Cardrona Alpine Resort
Resort Info

Cardrona is located in the Crown Range only 60mins/58km easy drive, shuttle or bus trip from Queenstown and 35mins/34km from Wanaka. Cardrona is the largest ski area easily accessed from Queenstown. With consistently good weather and reliable snow conditions Cardrona offers superb terrain spread across three main valleys.

Cardrona is renowned for being NZ's fun and friendly mountain and a natural choice for families, beginners and intermediates. The terrain at Cardrona helps make it an easy place to ski and perfect for those who are still learning how to schuss. Cardrona's famous learner's slopes have been redeveloped for the 2011 season making them larger and even more accessible thanks to a new state of the art surface conveyor lift. A “Chondola” (chair and Gondola) and the widest and most scenic learner trails in the region makes the ski resort a favourite with those new to the snow.

Cardrona leads the way in New Zealand for child and family friendly resorts with two dedicated Kids Centres A ski kindy that is a fully-licensed early childhood education facility with highly experienced & qualified teachers and Pengi's Nursery for 3mths-2yrs children.

For the more adventurous Cardrona offers the most extensive terrain park facilities in New Zealand with two half pipes, a gravity cross and a range of beginner freestyle features. There really is something for everyone at this special mountain and the breathtakingviews that stretch all the way from Queenstown to Lake Wanaka are icing on the cake.

After the exhilaration of hitting the slopes, soaking up the atmosphere and stunning views, stop in at the historic Cardrona pub for the perfect end to your day.

Cardrona Tips:

1. If you’re there to learn, arrive early. Cardrona is very popular with beginners and it can get busy.  
2. If you have a pass with days loaded on, park in one of the lower car parks and avoid the queues. Truly, park and ride!
3. Look out for the frequent demo days, try the latest and greatest in skis. For free!
4. Try the Noodle House for lunch, super yummy and an easy ski in/ski out by taking the Skyline trail.
5. Strong intermediate? Head to Captains, you’ll love it.
6. And if there is tons of snow, try Valley View. It’s a little steeper, but often it’s uncrowded, perfect for fast cruising!