1. Spring ski conditions

There is something incredibly fun about skiing in spring. The spring snow conditions, and long sunny days have a lot to do with it. The time for bundling up is over. Say goodbye to freezing fingers and numb toes and shed those layers of heavy, winter gear. Skiing in a t-shirt is a real thing.

Spring brings some of the best powder days of the season. Softer snow makes digging in your edges easy and carving super fun but it’s still firm enough that your skis glide. Stable weather creates the perfect environment to learn to ski or test out a new trick. And if we’re lucky, the rising spring temperatures can lead to a late season snow-storm, extending the ski season even further.

Warmer weather and longer daylight hours bring out all the local mountain-goers. It’s easier to drag yourself out of bed when the sun is already up, and there’s the added attraction of spring lift pass deals, quieter pistes, and shorter lift lines. So, don’t be surprised to find locals in colourful ski gear (the more retro the better) making the most of the great conditions and enjoying an end-of-run beverage in the spring sun at one of the mountain's bars.

Spring ski conditions at Coronet Peak

2. Epic on-mountain spring events

Spring is also a great time for on-mountain events. The spring season traditionally kicks off with Winter Pride which brings all the colours of the rainbow and plenty of fun to Queenstown’s ski fields from late August to early September. 

Following this, the Winter Games NZ kicks off not long after. The Winter Games NZ is the biggest snow sports event in the Southern Hemisphere and brings international snowsports athletes to Queenstown to compete over two weeks across Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Cardrona Alpine Resort. From high-octane alpine ski racing to thrilling freeski and snowboard park and pipe events, to the adrenaline inducing freeride events, it's free to catch the action!

But the fun doesn't stop there. One of the world’s biggest on-snow festivals combines the best of skiing and music across five action packed days. Snow Machine is set in the heart of Queenstown, Coronet Peak, and The Remarkables. 

Snow Machine. Credit @snowmachinefest

3. Longer days = more adventures

The longer daylight hours in spring also means there is much more time for activities. Ski the morning, grab some lunch and head off for your next adventure on land, lake, or sky. Your Queenstown holiday will feel twice as long if you take advantage of all the amazing experiences on offer.  

Here are just a few of our favourite options for to experience spring like a local:

• Step up your freestyle skills in the world-class parks of Cardrona Alpine Resort. In case your adrenaline fix is not totally maxed out, try paragliding, skydiving, ziplining or bungy jumping in the afternoon.
• Ski like a local and start your day with first tracks at Coronet Peak, an easy 20-minute drive from downtown Queenstown. Then, spend a relaxed afternoon at one of Queenstown’s beautiful golf courses or jump on a bike and explore the Queenstown trail network, one of New Zealand's great rides. 
• Lap The Remarkables from first lift till last and drop by Jack’s Point Restaurant or one of the fantastic cafes and bars in Frankton the way home for a sunset drink.

Cardrona Park

4. Extra daylight for al fresco dining and après-ski

The initial winter hype has passed and alpine life in spring has a more relaxed and playful vibe to it. As the sun stays out longer, locals begin to lounge on every deck, terrace and outdoor space. The après ski scene is made for spring – good music, good vibes and good weather unsurprisingly makes for a really good time.

Enjoy the outdoor bars on-mountain with their seating in the sunshine – what better way to celebrate the season than with a locally brewed beer on the deck with friends and family?

There are also plenty of spots to dine al fresco. From the restaurants and cafés at the ski fields, to lakefront pubs in downtown Queenstown, there’s a wealth of possibilities and enough daylight hours to try them all.

Ice Bar at The Remarkables

5. Stay longer to explore this outdoor lovers' paradise

Spring in Queenstown is a season where you can experience everything the region has to offer. While skiing is still happening at the four local ski fields, lower down the mountains and on the green valley floors, spring is opening up all Queenstown’s outdoor options. It’s possible to mountain bike, golf, and ski all in one day if you’re feeling energetic.

Trails are drying out, and mild spring days make for perfect hiking conditions. So, whether you’re keen to try the many stunning short strolls around Queenstown, Arrowtown, and Glenorchy, or tick off one of the iconic local Great Walks, don’t forget to pack your boots.

The network of biking tracks that make up the Queenstown Trail invite you to go on a biking adventure. Cycle from Queenstown or Arrowtown into Gibbston to tour the wineries, or head out along Lake Whakatipu to admire the panoramic views. If you haven’t biked for a while, try an e-bike for an accessible cycling adventure for all ages and levels of fitness.

There’s little to beat teeing off in spring at one of Queenstown’s eight golf courses with the warm, spring sun on your back. And of course, Queenstown is also one of the world’s best places to get your adrenaline pumping, with adventures for everyone.

A spring day in the mountains could start with skiing or snowboarding in the morning followed by a round of disc golf, a hike, or even a bike ride in the afternoon. So, stay for at least a week, slow down, settle in, and immerse yourself in the outdoors to make the most of all spring has to offer in Queenstown.

Lake Hayes Walkway