Cardrona
Cardrona ski resort is a favourite amongst many visitors staying in
Queenstown or
Wanaka. It is not a particularly good ski resort for powderhounds or extreme skiers, but the friendly atmosphere and wide open groomers make it popular amongst families, beginners, intermediates and freestylers. Views across the mountains and down into the South Lake Valley are beautiful, and the on-mountain accommodation, albeit limited, is also a major drawcard.
Ski and Snowboard Terrain
As is typical for
New Zealand skiing, the terrain at Cardrona is above the tree line. The ski area is spread across three bowls, and much of the 320 hectares of terrain consists of wide open groomed slopes suitable for beginners (25%) and intermediates (55%). The runs are not particularly long because the vertical at Cardrona is only 390 metres (compared with 700m at
Treble Cone, 683m at
Mt Hutt and 462m at
Coronet Peak).
There is also some advanced terrain with some steeps in the Arcardia Chutes and some excitement in the Tulips area. However the excitement for advanced and expert skiers doesn’t last long, and those seeking a range of challenging runs might be better placed at
Treble Cone. The lift system is pretty good, with much of the terrain serviced by two express quad chairs.
Cardrona is well renowned for its freestyle terrain and the resort works hard to compete with its neighbours. For shredders there are three terrain parks and up to three half-pipes including a 22 foot Olympic superpipe. There is also a challenging boardercross course.
Cardrona Snow
Powderhounds have to be really lucky to ski or board in knee deep powder at Cardrona considering that the mountain only receives an average of 2.7 metres of snowfall annually. However the powder that does fall is generally quite dry and the south facing aspect assists with snow retention. Snowmaking is used in main traffic areas to supplement the natural snow cover.
Where is Cardrona?
Cardrona Alpine Resort is nestled amongst the spectacular mountains between
Wanaka (34km – 35 minutes away) and
Queenstown (58km – 60 minutes away) on the South Island of New Zealand. Major gateway airports are either Queenstown (50 minute drive) or Christchurch (5 hour drive).
Shuttles to Cardrona are available from the towns of Queenstown and Wanaka, but hiring a car will provide more flexibility to get around. The road is unsealed past the Cardona access road, but it’s well maintained and is a little friendlier than the goat-track access roads evident at some other resorts.
Cardrona Accommodation
Many visitors to Cardrona stay in either
Queenstown accommodation or
Wanaka accommodation, but it’s also possible to stay in Cardrona Valley near the turn off to the ski area. There is also on-mountain accommodation within 15 apartments (2-4 bedrooms), only a one minute walk away from the lifts. Those staying on-mountain will need to BYO supplies and nightlife.
See our
Cardrona accommodation page for more information and for bookings.
Resort Facilities
The on-mountain facilities are of a high standard and include on-mountain eateries, ski school, child care, equipment rental and a retail shop. As is typical in NZ, the facilities are limited for choice, but there are five cafes on the mountain, so knock yourself out.
Why Ski or Snowboard at Cardrona?
Cardrona is loved by many beginner and intermediate skiers and boarders. It is also recognised as a great family ski area considering the terrain and family friendly services and facilities.
Travel Agents & Tour Operators
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Blue Powder Tours - Snow Travel Specialists
Blue Powder Tours specialise in individual & group tours to your favourite ski destinations in NZ. We have personal experience of skiing at Wanaka / Cardrona & can tailor a tour to your budget.
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