Skiing in New Zealand can be considered relatively expensive compared to other countries known for skiing. The cost of lift tickets, accommodations, and overall expenses can add up quickly, making it a pricey destination for winter sports enthusiasts. However, there are ways to save money and find more affordable options for those looking to hit the slopes in New Zealand.
What is the Cost Comparison of Skiing in New Zealand?
Lift Ticket Prices
- New Zealand: Average lift ticket prices range from NZ$75 to NZ$160 per day, with the cheapest option being Hanmer Springs Ski Area at NZ$75 and the most expensive being Treble Cone and Cardrona at NZ$160.
- Australia: Lift ticket prices in Australia are generally higher, with a single day pass costing around AU$200, but can be reduced to AU$150 with a multi-day pass.
- Canada: Lift ticket prices in Canada vary by resort, but a single day pass can cost around CAD$100 to CAD$150.
- Switzerland: Lift ticket prices in Switzerland are generally higher, with a single day pass costing around CHF$100 to CHF$150.
Accommodation Costs
- New Zealand: Accommodation costs in New Zealand can vary depending on the location and type of accommodation. However, staying in Wanaka or Queenstown can be relatively cheaper than staying in Australian ski resorts.
- Australia: Accommodation costs in Australia are generally higher, especially in popular ski resorts like Jindabyne.
Overall Expenses
- New Zealand: The average cost per person of a NZ snowfields holiday is around NZ$263.90 per day, which is more than double the cost of an Australian snowfields holiday.
- Australia: The average cost per person of an Australian snowfields holiday is around AU$130 per day.
What are the Cheapest Ski Resorts in New Zealand?
If you’re looking to save money on your skiing trip in New Zealand, here are some of the cheapest ski resorts:
| Ski Resort | Average Lift Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Hanmer Springs Ski Area | NZ$75 per day |
| Mt Lyford | NZ$95 per day |
| Mt Olympus | NZ$85 per day |
| Temple Basin | NZ$85 per day |
| Craigieburn | NZ$99 per day |
How Can You Save Money on Lift Tickets and Accommodations?
Discounts
- Multi-day passes can reduce lift ticket prices significantly.
- Joining club fields can also reduce lift ticket prices by half.
Early Booking Strategies
- Booking flights and accommodations in advance can lead to significant savings.
Loyalty Programs
- The Chill Pass offers access to up to 13 club fields across the South and North Island, with a 30-day pass costing NZ$900 per adult.
- The Mountain Collective and Ikon Pass offer access to multiple resorts worldwide, including some in New Zealand.
By taking advantage of these strategies, you can potentially save a significant amount of money on your skiing trip in New Zealand, making it a more affordable destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Reference:
- https://www.mountainwatch.com/Snow-news/the-cost-of-skiing-a-global-round-up-of-international-ski-resort-prices/
- https://www.snowsbest.com/australia-new-zealand-ski-lift-tickets/
- https://www.snowsbest.com/the-true-cost-of-a-budget-ski-trip-hint-its-lots/