now! Make your booking so you can enjoy epic slopes and alpine resorts on your New Zealand ski holiday. There's a lot of snow on our mountain peaks to look forward to!

 

Wintertime in New Zealand is a great time for skiers and snowboarders to travel to escape your daily routine, and there's never a shortage of things to do. Make your travel plans with Omega Rental Cars - we have been providing modern rental vehicles with fantastic service and great prices for almost three decades.

We look forward to seeing you this skiing season in NZ! You will always be greeted with helpful and professional service; it’s the Omega way.