5 Reasons to Spring into a New Zealand Ski Holiday

September and October are the perfect months to plan a ski holiday in New Zealand’s South Island. The maritime climate is dominated by two main geographical features, the mountains and the sea. The South Island’s proximity to both gives it a fantastic, long ski season, lasting into mid-October.

There is still time to plan one last blast in the snow – here are five reasons you should visit the South Island in spring:

1. More sun – the days are getting longer, which means more slope time. Also, the weather is warming up, eliminating the need for bulky cold-weather gear and giving you more après ski opportunities. Grab some fish n’ chips and head down to Lake Wakatipu (Queenstown) or Lake Wanaka. Or take a day off to go mountain biking or jet-boating.

2. Reliable snow – the base is built up and – even with the longer, warmer days – it’s still cold at elevation. September offers everything from winter powder to spring conditions. Even if town seems bare, don’t worry – the mountains are a different story.

3. Reduced crowds – most people race to the snow in July and early August, with the busy season peaking over school holidays. From mid-August through September, the slopes remain uncrowded. (The next round of ski holidays kick off 24^th September – 9^th October).

4. Better deals – fewer people means better deals on accommodation and rentals. Do your homework: you might stumble across a real gem.

5. Town is more fun – the après ski vibe doesn’t disappear at the beginning of spring. With warmer, longer, blue sky days, new colours and blooming trees and plants, everyone feels a little giddy with spring fever. You’ll find people are making the most of the outdoors. They’ll dash off a few runs, then head back to town for a run or hike, or they’ll head out kayaking, or relax in the sun at an outdoor café.

What’s on this spring?

Spring is a great time to visit New Zealand, with cities and towns buzzing with activity. Longer days mean more fun on and off the slopes and the events calendar is really busy this year. Come see for yourself all that spring has to offer!

Queenstown is one of the most picturesque locations to visit any time of the year, but springtime in particular offers great fun and variety of activities.

Check out Cardrona’s Spring Pass offer and be in to win the ultimate spring break experience for you and your friends.

You can also enjoy The Remarkables and Coronet Peak on a single Spring Pass.

Porters and Mt Dobson have great special deals too, so make sure to check them our if you’re heading that way.