Often described as the most beautiful destination in New Zealand, Queenstown has a lot to offer. From June to September, Queenstown is adorned with fun winter activities for any traveler who wants to experience exciting adventures amidst stunning lakes and mountains. Below we have compiled a list of some of our favorite winter activities that are sure to be some of the best experiences. Let us know if you have any questions and have safe winter travels!
Coronet Night Ski: 21 June – 1 September
Experience the dazzling Night Ski at Coronet Peak, illuminating the slopes from 4-9pm every Wednesday, Friday, and select Saturday nights during the months of June to September. Night Skiing is a must-try winter adventure in Queenstown, complete with incredible DJs, cozy outdoor fires, pristine trails, refreshing cold beer, and mouthwatering hot pizza.
New Zealand Mountain Film Festival: 29 June – 30 June
The 21st NZ Mountain Film Festival takes place at the Queenstown Memorial Centre and showcases a diverse array of films, engaging guest speakers, and compelling presentations by inspirational adventurers. This exhilarating two-day event in Queenstown serves as a grand celebration of adventurous sports and lifestyles, catering to adventurers and film and book enthusiasts.
DFS Winter Fireworks: 30 June
Embrace the chilly weather and join in the festivities of the DFS Winter Fireworks on Friday, 30th June. In addition to captivating fireworks lighting up Queenstown Bay at 6:30pm, you can also enjoy street performances, pop-up stalls, engaging kids’ activities, and much more, all commemorating the lively spirit of the winter season in Queenstown.
Matariki Arrowtown Lights: 14 July
Matariki heralds the arrival of the M?ori new year, symbolizing the transition of seasons and the renewal of life. To commemorate this occasion, K?-Muriwai Arrowtown will be hosting the Matariki Arrowtown Lights celebrations. This vibrant event will feature captivating performances by local school groups, immersive displays, and an enlightening session by an astrophysicist, who will unveil the wonders of the Otago night skies. Head to Arrowtown to come together to celebrate the Matariki public holiday and embrace the spirit of this cherished tradition.
Winter Pride: 25 August – 3 September
Get ready for the highly anticipated return of Winter Pride Queenstown, featuring an incredible program of over 40 events spanning ten days, both on and off the ski field. The Pride Party Series promises to captivate festival-goers with an array of themed dinners, musical performances, boat parties, karaoke nights, side-splitting comedy shows, and much more. Additionally, there will be thrilling on-mountain events taking place at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona Alpine Resort, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities.
Winter Games: 25 August – 16 September
Winter Games NZ is renowned as the largest snow and sports event in the Southern Hemisphere, drawing in top-tier ski and snowboard athletes from around the globe for a thrilling two-week spectacle held from late August to September. Spanning across Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona Alpine Resort, the competition schedule of the games is brimming with a wide array of exhilarating events. From heart-pounding alpine ski racing to captivating free ski and snowboard park and pipe competitions, and even pulse-pounding freeride events, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-inducing action to be experienced.
Snow Machine: 5 September – 10 September
Get ready for the highly anticipated return of Snow Machine to Queenstown this winter! Prepare to be thrilled by an outstanding music lineup featuring renowned acts such as Peking Duk, Art vs Science, Hilltop Hoods, and many others. Spanning across four action-packed days, this festival will take place on three stages, captivating audiences in iconic locations including Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Queenstown town centre. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience that is bound to leave a lasting impression.
Peak to Peak: 9 September
The Peak to Peak is a prestigious winter multi-sport race, standing as the longest-running event of its kind in New Zealand. Annually, it takes place between the magnificent locations of The Remarkables and Coronet Peak. Athletes participate either individually or as part of a team, commencing their journey at the summit of the Remarkables Ski Area. From there, they navigate down the slopes on skis or snowboards, swiftly transitioning to cycling as they descend along The Remarkables Ski Area access road, leading them to the picturesque Frankton Beach. Following this leg, competitors embark on an exhilarating kayak across the waters to Queenstown Bay Beach, before dashing through the heart of central Queenstown. Finally, the race concludes with a thrilling bike ride from Arthur’s Point, culminating at the renowned Coronet Peak.