Your Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Skiing and Snowboarding in Queenstown

Brand new ‘Boa’ lacing snowboard boots for 2025

Skis vs. Snowboard: Which Should You Choose?

The eternal question! Both are awesome, but here's the honest breakdown:

Choose Skiing If You:

• Want faster initial progress

• Prefer feeling more stable and balanced

• Like the idea of using poles for balance

• Want to tackle varied terrain sooner

Choose Snowboarding If You:

• Don't mind a steeper learning curve initially

• Love board sports (skateboarding, surfing, wakeboarding)

• Want to look effortlessly cool (once you get the hang of it!)

• Prefer having both feet secured to one board

🔥 Hot Tip: Take your time choosing—both skiing and snowboarding offer incredible experiences on Queenstown's mountains!

What to Wear: Dressing for Success on the Slopes

Layering is everything in mountain weather. Here's your foolproof system:

The Three-Layer System

Base Layer (Against Your Skin): Start with merino wool or synthetic thermals that have moisture-wicking properties. Avoid cotton—it gets wet and stays wet, leaving you cold and uncomfortable.

Mid Layer (Insulation): Add a fleece or down jacket that's easy to remove if you get too warm. Zip-up options give you the best temperature control throughout the day.

Outer Layer (Weather Protection): Top it off with a waterproof ski jacket and pants made from breathable fabric to prevent overheating. Make sure they have plenty of pockets for your essentials.

Essential Accessories

Must-Haves:

• Waterproof gloves (bring a spare pair!)

• Ski goggles (better than sunglasses in snow)

• Warm hat or beanie

• High SPF sunscreen (mountain sun is intense, especially in New Zealand)

• Lip balm with SPF

Nice-to-Haves:

• Hand warmers for really cold days

• Neck gaiter or balaclava

• Spare socks (keep your feet happy)

Getting to the Mountains: Your Transport Options

One of the biggest decisions for your ski day is how to get up the mountain. Both driving and taking the bus have their pros and cons—here's what you need to know:

Driving to the Ski Fields

The Pros:

• Complete flexibility with timing and departure

• Ability to explore different areas at your own pace

• Space for all your gear and extra supplies

• Can leave early to beat crowds or stay late for sunset skiing

The Cons:

• Snow chains are mandatory to carry and know how to use on all vehicles during winter. The weather can change fast.

• Practice fitting chains beforehand—doing it for the first time in freezing conditions is no fun

• Early morning traffic jams can be intense, especially on powder days

• Parking fills up quickly at popular resorts and you may be forced into a lower car park if your car is not full on busy car pool dedicated days

• Icy, winding mountain roads require confident winter driving skills

• Fuel costs and chain rental fees add up

🚗 Pro Tip: If you do drive, leave by 7:00am to beat the worst traffic and secure parking. Many rental car companies include chains, but always confirm this when booking.

Taking the NZSKI Bus (Our Recommendation!)

Why we love the bus option:

• Departs every 15 minutes right outside our Duke Street store

• No parking stress or chain requirements

• Experienced drivers who know the mountain roads

• Relax and enjoy the scenery instead of white-knuckling the steering wheel

• Pre-book online for guaranteed seats

• Often works out cheaper than driving when you factor in fuel and chains

The convenience factor is huge—grab your gear from us, walk three steps to the bus stop, and you're on your way up the mountain. No fuss, no stress, just pure mountain anticipation.

Book your transport and gear together →

Your First Day: A Step-by-Step Success Plan

The Night Before

1. Check the weather forecast and snow conditions

2. Pick up your rental gear from Snowbiz (after 2pm)

3. Get a good night's sleep (you'll need the energy!)

4. Pack your day bag with snacks, water, and extras

Morning of Your First Day

6:30am - Wake Up and Fuel Up

• Eat a hearty breakfast—you'll burn tons of calories

• Hydrate well (mountain air is dehydrating)

• Double-check your gear and day pack

7:15am - Head to Our Shop Get your final gear check with our expert team, pick up your lift pass and any last-minute additions, then board the NZSKI bus right outside our door—no walking required!

Reserve your ski and snowboard equipment now →

8:30am - Arrive at the Mountain

• Sign up for beginner lessons (seriously, don't skip this!)

• Meet your instructor and group

• Start with the basics on the gentle slopes

Your First Lesson: What to Expect

Skiing Basics:

• Getting comfortable with boots and skis

• The wedge turn (pizza slice shape)

• Stopping and speed control

• Using the magic carpet (beginner lift)

Snowboarding Basics:

• Strapping in and getting balanced

• Falling safely (you'll do this a lot!)

• Heel-side and toe-side turns

• Linking turns together

Understanding the Mountain: Slopes and Safety

If you look at the trail map or on slope markers there’s easy colour coding to help you go the slopes that match your ability. 

Our top tip would be to use these colours as a guide but remember one of the best tips we’ve heard is to remember that when you look down, all slopes are ‘white’ (with snow). 

Ski to your ability and don’t get too worked up about the colours as you progress, just don’t get caught out by skiing a black on your first day as it could put you off for the wrong reasons.

Slope Difficulty Levels

Green (Beginner)

• Gentle slopes under 25% gradient

• Wide, groomed runs perfect for learning

• Your home base for the first day or two

Blue (Intermediate)

• Moderate slopes with some steeper sections

• Your goal after mastering green runs

• More challenging but still manageable

Red (Advanced)

• Steeper gradient, and a bit of a step up from Blue

• Be confident with your turns before heading up here —work up to these over time

• Requires more technique and confidence

Black (Expert)

• Steep, challenging terrain

• Not for beginners—work up to these over time

• Requires solid technique and confidence

Mountain Safety Rules

The Skier's Code:

1. Always stay in control and ski within your ability

2. People ahead of you have the right of way

3. Stop in safe, visible locations

4. Observe all posted signs and warnings

5. If you're involved in an accident, stay to help

Weather Awareness:

• Check conditions before heading up

• Be prepared for sudden changes

• Know when to head inside (visibility, wind, extreme cold)

Falling Like a Pro (Because You Will!)

Everyone falls—even Olympic skiers! Here's how to do it safely:

Skiing Falls

• Sit down to the side rather than backward

• Keep your skis parallel and downhill

• Use your poles to help get back up

• Don't panic—take your time

Snowboarding Falls

• Fall on your knees rather than your hands

• Roll with the fall when possible

• Keep your wrists straight to avoid injury

• Use your board edge to help stand up

🩹 Remember: A few falls are part of the learning process. Wear protective gear and don't be afraid to take breaks when you need them.

 

Beyond the Slopes: Queenstown's Epic Après-Ski Scene

Half the fun of a Queenstown ski trip happens after you've hung up your boots!

View of Remarkables from a waterfront walk

Classic Après-Ski Spots

Mountain Venues:

• Heidi's Hut at Coronet Peak—cozy log cabin vibes

• The Remarkables Ice Bar—drinks with a view

• Base building lounges—perfect for immediate post-ski relaxation

Queenstown Town:

• The Bunker—intimate cocktail bar

• Steamer Wharf—great vibe walking around this area with lots of waterfront bars and restaurants

• Local breweries—try some New Zealand craft beer

Evening Activities

Chill Options:

• Lakefront walks with stunning mountain views

• Spa treatments to soothe sore muscles

• Cozy cafes for hot chocolate and planning tomorrow

Adventure Options:

• Scenic gondola rides for sunset views

• Jet boating on Lake Wakatipu

• Bungee jumping (if you're feeling brave!)

Rest Day Activities (Trust Us, You'll Need Them)

Your legs will thank you for taking a day off the slopes!

Adrenaline Activities

• Shotover Jet boat rides

• Skydiving with mountain views

• Zipline tours through forests

• AJ Hackett bungy jumping

Relaxed Exploration

• Wine tours in Central Otago

• Arrowtown historic gold mining town

• Lake cruises on vintage steamships

• Shopping in downtown Queenstown

Recovery-Focused

• Spa days and massage therapy

• Hot pools and relaxation

• Gentle hiking around the lakes

• Food tours of local restaurants

Advanced Tips for Beginner Success

Progression Strategy

1. Master the basics before moving to harder terrain

2. Take multiple lessons rather than just one

3. Practice on different types of snow and conditions

4. Build up your mountain legs gradually

5. Don't rush—enjoy the learning process

Physical Preparation

• Strengthen your core before your trip

• Work on balance and stability

• Build cardiovascular fitness

• Stretch regularly to prevent injury

Mental Game

• Stay positive about falls and setbacks

• Set realistic goals for each day

• Celebrate small victories

• Don't compare yourself to others

Money-Saving Tips for Your Queenstown Ski Trip

Rental Savings

Book online with us for big savings on multi-day rentals, take advantage of package deals combining rentals and lift passes, and consider off-peak timing for better rates. Group discounts are also available for larger parties.

Check out our latest deals →

Lift Pass Deals

• Multi-day passes offer better value

• Early season and late season discounts

• Combo passes for multiple resorts

• Package deals through accommodation

General Queenstown Tips

• Cook some meals in accommodation kitchens

• Happy hour specials at bars and restaurants

• Free activities like hiking and lake walks

• Shoulder season visits if your timetable suits it
  Weather changes but in 2024, September was the best month!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which ski field is best for complete beginners?

Coronet Peak is generally considered the most beginner-friendly and more accessible from town, with excellent learning slopes and facilities. Stunning views of the valley and lake as well.

The Remarkables also offers great beginner terrain with spectacular mountainous views but takes slightly longer to access. 

Both are easily accessible from Queenstown.

How many lessons should I book?

At least 2-3 lessons for your first trip. Many beginners benefit from a lesson on day one, practice on day two, and another lesson on day three to refine technique and build confidence.

Should I buy lift passes in advance?

Yes! Buying in advance often saves money, and you can purchase them at our shop when you pick up your rental gear. We'll load everything onto your My Pass card for convenience.

What if the weather is bad?

We offer a 100% refund if all local mountains are closed due to weather. For partial closures or poor visibility, beginners often benefit from taking lessons in those conditions—it's great practice!

Can I switch between skis and snowboard during my trip?

Contact us directly to discuss flexible rental options that might work for your specific needs and trip duration.

How fit do I need to be?

Basic fitness helps, but you don't need to be an athlete. Skiing and snowboarding use different muscles than everyday activities, so expect some soreness regardless of your fitness level.

Your Queenstown Adventure Starts Here

Ready to experience the magic of Queenstown's slopes? With world-class resorts, premium rental gear from our shop, and endless adventures beyond the mountain, your first ski or snowboard experience is going to be absolutely epic.

Book your gear online for the best deals and guaranteed availability. Our expert team at Snowbiz at 7 Duke Street is ready to set you up for success, whether you're conquering your first green run or a seasoned winter sports enthusiast.

Start your mountain adventure here →

The mountains are calling—are you ready to answer?

 

---

 

We've been Queenstown's trusted ski and snowboard rental specialist since 2003. Located in The Station Building at 7 Duke Street, we offer premium equipment, expert fitting services, and unmatched convenience for your Queenstown ski adventure. Book your Queenstown ski and snowboard hire online for the best deals and start your mountain adventure right.