Southern Hemisphere Ski Trip

One of the main highlights of this Southern Hemisphere ski trip was visiting top ski resorts in both Australia and New Zealand. We skied Thredbo in Australia, then explored The Remarkables and Coronet Peak in New Zealand, successfully checking off three iconic resorts in one journey.

While all three mountains offered solid infrastructure, the New Zealand ski resorts had a slight edge — not because of better facilities, but because of the overall experience:

1. Convenient location: staying in beautiful Queenstown, enjoying great restaurants in town, and reaching the slopes within just thirty minutes made skiing incredibly convenient.
2. Softer snow: snow conditions were generally less icy than in Australia.
3. Stunning scenery: dramatic cloud inversions and glowing alpine sunsets over the mountains created unforgettable views.

After long days on the slopes, we treated ourselves to Queenstown’s famous venison and lamb burgers — the perfect post-ski reward. With Southern Hemisphere skiing officially unlocked, winter sports no longer have to be seasonal. Skiing can truly be a year-round adventure.

Australia & New Zealand Ski FAQ

How does skiing in the Southern Hemisphere differ from the Northern Hemisphere?
Skiing in the Southern Hemisphere offers a unique experience: seasons are opposite, snow conditions can be softer, and the scenery—from alpine sunsets to dramatic landscapes—is unforgettable. While Northern Hemisphere resorts may have more extensive infrastructure, the Southern Hemisphere charm lies in its adventure and fewer crowds.

Which resort is best for families with kids?
In our experience, Queenstown’s resorts are very family-friendly, with convenient transportation, proximity to the airport, plenty of hotel options, and beginner-friendly lifts and slopes. These factors make planning and skiing with kids much easier.

Kids' ski gear & clothing tips:
Dress in layers, choose waterproof jackets and pants, and always use helmets and goggles. Renting gear at the resorts is usually convenient and ensures a proper fit for growing kids.

Best time to visit & snow conditions:
The ski season in Australia and New Zealand generally runs from June to October. July and August usually offer the most reliable snow, while early or late season may have variable conditions. New Zealand’s slopes often have softer, less icy snow, which can be ideal for families and beginners.

For the full Southern Hemisphere itinerary, including Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, see our Southern Hemisphere family trip guide here.

Explore more family travel destinations here.