The Remarkables: NZ's Ski Gem
- Benjamin Locke
- Jul 23
- 8 min read
Updated: Jul 23
Set high in the Southern Alps and just 45 minutes from Queenstown, The Remarkables is a striking alpine escape with a relaxed Kiwi vibe that lives up to its name. With powder-filled bowls, wide-open chutes, and modern lift infrastructure, the experience rivals top resorts in the French Alps, only here, you’re skiing in the heart of July.
Though long considered a local favorite, The Remarkables remains a well-kept secret among international travelers. It offers everything discerning skiers seek: world-class terrain, efficient access, and a welcoming, understated atmosphere. Even better, it’s part of the Ikon Pass, making it a seamless option for those chasing winter across hemispheres. You can also ski all of New Zealand with the New Zealand Superpass.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to experience The Remarkables at its finest from curated runs and hidden powder stashes to elevated après-ski, boutique accommodations, and how to make the most of a Kiwi winter in one of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine settings.
The Remarkables Ski Resort
Where Is The Remarkables?
The Remarkables are located on the South Island of New Zealand, just outside Queenstown (30-45 min drive). They sit above Lake Wakatipu and are part of the Southern Alps. Known for steep terrain and incredible views, they’re a major draw for skiing, snowboarding, and sightseeing year-round. New Zealand has several ski resorts, including Cardrona, Treble Cone, Mt Hutt, and Coronet Peak. The Remarkables stand out as the largest with the most access to terrain.
Map of Remarkables Inside New Zealand
The Remarkables Geography
While The Remarkables don’t sit on a glacier like some European resorts, the altitude and south-facing terrain help the mountain hold snow well into spring. The base area starts at around 1,600 meters (5,250 feet), and the highest lift-served point reaches 1,942 meters (6,371 feet), giving the resort good elevation by New Zealand standards.
The Remarkables Snow Quality
The Remarkables benefit from cold overnight temps and regular snowfall during the Southern Hemisphere winter (June through early October). Thanks to its higher elevation and strategic orientation, snow tends to stay dry and grippy, especially on upper trails. While snow conditions can vary more than at glacier resorts in Europe, the Remarkables will always deliver solid coverage across groomers, bowls, and steeps. And when storms hit, the off-piste terrain fills in fast.
Best Time to Ski at The Remarkables
The main ski season at The Remarkables runs from mid-June through early October, with July and August being the peak months for snow quality, terrain coverage, and crowds. Word to the wise, Australian school holidays coincide with huge traffic at the resort, so best to avoid those times if you want a clean experience. If you want the best conditions, aim for mid-to-late July after the school holidays. August offers excellent skiing with fewer crowds, and spring skiing in September can be sunny, fun, and surprisingly consistent. Late season can bring softer snow in the afternoon, which can get a bit slushy, but the sunshine and shorter lines are awesome.
The Remarkables Ski Resort
If you spend time in Queenstown, you'll see The Remarkables in the background. Though relatively compact by global standards, the Remarkables packs a punch with reliably cold snow, a friendly Kiwi vibe, and terrain that steps smoothly from mellow groomers to serious backcountry chutes. Five distinct zones fan out from two high-speed chairs, so skiers of every ability can find their sweet spot without feeling lost. Below is a quick overview of each zone and what to expect on the hill.
The Remarkables is uniquely suited for both beginners AND advanced skiers. The Beginner terrain is custom-made for super conservative skiers and tends to be frequented by Indian and Chinese families who are just getting started with skiing and need something safe. Meanwhile, challenging, advanced runs encompass the entire right side of the ski map. Runs like The Chutes and Alta Chutes drop into steeper, more technical zones with natural features, narrow lines, and less traffic.
The Remarkables Ski Experience
Lifts, layout, and vertical drop
The lift system is compact and efficient, with two high-speed chairlifts and two fixed-grip quads, plus four conveyor lifts for beginner zones. The vertical drop is around 357 meters (1,171 feet), with a base elevation of 1,622 meters and a summit of 1,943 meters. Terrain is spread across 220 hectares and evenly split across skill levels: 30% beginner, 40% intermediate, and 30% advanced. It’s easy to move around the resort, and most zones link together without requiring long traverses, awkward cat tracks, or hiking.
On mountain dining
There are plenty of convenient options to eat on the mountain at the Remarkables. The main base lodge hosts the Remarkables Café, serves hearty classics like fish and chips, savory pies, soups, gourmet sandwiches, and a fresh salad bar, ideal for a sit-down meal with panoramic alpine views. For quicker bites, Rastusburn Coffee Bar in the same building offers espresso, teas, muffins, and grab-and-go snacks, making it a popular early morning stop or mid-run refuel. Higher on the slopes, the Ice Bar shifts the mood with outdoor seating, cold beer, mulled wine, and light snacks—perfect for sunny-day breaks or a relaxed après-style drink between runs.
Ski Rentals and Lessons
The Remarkables makes it easy for visitors of all levels to get equipped and improve their skills. Ski and snowboard rentals are available at the base area, with high-quality gear for kids, beginners, and advanced riders alike. They even rent out jackets and pants along with boots and poles, so you really don't need anything except a hat and goggles. For those who want to get their gear beforehand, there are a plethora of ski rental shops in town, like the classic Green Toad. The rental process is fast and well-organized, with friendly staff on hand to help with boot fittings, adjustments, and upgrades if needed. For those looking to level up on the mountain, the on-site Snowsports School offers group and private lessons for all ages.
Hotels and Accommodation Near The Remarkables
5-star and luxury accommodations
For those looking to pair their ski trip with luxury, there’s no shortage of high-end stays around Queenstown with views of The Remarkables. The Swiss Belsuites Pounamu is an amazing choice with friendly staff and unrivaled views of Lake Wakatipu. Rosewood Matakauri is the standout, secluded, refined, and perched right above Lake Wakatipu. It’s a full-service retreat with gourmet dining, spa treatments, and suites that face the mountains. For something closer to town, The Rees Hotel offers private lakefront apartments with fireplaces and soaking tubs, along with a fine-dining restaurant and curated wine cellar. Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel and Eichardt’s Private Hotel also offer five-star experiences, with chic suites and personalized service that cater to travelers looking for a polished, low-key escape.
These luxury options are all within a 25–30 minute drive of the ski area and offer concierge service that can arrange ski rentals, transfers, and in-room massages post-slope. Whether you're coming to ski or to relax between runs, the top-tier hotels in Queenstown turn a mountain getaway into something memorable.
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Midlevel Stays
For a more practical stay, mid-range hotels like Ramada Suites by Wyndham at Remarkables Park and Quest Queenstown offer comfort, convenience, and quick access to the mountain. Both are located close to the base road and shuttle pickups, with modern, apartment-style rooms that are great for families or longer stays.
The Remarkables Après Ski
The fun doesn't end when the lifts stop. As the sun slowly subsides behind the peaks, the après scene comes alive, starting with mountainside comfort and flowing into vibrant evening life around Queenstown.
Restaurants & Dining
After a day on the slopes, most guests head back to Queenstown for an awesome dining experience. Little stands selling everything from fresh dumplings to crepes litter the lakeside promenade. Lakeside restaurants like Boardwalk and Little Blackwood serve creative fare with memorable skyline views and fine local wines or craft cocktails. For a casual post-ski bite in town, places like Fergburger and Erik’s Fish & Chips deliver hearty, fast meals that fuel recovery for the next day. Fergburger is kind of iconic in its own right, and many who have traveled to Queenstown will know it well. Back on the ski field, the Ice Bar offers warming mulled wine, tapas-style snacks, and prime mountain-view seating—perfect for a relaxed slope-side wind down.
Bars, Clubs, and Nightlife
Just like the dining scene, apres and nightlife are in Queenstown. A local favorite is Rhino’s Ski Shack, a cozy underground bar styled like a European ski lodge where mulled wine, hot cider, and laid-back vibes draw both locals and visitors. For craft beer lovers, Smiths Craft Beer House features an impressive selection of local taps and hearty food like poutine, and its relaxed atmosphere is perfect for winding down after a big day. The alpine-themed décor keeps things cozy and casual.
For those chasing something livelier, Queenstown is teeming with late-night hotspots. The World Bar buzzes with energy, serving teapot cocktails and hosting DJs late into the evening. Elsewhere, The Sundeck and Attiqa offer elevated rooftop vibes with skyline views, craft cocktails, and live tunes, perfect for a more stylish night out. If you're in the mood for a more intimate scene, Little Blackwood is a lounge-style bar on Steamer Wharf, boasting espresso martinis by the fireside and frequent live music sets.
Health & Wellness
After skiing hard, unwind with a wellness session in one of Queenstown’s renowned spa facilities. Onsen Hot Pools offers cedar-lined hot tubs perched above the Shotover River, with private tubs, refreshments, and optional massage add-ons—perfect for soothing tired muscles. Body Sanctum, City Cave, and Eforea Spa at Hilton Queenstown each deliver expert treatments, from deep-tissue massage to facials and relaxation lounges. A soak or spa visit is the ideal way to reset before dinner or your next day on the snow.
How To Get To The Remarkables?
Once you are in Queenstown, you don't need a car as there are various options to get to the Remarkables including ski shuttles and public buses. Be warned, you need to both book and pay for the ski shuttle services before you go during the busy season. In quieter times, you can head to a bus station and buy the ticket on the spot, which they will attach to a card that acts as your lift pass as well.
Getting to The Remarkables by Air
The Remarkables are located just outside Queenstown on New Zealand’s South Island. The nearest airport is Queenstown Airport (ZQN), which offers direct flights from major cities in New Zealand and seasonal flights from Australia.
Queenstown Airport to The Remarkables
Distance: About 35 minutes by car (24 kilometers). Travel Time: 30–40 minutes, depending on road conditions.
Transfer Options:
Rental cars (drive yourself)
Daily ski shuttle buses from central Queenstown and Frankton
Private transfer services or hotel-arranged shuttles
Getting to The Remarkables by Car
The Remarkables access road starts just outside Queenstown and climbs 13 km up to the base area. It’s fully sealed and open to all vehicles, though snow chains may be required after fresh snowfall.
Drive Time from:
Queenstown Town Centre: ~35 minutes
Arrowtown: ~45 minutes
Wanaka: ~1 hour 45 minutes (via Crown Range)
Parking is available on-site, with overflow and shuttle service on busy days.
Getting to The Remarkables by Shuttle
Multiple operators run ski shuttles to The Remarkables during the season.
NZSki Buses: Depart from The Station in Queenstown every morning
Hotel Pickups: Available through many Queenstown hotels
Frankton Stops: For those staying closer to the airport or shopping areas
FAQ
Is The Remarkables good for beginners?
Yes, The Remarkables is one of the most beginner-friendly ski resorts in New Zealand. It has dedicated learner zones with conveyor lifts, wide-open groomers, and a progression-friendly layout that makes it easy for new skiers to gain confidence. The on-site Snowsports School offers tailored lessons for all ages, and gear rentals are available at the base, making it a one-stop shop for first-timers.
Is The Remarkables open year-round?
No, The Remarkables is a seasonal ski resort. The ski season typically runs from mid-June through early October, depending on snowfall. Outside of winter, the access road is still open for hiking and sightseeing, but the lifts and facilities are not operational during the off-season.
Can you ski The Remarkables and Coronet Peak in one trip?
Absolutely. Both The Remarkables and Coronet Peak are managed by NZSki and are located just outside Queenstown. Many skiers buy a multi-mountain pass that covers both resorts, and shuttle buses run between town and each mountain daily. It’s easy to spend a day or two at each location and get a full Queenstown skiing experience.
