Powder & White Gold - Snow + Ski New Zealand
New Zealand is an internationally renowned ski and snowboard holiday destination, offering a staggering variety of experiences against the backdrop of some mighty fine scenery.
When it comes to skiing and snowboarding, New Zealand's got it all! Ski fields cover everything from fully equipped resorts to small club fields accessed by hiking in through pristine forest. In addition to a range of fields for downhill skiing and snowboarding, there's also a cross-country ski area, terrain parks for snowboards and the opportunity to try the unforgettable experience of heli-skiing. Slopes are generally less crowded than those on the continents and lift queues are shorter. Because it's in the southern hemisphere, the snow is falling when America and Europe are out of action. An alpine climate of crisp sunny days and frosty nights, and reliable snowfall mean plenty of fine, dry powder. Even when there's snow on the mountains, everything is lush and green down below, so there's a great range of other activities to enjoy when you're not on the slopes.
Anyone can ski New Zealand. Beginners will find plenty of places to hone their skills - or to enjoy their very first snow adventure. Expert tuition is offered at many skifields and larger fields offer dedicated areas for learners. Those with more experience will delight in the variety of adventures available. And for extreme skiers and snowboarders, New Zealand is the ultimate destination. From commercial to club fields you'll find plenty of ways to stimulate your adrenaline and if that's not challenge enough, there's always the option of heliskiing some of the country's most remote peaks and basins. Whatever your skill level, you'll quickly discover that nothing compares with the feeling of getting out on the slopes in some of the world's most spectacular scenery.
You can bring your own gear or pick up what you need in New Zealand. Renting or purchasing good quality equipment is easy in cities and ski resorts - most skifields also rent gear on-site. Unlike many northern hemisphere fields, most New Zealand ski fields do not offer accommodation on-site. Instead, you'll leave the mountain at the end of the day and take a short drive to a nearby resort town. The advantage is variety: you'll find plenty of accommodation and restaurants to suit every budget. Major ski resort towns are renowned for offering a great variety of after-dark entertainment - in some places the party lasts all winter. And if you need a break from the slopes, you'll find plenty of other activities, from a leisurely soak in a hot pool or a peaceful round of golf to an adrenaline pumping bungy-jump or jetboat ride. All winter, New Zealand is the ultimate place to ski and snowboard.
Brown Bear Ski & Snowboard Guide
For the ultimate insider's guide to skiing and snowboarding in New Zealand, get your hands on a copy of the Brown Bear Ski & Snowboard Guide. The only guide of its type recommended by both Lonely Planet and Rough Guide - and it's free! Pick up your copy at any good ski and snowboard rent or retail outlet, or order online at www.brownbear.co.nz
With Brown Bear you'll be able to plan your entire ski and snowboard holiday.
This guide has everything you need:
: Ski Area Details - prices, terrain, features and trail maps
: Regional Information - what to expect in the area
: Activities - what to do when you're off the slopes
: Accommodation - where to stay, whatever your budget
: Apres Ski - eating out and entertaining yourself
: Transport - to the mountain and around the country