Cardrona Alpine Resort is a popular ski area located in New Zealand's South Island, offering a range of winter and summer alpine adventure activities.
Founded in 1980, Cardrona is now open for both winter skiing and snowboarding, as well as a range of summer activities. The resort is conveniently nestled between Queenstown and Wanaka, making it easily accessible for visitors.
The ski field at Cardrona Alpine Resort ranges from 1,260m to 1,860m, with a distribution of slopes that is 25% beginner, 25% intermediate, 30% advanced, and 20% expert. There are 2 detachable quad chairlifts, 2 fixed-grip quad chairlifts, 1 detachable express chondola, 3 surface conveyor learner lifts, and 1 platter lift to service the halfpipes and big air jump. Snowmaking supplements the 2.9m average annual snowfall. Freestyle snowboarding and skiing are well catered for with 2 half pipes and 4 terrain parks. There is also a "high performance centre" which trains more advanced skiers and snowboarders. Families with infants and young children can use child care facilities provided in the Cardrona Nursery and Ski Kindy.
Cardrona Alpine Resort offers something for everyone, from those experiencing the joy of skiing in New Zealand for the first time, to those who just can’t live without their fix of winter excitement! The resort has very diverse facilities, including 8 different cafés and restaurants, 15 on-mountain apartments, a covered Learner Conveyor to make learning to ski easy, a fully-licensed early childcare centre, the South Island’s most extensive lift facilities, and the Southern Hemisphere’s most extensive terrain parks and halfpipes. Cardrona is home to the McDougall's Chondola, New Zealand's first cabin-style lift on a ski area. The resort is owned by Real Journeys, which is part of the privately-owned Wayfare Group, subsequently rebranded as RealNZ.
For visitors who want to stay on the mountain, Cardrona offers New Zealand's only on-mountain accommodation. There are 15 on-mountain apartments at Cardrona, made up of 3 configurations. Advance bookings are essential due to the high demand. Visitors can also find accommodation in Queenstown or Wanaka for their New Zealand holiday.
In conclusion, Cardrona Alpine Resort is a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, as well as those who enjoy a range of winter and summer alpine adventure activities. With its diverse facilities, convenient location, and stunning views, Cardrona is the ultimate mountain playground in New Zealand.