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Just starting out? You probably have a ton of questions and luckily, we’ve got answers! Below is a cheat sheet of the most asked questions that beginner skiers and snowboarders might have.

So, what do you need to know? How can you plan your trip?

What should I wear?

The weather on mountain can change dramatically, so it’s best to be prepared. Wear layers. The innermost layer should be a light thermal – Kiwis often wear merino, because it’s a great way to stay comfortable and warm. You’ll also want to wear an insulated midlayer. Take a wind and waterproof jacket, gloves, balaclava or buff, beanie, goggles, and suntan lotion (if it’s sunny).

Where can I get gear?

Skis, poles, snowboards and boots can be rented from the on-mountain rental facilities or in Wānaka town. High quality, new gear is available from hire shops.

How do I get there?

Both Cardrona Alpine Resort and Treble Cone Ski Area offer resort buses that can pick you up from the base of the mountain. If you choose to self-drive your car up the mountain (a 30-40 minute drive from Wānaka), you will need to ensure you have snow chains in case of severe weather during the day. Please consider carpooling up the mountains if you choose to self-drive, for the sake of the environment. There are also excellent twice daily shuttle services from Wānaka that will pick up and drop off at your accommodation.

Which mountain should I go to?

There are epic ski areas in Wānaka. Check them out below!

Cardrona Alpine Resort
Cardrona Alpine Resort
Downhill skiing and snowboarding plus world-class freestyle facilities. Terrain is an even spread of beginner, intermediate, advanced and expert trails.
Treble Cone Ski Area
Treble Cone Ski Area
Downhill skiing and snowboarding plus epic backcountry access. Majority of terrain is suitable for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders with a few trails available for beginners.
Snow Farm
Snow Farm
55km of cross-country trail and 24km of snowshoeing. An even spread of beginner, intermediate and expert terrain. Snow Fun Zone includes tubing and tobogganing.

What if I want a personalized experience?

If you’re an intermediate to advanced skier and are in the market for something a little more custom, check out cat-skiing or heliskiing experiences.

Okay, I’m on mountain now what?

Check out learn to ski or snowboard packages – there are a variety to choose from. One- to three-day packages include everything you will need to get started including lift passes, lessons and rentals. If you want to purchase ahead of time, you can call or stop in to the Wānaka i-SITE Centre or at the Cardrona-Treble Cone Basecamp.