Wānaka, nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps, is a true winter wonderland. As the temperatures drop and the mountains are covered in fresh snow, the town transforms into a hub of thrilling snow sports, tranquil escapes, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a peaceful retreat by the fire, Wānaka offers a wealth of winter activities to suit all tastes.

10 Dec 2025

Wānaka’s Winter Wonders

As the temperature drops and our mountains wear their pristine snowy coats, Wanaka transforms into a dreamy paradise for winter holidays. If you're seeking a winter adventure that balances the slopes with serenity, Wanaka should be your first stop!

Hitting the Snow at Treble Cone

No winter trip to Wānaka would be complete without skiing or snowboarding at Treble Cone, New Zealand’s largest ski area on the South Island. With expansive slopes, uncrowded runs, and magnificent views of Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps, Treble Cone is a haven for snow sports enthusiasts.

Beginners can enjoy the gentle slopes, while experienced skiers can challenge themselves on the steep chutes and off-piste areas. The stunning alpine vistas make it an unforgettable experience.

Pro Tip: If you're new to skiing, consider taking a lesson or hiring a guide to help you make the most of your time on the slopes.

Detail	Description & Average Cost (NZD)
Location	Approximately 35-40 minutes drive from Wānaka.
Lift Pass	Treble Cone and Cardrona are often grouped together. Single-day passes are typically in the $179 - $199 range, especially if booked online and early. Multi-day passes offer a better per-day rate and access to both mountains.
Average Cost	Expect to budget $200 - $350 per day (Pass + Transport + Food).
Transport	Dedicated Ski Bus: Available from Wānaka, typically departing from the Lakefront area. Costs around $55 return. Pre-booking is essential.
Self-Driving	The access road is challenging—7km of scenic, unsealed gravel road. 4WD/AWD is highly recommended, and snow chains are often mandatory.
Shuttle	FREE shuttle bus runs constantly from the base of the access road (bottom car park) to the ski area base building.

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing at Snow Farm

For a more serene winter adventure, head to Snow Farm, New Zealand’s only cross-country ski area. With over 50 kilometres of groomed trails, it’s the perfect spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The area also offers snow tubing and a snowman building zone, making it ideal for families and those seeking a slower pace.

On-site: A cosy café and rental shop ensure you're well equipped for the day ahead.

Sledging at Snow Farm

For a fun-filled family day out, head to Snow Farm for some sledging! The gentle slopes provide the perfect setting for a few hours of fun. Sledging is easy to pick up and guarantees plenty of laughs as you zoom down the hills.

Detail	Description & Average Cost (NZD)
Location	Located near the Cardrona side, off the Cardrona Valley Road. Takes about 1 hour to drive from Wānaka.
Day Pass	Significantly cheaper than Alpine resorts. A day pass for the Cross-Country trails is typically around $50 - $60. Sledging and tubing may have a separate, lower fee.
Average Cost	Generally, a lower-cost day out. Expect $70 - $150 (Pass + Rentals + Transport).
Transport	Self-Drive is the most common option. The resort's access road is easier than Cardrona/Treble Cone, but still requires care. Dedicated commercial shuttle services are available (often private/shared vans).
Gear Rental	Cross-country ski rentals are available on-site and are generally less expensive than alpine ski/snowboard rentals.

Apres Ski

After a day on the slopes, treat yourself to a warm and cosy après-ski experience. Put your feet up at these local favourites, or work your way through our list of the most delicious places to wine, dine and be social in Wanaka.

Head to the B Social Taproom and Eatery for craft beers and hearty comfort food in a welcoming, relaxed setting. For a livelier atmosphere, visit Kai Whakapai Cafe and Bar, where you’ll enjoy good food, great drinks, and live music.

Snowboarding at Cardrona Ski Resort

If you’re looking for more adventure, Cardrona Ski Resort is just a short drive from Wānaka. With excellent terrain for all levels, Cardrona is famous for its snowboarding terrain parks, making it a must-visit for snowboarders. The wide variety of runs ensures that everyone, from beginners to experts, will have a fantastic time.

Detail	Description & Average Cost (NZD)
Location	Approximately 35-45 minutes drive from Wānaka. Situated off the Cardrona Valley Road.
Lift Pass	Varies significantly based on when you buy. Buy Online & Early to Save. Generally ranges from $179 - $199 per day for a single-day pass if bought in advance.
Average Cost	Expect to budget $200 - $350 per day (Lift Pass + Transport + Food). Rentals cost extra.
Transport	Dedicated Ski Bus: Highly recommended. Runs daily from multiple pickup points in Wānaka (e.g., Lakefront Carpark). Costs around $44 return. Pre-booking is essential.
Self-Driving	The access road is unsealed/gravel for the top section. 4WD/AWD is recommended, and carrying snow chains is often mandatory (and usually required to be fitted/checked by marshals on certain days).
Shuttle	FREE shuttle bus runs constantly from the Pine Trees lower car park up the access road to the base building. Great option for those who drive a 2WD vehicle.

Soho Basin & Pro Training Grounds

While the major resorts of Cardrona and Treble Cone offer world-class facilities, Wānaka is known in professional snow sports circles for hosting elite athletes' off-season training.

Soho Basin is an area of Cardrona/Treble Cone terrain that offers a more exclusive and advanced experience, accessible only via a dedicated, additional lift pass. It's known for its huge area of high-alpine, ungroomed, lift-accessed terrain—a wild, natural playground favoured by expert skiers and snowboarders looking for an intense, backcountry-style rush. Its exclusive nature and challenging terrain give it the wild, untamed reputation professional riders seek.

Who it's for: Highly advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders. Not for beginners.
The Reputation: The terrain is steep, challenging, and largely ungroomed, making it a demanding and exhilarating experience.
Off-Season Pro Training: Outside of the public resorts, professional teams from the Northern Hemisphere often lease large, private areas of terrain around Wānaka, such as the Soho Basin when it's closed, or other private high-alpine land, to construct private, world-class terrain parks and pipes. These dedicated, private facilities are where the world's best train during the Northern Hemisphere's summer, keeping them at peak performance. These areas are strictly private and not accessible to the public, which is why they are often only heard of through word-of-mouth or in professional athlete interviews.

Pro Tip: If you're an advanced rider looking for the closest public experience to this wild terrain, look into the dedicated access pass for Soho Basin while riding at Cardrona/Treble Cone.

Explore the Snowy Trails on a Winter Walk

Take a peaceful winter walk along the shores of Lake Wānaka to appreciate the beauty of the landscape in the colder months. The snow-covered surroundings and crisp air make it a relaxing and rejuvenating way to explore the area. For an even quieter experience, walk to the Wānaka Tree and enjoy its beauty framed by the winter snow.

Visit the Iconic Wānaka Tree

For a quieter winter experience, take a walk to the Wānaka Tree, one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots. This solitary willow tree, standing in the shallow waters of Lake Wānaka, offers a breathtaking view of the lake and mountains, particularly beautiful when dusted with snow.

Pro Tip: It’s an ideal spot for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Relax in the Hot Pools at Lake Hawea

After a day of skiing or snowboarding, unwind in the Lake Hawea Hot Pools, offering an idyllic spot to relax in the warm waters while taking in views of the snow-capped mountains. The peaceful atmosphere makes it the perfect place to soothe tired muscles and enjoy some quiet time.

Explore Wānaka’s Artisan Market

The Wānaka Artisan Market is a must-do during your winter visit. Held every Thursday from 3 pm to 6 pm, it’s a great place to explore local crafts, fresh produce, and homemade goods. It’s a lovely way to experience the region’s creative spirit and pick up a special souvenir.

Pro Tip: Grab a hot drink or a snack from the market and enjoy it while you wander around the stalls.

Experience Indoor Climbing at Basecamp Adventures

Wānaka offers plenty of adventure off the slopes, too. Basecamp Adventures offers indoor rock climbing, making it perfect for families or anyone looking for an indoor activity during colder days. The climbing walls cater to all levels of experience, providing an exciting challenge for kids and adults alike.

Heli-Skiing for the Ultimate Adventure

For those seeking the ultimate thrill, heli-skiing in Wānaka is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Take a scenic flight in a helicopter and land on unspoilt mountain slopes to enjoy some of the best powder New Zealand has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or an adventurer at heart, heli-skiing in Wānaka is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Pro Tip: Make sure you’re in good physical condition before attempting heli-skiing, as the terrain is challenging.

Find the Winter Magic in Wānaka

With snow-capped mountains, spectacular alpine views, and plenty of winter activities, Tasman Holiday Parks — Wānaka is the perfect destination for a winter holiday. From adrenaline-pumping snow sports to cosy evenings by the fire, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your winter gear, embrace the crisp air, and make memories that will last a lifetime in this winter wonderland.