Fantastic Skiing of the North and South Islands

If 2008 is any indicator, it should be a fantastic 2009 ski season for New Zealand.
From North Island to South Island, the skiing of Aotearoa New Zealand is unsurpassed, and is arguably the most popular destination for winter holidays in the Southern Hemisphere. From Christchurch and Canterbury, to Methven and Mount Ruapehu, a winter adventure holiday is not complete without taking in the snow at one of New Zealand's famed ski sites.

Christchurch and Canterbury Just three hours from Australia's East Coast, Christchurch is located in the heart of New Zealand and is the place to go for superb skiing and heli-skiing. Canterbury boasts a beautiful array of ski fields for the most advanced skiers, yet also accommodates novice skiers and children.

Mt Hutt, located in Canterbury, features a varied terrain and more than 472 hectares of ski area, and is best known for its deep and powdery snow and its extra-long ski season.

The town of Christchurch boasts excellent accommodation, dining and shopping. After an adventurous day on the slopes of Canterbury, skiers can head down to Christchurch and visit its many quaint boutiques, charming cafes and modern galleries. Many visitors to this area also make a point in taking in the Winter Garden ice rink, located in the Cathedral Square.
Visitors to Christchurch and Canterbury may also choose to further their winter holiday in nearby Queenstown and Wanaka, thus rounding out a truly superb, South Island winter holiday.
Methven

Located just 60 minutes from Christchurch is Methven, a winter paradise in the Southern Alps. Located in the heart of NZ, Methven boasts fantastic mountain slopes for extraordinary skiing, and lush, green valleys for plentiful outdoor recreation, such as hiking, golfing and fishing, just to name a few.

Methven also features a wonderful variety of restaurants, bars and nightlife, and great accommodation for even the most discriminating of guests.

Mt Ruapehu

Boasting New Zealand's longest and highest ski areas, Mt Ruapehu is an extraordinary destination for the most exciting adventure holidays. Situated in the heart of North Island, Mt Ruapehu features two ski areas, each with challenging terrain and spectacular views.

Whakapapa, located on the northwestern side of Mt Ruapehu, and Turoa, located on the southwestern side of Mt Ruapehu, provide excellent ski seasons, often extending from mid June to well into October.

Whakapapa is a prime spot for beginners, as it features an excellent beginner's facility, which includes a slow-moving chairlift, a ski school and a place to rent ski equipment. The intermediate and advanced trails of Whakapapa are enough to challenge even the most advanced skiers.

Turoa also features plenty of wide trails, as well as New Zealand's only lift-accessed glacial skiing experience. Turoa also includes three terrain parks, and a popular beginner's area with a carpet lift.

There is one thing about New Zealand that is certain: that it boasts some of the most spectacular skiing destinations in the Southern Hemisphere. From Auckland and Wellington, to Rotorua and Hamilton, there is no other destination in the world that can offer what New Zealand does in terms of ski experiences. From high-end accommodation to excellent cuisine and the best tours for your pleasure, think New Zealand for your next adventure holiday.

New Zealand Travel can provide you with a great variety of cheap travel deals for your winter holiday in New Zealand. Whether you are looking for great accommodation or a comprehensive travel package, New Zealand Travel can arrange for a truly spectacular, New Zealand holiday.
About the Author
Chris Alfreds is Marketing Manager at Australian Travel Wholesalers, helping with all your NZ Ski Accommodation travel needs. Remember to book travel insurance for your holiday.