Which ski field in Queenstown is good for beginners?
David Harris
| Last Updated: October 2023 I still vividly remember the first time I clicked into my bindings, staring down at the untouched, glistening snow on the slopes. As an eager, albeit slightly terrified beginner, I was unsure of which ski field would be the most accommodating for my lack of experience.
So, I embarked on a journey to find the best ski field in Queenstown for beginners like myself. The thrill of that first run, the exhilaration of the crisp mountain air, and the challenge of navigating those initial slopes—all these experiences have led me to share my insights with fellow ski beginners like yourselves.
So, no doubt, you probably want to know which ski fields in Queenstown are the best for beginners?
The best ski fields in Queenstown for beginners are Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and the Cardrona Alpine Resort. All of these places have beginner-friendly slopes, lessons, and great accessibility.
Let’s learn a little bit more about these places!
Coronet Peak
Coronet Peak’s beginner-friendly features, comprehensive ski lessons, convenient location, and early morning access make it an excellent choice for those new to skiing.
Tailored for Beginners
Coronet Peak boasts a dedicated area for beginners called “Big Easy”. This space is specifically designed to provide a safe and comfortable environment for novice skiers to learn and practice their skills.
Moreover, under the Meadows Express chair, there’s another excellent area suitable for beginners to learn skiing or snowboarding.
Comprehensive Lessons
Coronet Peak offers beginners ski lesson packages that include access to four conveyor lifts in the beginners’ area. The ski resort also has its own ski school, where newbies can learn the ropes from experienced instructors.
Convenient Location
Just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, Coronet Peak is the closest ski field to the town. This makes it a convenient option for beginners who might not want to travel far for their first skiing experience.
Early Morning Access
Coronet Peak offers morning First Tracks sessions, granting early access from 8am-9am. This means beginners can take advantage of quieter slopes before the crowds arrive.
The Remarkables
Directions
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM
Phone: +64800697547
Website
From dedicated lifts and slopes to excellent snow conditions and a sunny location, The Remarkables has all the ingredients needed for a beginner to fall in love with skiing or snowboarding
Easy Accessibility
At The Remarkables, beginners are not just an afterthought. They have three dedicated surface conveyor lifts, making it easier for novices to get a feel for the slopes without needing to navigate more advanced ski lifts.
For many first-timers at The Remarkables, the Alta chair is their initial lift. The Alta chair offers a couple of options for new skiers, including the Turquoise Run. This variety provides beginners with the opportunity to try different terrains and challenges at their own pace.
Moreover, The Remarkables offers a Beginner Pass that gives access to the beginner lifts. This pass is an affordable way for beginners to experience the thrill of skiing, without the pressure of venturing onto more advanced slopes before they’re ready.
Large Slopes
The resort boasts two large beginner slopes. The first slope is gentler, providing an ideal space for initial practice. Once beginners gain a bit of confidence, they can then move to the second slope, which is slightly steeper.
This tiered approach allows for a smooth transition as beginners gradually improve their skills.
Terrain and Location
What makes The Remarkables truly remarkable isn’t just the world-class facilities but also the terrain and location. The ski field has a large learner’s area with an ideal pitch, allowing beginners to progress and become confident.
The snow conditions are consistently excellent, often described as perfect and powdery. The Remarkables is also a sunny, north-facing ski area, making it an ideal spot for beginners who are still getting used to the cold weather conditions that come with the sport.
Cardrona Alpine Resort
Address: Cardrona Valley Rd, Cardrona 9305, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 4 PM
Phone: +6434438880
Website
Cardrona Alpine Resort stands out as a great ski field for beginners because of its eginner-friendly facilities, comprehensive lesson packages, and stunning location. It’s no wonder that it’s often touted as one of the best places to learn to ski in New Zealand.
Accessibility
Unlike many ski resorts where beginners are confined to the lower slopes, at Cardrona, you can visit the top of the mountain on your first day. This offers a unique opportunity to soak in the stunning views and get a feel for the mountain, adding an extra touch of excitement to your first skiing experience.
Comprehensive Beginner Packages
Cardrona offers comprehensive beginner packages, which make it easy for first-timers to experience the thrill of skiing. These packages include access to the beginner area, lessons, and ski/snowboard equipment.
The resort provides ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and abilities, ensuring that everyone can learn at their own pace and comfort level.
Ideal Terrain and Facilities
Cardrona is known for its wide-open slopes that provide ample space for novice skiers to practice their turns without feeling crowded. Also, the resort features a ‘chondola’, a combined lift of gondola cabins and chairs, making it easy for first-time skiers to navigate the mountain.
