New Zealand is one of the worlds most beautiful skiing destinations. Hidden away in the deep latitudes of the South Pacific Ocean, is a holiday destination like no other. The two main islands that make up the western nation of New Zealand have a latitude ranging from about 35 degrees south to about 47 degrees south and this combined with high and rugged mountain ranges means its really cold in the winter and there is lots and lots of snow. Music to the ears of the skiing fraternity I hear you say.

There are skiing resorts on both the north and the south islands. At the southern end of the north island is the highly volcanic region known as the Tongoriro National Park and in this region you can actually visit a modern ski resort located on an active volcano. This resort is called Whakapapa and it is located on Mount Ruapehu. The skiing and snowboarding here is fantastic as lava flows in the past have produced natural half pipes to add to the steep slopes. The south island has more ski resorts and they are scattered throughout the island. The best places to go to for a skiing holiday are Christchurch and Queenstown. As there is no on snow accommodation in New Zealand you need to find accommodation in a nearby town and these two places are great for this purpose. Near Christchurch there are ski fields at Mount Hutt, Hanmer Springs, Porter heights and a number of other places. Near Queenstown or Wanaka are ski fields like Coronet Peak, Mount Oahu, Cardrona, The Remarkables, and Treble Cone. These all have wonderful snow conditions and everything you would expect from a modern ski resort.

There is excellent skiing in some other places in the Southern Hemisphere but New Zealand offers so much more to add to your skiing holiday