New Zealand’s Ultimate Winter Destinations

With soaring mountains and shimmering icy lakes and snow dusted forests, New Zealand’s Southern Alps become a winter paradise from June through September. Whether you are looking for new adventurous thrills or an exciting family ski trip, our experts at Majordomo and Touch of Spice share these excellent tips for the perfect winter escape to New Zealand. They are also offering a range of special offers to further tempt you to plan your next luxurious wintery getaway to New Zealand. Start dreaming of fabulous wintery adventures below!

Wanaka

According to our experts at Touch of Spice, Wanaka is one of the best places in the Southern Hemisphere to enjoy everything winter has to offer.

“The tranquil lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains offers peaceful serenity, while three surrounding ski fields offer an endless sense of adventure from cross country skiing, tubing, tobogganing, fat biking, dog sledding, and even snowshoeing,” explains Kelcey Radford, Touch of Spice’s marketing director. “When night falls, the town comes alive with a vibrant après ski scene with plenty of local beers, wines and spirits to sample.”

For thrill seekers looking for a different experience other than extreme skiing, Touch of Spice recommends Wanaka’s Ice Driving Experience.

“As the only ice driving experience in the Southern Hemisphere it’s an absolute must-do,” says Radford. “anyone who tries it loves the thrills of drifting on the snow circle and driving along the expertly crafted ice tracks.”

Located at a world leading testing ground and encompassing some of the best cars available today, it’s a fantastic activity – not only reserved for car enthusiasts. This unique experience, that Touch of Spice can arrange for guests staying in their stunning Wanaka luxury rentals, includes helicopter transport to an architecturally designed event centre, a two-course buffet lunch, afternoon tea, canapés and three course dinner.

Where to Stay in Wanaka

Ridge Retreat

With six bedrooms and four bathrooms, Ridge Retreat can comfortably sleep up to 13, the perfect spot for a winter getaway with the extended family and a group of friends.

The large, open plan living, kitchen and dining area ensure you’ll have plenty of space to relax and entertain. The high ceiling and large windows allow for expansive views of Lake Wanaka, and the large chef’s kitchen is a dream. There is also a covered portico with a large open fire and BBQ which can be enjoyed all year round.

Learn more about this beautiful and cozy villa by contacting Touch of Spice here.

Whare Kea Lodge

Strikingly designed in timber and glass, Whare Kea Lodge appears to float on the edge of Lake Wanaka against the dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps.  The inviting lodge, with its light-filled interior and spectacular vistas, was among the first of New Zealand’s luxury lodges and continues to attract sophisticated adventurers looking for exclusive luxury holiday accommodation.

Whare Kea’s superbly comfortable, spacious living and dining area with open fire and bar, its two master suites and four deluxe suites, each with a veranda and en-suite bathroom, offer an ideal combination of shared and private spaces well suited to accommodate small groups of up to 12 guests.

The interior is warm and welcoming, decorated with a mix of antique and contemporary furniture, with artworks and sculpture by local New Zealand artists. There is also a Billiards and Games room, guest office, massage room, sundecks overlooking a vast lawn where helicopters can land, and an outdoor hot tub hidden nearby among the spinnaker grass.

Design your perfect winter getaway at the Whare Kea Lodge with Touch of Spice at this link.

 

Queenstown

Located around 70 kilometers from Wanaka, Queenstown is another key base of the Southern Alps. Sitting at the edge of beautiful Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the spectacular Remarkables Mountains, our experts at MajorDomo recommend this area as the best place for family ski holidays.

Both of Queenstown’s ski fields, Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, offer a range of ski and snowboard lesson packages for children, special lift pass, childcare options and other activities geared towards kids. Children aged five years and under ski for free at both resorts. Beginner skiers can gain confidence on the Remarkables’ two learner areas serviced by three conveyor lifts and take lessons via their Mini-Kea program for four to five year old kids. Coronet Peak has gentle learner slopes, some of which are also open at night.

MajorDomo has a variety of villas within 15 to 20 minutes of the ski area and can have boot fitters arrive to the house with rental equipment and transfers arranged for those not comfortable with winter driving. See some of these below, including the fabulous Mahu Whenua where you don’t even have to leave the property to enjoy the best of winter in Queenstown.

Discover more of our insider tips on extreme skiing in New Zealand in this article.

Where to Stay in and around Queenstown

Mahu Whenua

Staying at the Ridgeline Homestead and Cottages at Mahu Whenua, guests will be perfectly located between New Zealand’s favourite ski towns, Wanaka and Queenstown.

For winter lovers, there is no other location quite like it in New Zealand or Australia. With on-site heli-skiing available, as well as Cardrona, Treble Cone, Snow Farm and Coronet Peak Ski Fields and Soho Basin Cat Skiing literally bordering the property, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

The Ridgeline Homestead truly is a luxurious winter lodge experience in the New Zealand mountains. Nearby there are also plenty of options for non-skiers like dog sledding and snowmobiling. Guests can come back to the Homestead after a day in the snow to après canapés and drinks prepared by Mahu Whenua chef and soak in the spa surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Read more about Mahu Whenua in this feature on this unique property or contact MajorDomo here to enquire.

Absolute Lakefront

Soak up the winter sun and stunning views of the Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables at this gorgeous brand new, very private, lakefront villa. With four bedrooms, excellent open plan living and only 30 minutes away from the Remarkables Ski Area, it’s an ideal option for families on a ski holiday.

Sleek contemporary design and large folding glass doors create a wonderful indoor/outdoor flow out to the balcony where the views can be absorbed next to the pool. The villa has access to a jetty, providing convenience for water taxi pick up and drop off to the center of Queenstown, a quick 10-minute ride.

It’s well equipped with modern furnishings, including a spacious Gaggenau-fitted kitchen, a dream for cooking and entertaining, or a personal in-house chef to cook for you and your family. Each bedroom has king-sized beds, luxurious en-suite bathrooms and views of the lake. In addition to skiing, guests can enjoy hiking around the lake and a variety of other winter activities in and around Queenstown.

Enjoy an amazing family winter vacation to Queenstown by reaching out to MajorDomo at this link. Plus, you could get 20% off thanks to MajorDomo’s special offer. See details below.

 

Special offers!

Need more convincing to plan an upcoming holiday to New Zealand? MajorDomo and Touch of Spice have these current special offers:

MajorDomo is offering up to a 20% discount on a selection of rentals, including the Absolute Lakefront, for any early-bird skiers, or late autumn travelers. This is valid for stays from now until June 24th. Read more here.

Touch of Spice is offering a $100 rate reduction at another great ski base, their Taimana Central Apartment. The offer is valid for stays from 1st July to 8th October 2017. See further details on our Secrets Page here.

They are also offering a complimentary night at their Queenstown Lakefront Luxury for stays from now until June 30th 2017. Scoop up this great deal at this link.

 

The wedding venue is one of the most important considerations for any couple while planning their special day. The destination they choose will come to represent the couple’s eternal love and be forever engrained in the memories of all present on this very important occasion. Whether you’re looking for wild nature, stunning coastlines or soaring mountains, these exceptional locations for destination weddings will wow both you and your guests.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Heavenly Koh Samui island, located in the Gulf of Thailand is an ideal location for a wedding – big or small. On this island paradise, the exclusive and discreet luxury villa estate of Samujana offers guests’ uncompromised privacy surrounded by exquisite beauty.

The expansive estate boasts a prestigious hilltop location and is just a few minutes’ drive from Samui International Airport. Each villa has been individually designed and features a fabulous infinity pool, vast terraces and incredible sea views. Villas vary in size from three to eight bedroom and some include additional amenities like fully-equipped private gyms and home theaters.

For an intimate wedding, the wide terraces, with panoramas of the Gulf of Thailand and gorgeous sunsets, found at one of its private villas would be the ideal location. Medium to large weddings can be held at a dedicated event space, the Big Lawn and Little Lawn, a beautiful three-tiered landscaped area that cascades down to the seafront and which can host up to 200 guests for a banquet and 250 for cocktails. Another possibility is to hire the whole estate for the entire wedding party.

Whether you declare “I do” under a canopy of fragrant tropical flowers on the lawn or high above on a terrace facing the awe-inspiring vistas, the moment is bound to be extremely magical. A DJ, fire show or half day sunset cruise on luxury catamaran and many other options can be easily arranged to celebrate the occasion.

Once you’ve celebrated your big day, the island is also the perfect place to enjoy a romantic honeymoon. Their helpful team can assist in all the details for the wedding and for activities before and after for your group. Start planning with them here.

New Zealand Lakeside, Wanaka

If snowy mountains, fireside cocktails and the great outdoors are your idea of heaven, Wanaka is the natural wedding destination for you. Our experts at Touch of Spice have the perfect villas in the area for the perfect special day in this spectacular part of New Zealand.

“A magical paradise surrounded by untouched scenery and landscapes that look like paintings, it offers breath-taking ceremony backdrops with both lake and mountain views,” tempts Touch of Spice’s Marketing Manager Kelcey Radford.

“With all the comforts of a luxury destination, you are spoilt for choice for boutique accommodation. A stunning riverside estate situated on 17 acres, the Wanaka Wonder estate is available exclusively and is the perfect blank canvas for designing your dream wedding. The property can sleep up to 12 guests in two luxury villas and features manicured lawns and gardens, huge outdoor entertaining areas, a tennis court, swimming pool, steam room, hot tub and pétanque court.

“Alternatively, if a luxury lodge is more your style look no further than Whare Kea Lodge, one of the first luxury lodges in New Zealand. Strikingly designed in timber and glass, it appears to float on the edge of Lake Wanaka against the dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps. With two master suites and four deluxe suites, each with a veranda and en-suite bathroom, along with comfortable, spacious living and dining areas with open fire and bar, it’s the perfect venue for intimate weddings and accommodations for up to 12 guests.”

Celebrate the magnitude of your love in one of the world’s most stunning settings with Touch of Spice at this link.

Canouan, The Grenadines

A total buyout of a chic island resort in the Grenadines, would make the ultimate venue for a destination wedding in a Caribbean oasis with family and friends. Of the 32 island’s of the Grenadines, picturesque Canouan is ringed with beautiful beaches, coves and bays, dense in lush forest and features amazing sea views. This fabulous natural setting, combined with the elegance of the Il Sogno estate by Villas and Apartments Abroad, provide couples with an immensely idyllic setting for their special day.

The beautiful island is abundant in tropical flowers from purple Petunias to the flaming red Flamboyant trees, set against steep green mountains. It benefits from a perfect climate all year round  thanks to the gentle trade winds that blow and sunny days as the norm. In the evenings witness beautiful sunsets along with the ever so gentle fragrance from the gardens, caressing the soul through all the senses.

Set on a hill overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean the Southern Grenadine Islands, Mount Royal, and the Canouan golf course is the lovely 4.2-acre Il Sogno estate. It consists of four one-bedroom cottages, each with a bedroom, bathroom, sitting room and a large verandah, the perfect base for the wedding party with additional guests accommodated nearby. Guests can gather in the Great Room with walls that slide open onto a large verandah, an 18-meter long infinity pool, sun deck, two-story gazebo and outdoor bar and grill. The gorgeous grounds themselves could be the setting of the wedding with their flowers, palms and fruit trees designed to bloom in every season.

“Nearby the estate, there are various special spots to exchange vows,”  explains Sylvia Delvaille Jones, director of Villas and Apartments Abroad. “Such as the beautiful 17th century non-denominational limestone church located at the resort. For those seeking an authentic local wedding, can arrange this in the village  where churches and rum bars coexist side by side – you’re bound to have many well wishers and plenty of cheers.

“The beach is the ultimate venue, the dream choice of so many couples. Some take it a little further, diving together into the blue Caribbean sea decked out in Vera Wong gown and Ralph Lauren suit for that first underwater kiss. A waiter is ready to serve the prize couple that glass of champagne once they have emerged.

“For the golfers, the island’s 18-hole PGA Jim Fazio designed course beats all other venues. The ceremony can be arranged at the 13th hole, known by golfers to be one of the most challenging, which prides itself on being at the most prominent spot on the course. It’s also the spot with the most brilliant sunset, painting the most amazing backdrop just for the occasion. The party can carry on with celebratory fireworks, flowing bubbly, delicious hors d’oeuvres and a lively calypso band that’ll have everyone dancing till dawn!”

Tap into the local knowledge and creativity of Sylvia Delvaille Jones to help you plan an original wedding on the splendid island. Contact her here.

New Zealand Coastline, Bay of Islands & Banks Peninsula

In addition to having fabulous lakeside locations, New Zealand’s spectacular coastline offers incredible settings for an elegant and breathtaking wedding. Our experts at Majordomo have two exquisite, unforgettable venues with jaw-dropping coastal views.

Located in the beautiful Bay of Islands, off the north coast of North Island, Eagles Nest offers a truly unique ocean side location. Whether it’s a small, intimate wedding or a larger celebration with a seated gala banquet, there are up to five luxurious villas at Eagles Nest that can be tailored perfectly for you.

Your unique wedding day will be seamlessly put together by Eagles Nest’s dedicated wedding concierge who can also assist with celebrants, photographers, live music, wedding cakes, flowers, luxury transport, catering and more.

Over on the east coast of South Island, Annandale promises an outstanding and unique venue. Located on a farm overlooking the sea on Banks Peninsula, you will enjoy privacy and seclusion with incredible views.

Annandale offers a choice of venues, from the stately elegance of the homestead which can cater weddings for up to 40 people, to a more intimate affair at Seascape in a private bay right on the sea. There is also the option of taking over the entire property. The team at Annandale can create a bespoke package for your wedding, allowing you to do as much or as little decision-making as you like.

The farm at Annandale offers outstanding backdrops for your photographer to capture too: the elegant gardens at the homestead, breathtaking views over the coast at The Point, where the sunlight sparkles on the water like countless diamonds, or the strikingly contemporary and private setting of Seascape. It’s a dream setting for your most special occasion.

Experience the most memorable days of your life by organizing your wedding in either of these sublime locations with MajorDomo here.

Masai Mara, Kenya

Adventurous couples can have a truly unique wedding at one of the most astoundingly beautiful places in Africa, Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp and Bush Villa.  Situated on the Olderikesi conservancy, bordering the Maasai Mara National Reserve and just one kilometer Tanzania Serengeti game reserve, this historic and award-winning safari camp can host small and medium-sized weddings with African spirit and originality.

“Cottars has had the pleasure of organizing many beautiful blessings for our guests – from small, simple ceremonies involving a champagne celebration at the end of a game drive, to larger three day events with over 60 guests. We have become the hottest emerging destination for blessings in the African bush!” explains Cottar’s Director Calvin Cottar.

“A stylishly simple ceremony, led by a Maasai elder, coupled with the vibrant colours of Maasai dancing and celebrations away from the crowds yet amidst the herds! This requires very little paperwork and no official certificates are supplied.

“The ‘bride’ and ‘groom’ are both adorned in traditional Maasai regalia and the entire village joins in your celebration! The traditional ceremony is complete with gourmet dinner and a mouth-watering cake of your choice.”

Guests can be accommodated in the luxurious main camp, whereas the wedding party, or just the bride and groom, can stay in their gorgeous, intimate Bush Villa. Built using indigenous and eco-friendly materials, the villa is over 10,000 square feet and has a large living room, dining room, viewing deck, and five en-suite bedrooms. It has its own private 25-meter pool, though its guests also have access to the Cottar’s 1920s Camp swimming pool, shop and other facilities.

Add a touch of wild to your wedding with Cottar’s. Reach out to them here to begin exploring your options.

Eager to slide into their ski boots, many holidayers can’t wait for the first snows. With amazing slopes in both the northern and southern hemisphere, world-class skiing can actually be enjoyed almost year round. We go in search of thrilling heli-skiing, virgin off-piste snow, family fun and glamorous retreats across the globe thanks to these great tips from our award-winning local experts.

Klosters, Switzerland

Swiss charm, fabulous skiing and jewelbox chalets, there are many reasons to love this traditional village resort, a favorite of our expert James Palmer-Tomkinson. His love for the exceptional resort has been passed down through the generations and sparked the creation of his luxury skiing holiday company PT Ski.

“In the past it was the resort of choice for Hollywood movie stars and although they have since moved on, the cache of Klosters remains,” explains James. “Visitors now prefer it for its discreet and low key ambiance, a complete contrast to the more flamboyant resorts like St Moritz and Gstaad. There are no designer shops, but its glamourous visitors love it instead for its understated chic.”

In addition to its authenticity, it also has amazing skiing. Combined with Davos, it’s one of the largest ski areas in the whole country. Avid skiers can enjoy perfectly groomed slopes and beginners can gain courage via its excellent ski schools. At the end of an invigorating day on the slopes, settle in for a cozy evening fireside at one of the town’s quaint but luxurious chalets.

Where to Stay in Klosters.

Val d’Isère, France

The French Alps have dozens of resorts, but our Alps expert Andy Castle of Ultimate Luxury Chalets adores the Val d’Isère. This former traditional farming village nestled in the Tarentaise Valley close to the Italian border, has become one of the world’s premier ski resorts.

Home to the the Espace Killy ski resort, it also incorporates the neighbouring high altitude station of Tignes, bring together over 300km of pistes, elevating to heights of over 3500m. In addition, the area’s off-piste terrain is both thrilling and easily accessible by some of its 94 ski lifts. New to these this season will be the state-of-the-art Solaise gondola, which will replace the old Solaise Express chairlift.

If your bones aren’t too weary from your physical exertion, discover some of the resort’s superb après ski bars and restaurants. On the whole, these tend to be a much better value for luxury than some of the other high end resorts of the Alps.

Where to Stay in Val d’Isère.

Wanaka, New Zealand

Situated almost in the centre of New Zealand’s South Island, Wanaka offers some of the country’s best skiing and snowboarding. It’s no wonder our experts at MajorDomo like to strap on their boots on at this incredibly stunning location. The lakeside town, abuzz with life, restaurants, bars and boutiques, acts as the gateway to the Southern Alps and gorgeous Mt Aspiring National Park.

“Wanaka is fabulous place to base your family and friends for the ultimate New Zealand extreme ski experience,’ says Lisa Hayden, co-owner of MajorDomo. “In fact it’s the largest heli-skiing area outside North America.”

In addition to being a heliski destination, it has uncrowded slopes, amazing off-piste terrain, the country’s only cross-country ski area and plenty of other activities like snowshoeing, sledding and dog sled tours. The official ski fields are made up of five resorts, two of which, Cardrona and Treble Cone, have teamed up for a joint three or five day flexi lift pass.

Alternatively, let MajorDomo help arrange arrange your heliski experiences, picking you up straight from one of their Wanaka villas with a helipad.

Where to Stay in Wanaka.

Verbier, Switzerland

Verbier is another wonderfully charming and luxurious resort in the Alps and where Marina Gratsos of Carpe Diem Luxury Travel hits the slopes. Cradled in the southwestern Swiss canton of Valais, it’s considered one of the world’s top “off-piste” resorts.

Verbier sits at 1,500m in a sunny, south-facing valley with spectacular panoramas of the surrounding summits. It’s also the largest and most popular resort of the Four Vallées ski region, connecting with other resorts including Nendaz, Veysonnaz, Thyon and La Tzoumaz. The town is filled with impressive luxury chalets. While it’s a better destination for intermediate and advanced grade skiers, it does have some beginner slopes.

Try to book your trip during one of Verbier’s many annual events like the Freeride World Tour, Xtreme Verbier, held at the end of March. The town is filled with impressive luxury chalets and an abundance of evening entertainment and dining. Gastronomes must book in at the restaurant of the Chalet d’Adrien, the town center’s only Michelin Star which offers delicious locally inspired dishes and fabulous views.

Where to Stay in Verbier.

Telluride, Colorado, U.S.A.

North America’s Rocky Mountains offer some exceptional skiing surrounded by jaw-dropping views of the snowy mountain tops. Our global expert Sylvia Delvaille Jones of Villas and Apartments Abroad takes us to Colorado’s pretty and refined resort of Telluride. Set in a tree-lined box canyon, this former Victorian mining town has retained this heritage through many buildings and other landmarks of this boom era.

Voted the best skiing in North America by Condé Nast Traveler, avid skiers won’t be disappointed with its challenging moguls, while beginners and intermediate skiers can journey up to the highest peaks for some level appropriate runs, something normally reserved for advanced skiers only. There is a free gondola connecting Telluride to the Mountain Town, the only public transportation system of its kind on the continent.

There are also a range of unique activities off the slopes such as art walks, theater performances and even professional certificate courses. There is a wide variety of dining options from stylish chalets with stunning mountain views to old fashioned saloons. The resort features some excellent luxury accommodation, including the exclusive Ski Mansion available through Villas and Apartments Abroad.

Where to Stay in Telluride.

 

Queenstown, New Zealand

On the other side of New Zealand’s Southern Alps, Queenstown is another skier’s paradise. A short 20-minute drive from this picturesque town on Lake Wakatipu, the Queenstown ski fields are spread over four resorts. There’s terrain for all abilities and styles from well-groomed runs to daring off-piste zones. For the more adventurous, heli trips can transform the Southern Alps into an endless, thrilling playground.

“Offering an abundance of sunshine, shimmering lakes, snow-capped alpine beauties, and a fantastic selection of activities and attractions, Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most popular winter destination,” outlines Jacqui Spice, founder and owner of Touch of Spice. She and her team can take care of both luxury accommodation and everything you need for the perfect skiing experiences around Queenstown.

Founded during the mid-19th century gold rush days, Queenstown has evolved into chic resort. Visitors staying in the towns sophisticated villas with outstanding views can explore the towns stylish shops and fabulous restaurants and bars.

Where to Stay in Queenstown.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Back in the European Alps, we venture to spectacular Zermatt, a personal favorite of Andy Castle of Ultimate Luxury Chalets. This picturesque and lavish resort is tucked in the upper end of the Mattertal and is encircled by some of the most awe-inspiring peaks in Europe, including the world famous Matterhorn.

“Zermatt has established itself as one of the most popular resorts in the Alps,” describes Andy. “With spectacular scenery, an outstanding snow record, phenomenal skiing, amazing luxury chalets and nightlife to match… it’s a resort that has pretty much everything you could ask for!”

As Zermatt is entirely pedestrianized, with only electric buses and taxis that connect all the main lift stations on the valley floor, it makes for a pleasant, family-friendly resort. Your days on the slopes are complemented by hearty mountain meals, horse-drawn sleigh rides, heavenly spa treatments and cozy nights in front of the fireplace at your luxury chalet overlooking the twinkling lights of town and the Matterhorn.

Where to Stay in Zermatt.

Big Sky Resort – Montana, U.S.A.

For a more offbeat skiing experience in the U.S., find your way to remote Big Sky Resort, the Basecamp to Yellowstone Park in beautiful Montana. As its name suggests, the incredible blue sky goes on forever, as do the amazing vistas of the Rocky Mountains, something which has attracted our local expert Suzy Hall of Mountain Home to the area.

The resort features cutting edge lifts, impeccably groomed slopes and nowhere near the crowds found on the more popular slopes of the U.S. – all in the shadow of its iconic, Matterhorn-like peak. Plus, there is a vast array of non-skiing activities to please the whole family from zipline tours to dog sledding and from wall climbing to sleigh rides.

On the development front, there are big plans to expand the resort in the coming decade to make it the “American Alp.” Therefore, it’s an up-and-coming resort to add to your list now!

Where to Stay near Big Sky Country.

St. Moritz, Switzerland

A roundup of favorite ski resorts wouldn’t be complete without glitzy St. Moritz, the go-to European resort of Sylvia Delvaille Jones of Villas and Apartments Abroad. A popular ski holiday destination since 1864, this picturesque Alpine village is set in one of the most breathtaking locations of Switzerland, the gorgeous Upper Engadin lakes district.

The resort has played host to the Olympics on twice and numerous international skiing competitions are held here each winter. It’s also home to some of the top luxury hotels and chalets of the Alps, attracting a jetset crowd attracting the likes of John Travolta, Robert de Niro, Robbie Williams and Liz Hurley.

Off the slopes its designer boutiques lure in prospective clients with furs and exquisite Swiss watches whereas the nights are long at its super glamorous nightclubs. It also hosts world class winter sports events such as the White Turf races held every February.

Where to Stay in St Moritz.

Craving more? Check out these other articles which will have you booking your next ski trip today!

European Chalets with the Best Views

Best Slopes in Europe for Beginners

Extreme Skiing New Zealand: The Best Places for Off-Piste, Heli-Skiing & Cat Skiing

Ultimate Luxury Ski Resorts in Europe

Best Fondue in the Alps

The ski season is just kicking off in New Zealand, one of the world’s premier snowsports destinations. But we aren’t talking about any old skiing here. We travel to Queenstown and Wanaka to soar to the top of jagged peaks for some daredevil heli-skiing, zoom down the best off-piste terrain, venture into the backcountry for some cat skiing, and end our adrenalin-fuelled days relaxing in luxury at the finest villas, chalets, and lodges in New Zealand. Read on for the best insider tips from our experts at Majordomo and Touch of Spice.

“Offering plenty of sunshine, majestic lakes, snow-capped alpine beauties, and an unrivalled selection of activities and attractions, it comes as no surprise that Queenstown, New Zealand, is as popular a winter destination as it is a summer one,” enthuses Jacqui Spice, founder and owner of Touch of Spice.

“Queenstown is nestled in the Alps close to four ski resorts and fabulous backcountry terrain,” explains Jacqui. “Typically the ski season starts on piste by mid-June with helicopter access to the Southern Alps being mid-July through to October. Touch of Spice can offer exceptional skiing and boarding on exclusive terrain with untracked, virgin snow. On and off-piste, the extensive range of activities has been designed to suit everyone’s ability and desires.

“To help you out further, Touch of Spice can offer professional in-house ski fitting when renting equipment, free chains and GPS with Thrifty car rentals for the month of August, and complimentary value-add recommendations such as spa upgrades, two-for-one offers and complimentary drinks.”

Whare kea

Accessible only by helicopter, this luxury chalet offers unparalleled accommodation and a spectacular base for those seeking the ultimate alpine adventure in an exclusive location—high in the mountains on the edge of Mt Aspiring National Park. It sleeps eight in four bedrooms with four bathrooms.

This is one of the few places in New Zealand with ski-in, ski-out mountain access, which makes for the ultimate ski experience. With striking natural beauty in every direction, your photo-posting on social media will make you the envy of all your friends. From here, you will be heli-ed onto exclusive untracked virgin snow, be taken on 10–12 runs, and then led back into the chalet for morning tea, gourmet lunch, and après-ski drinks.

You can completely tailor the chalet experience to suit your requirements, from a short day trip with a relaxing lunch and a glass of wine on the balcony to multi-night accommodation with action-packed alpine adventures. Whatever you choose, you’ll have a fantastic, once-in-a-lifetime experience in this secluded mountain paradise. Whare kea starts from NZD$2,000/night.

Kumanu

Kumanu is a faultless luxury retreat in rural Queenstown, with stunning views across the Wakatipu Basin and beyond. Being at the centre of Queenstown’s three elite ski resorts, you have the opportunity try a field each day. With the perk of huge lawn space, heli-skiing is an obvious choice.

Kumanu sleeps eight in four bedrooms with five bathrooms. Every room provides a feeling of serenity and calm yet draws you in seamlessly to the landscape. From the airy dining room with its ambient open fireplace, to the magnificent chef’s kitchen, which adjoins a cosy lounge. It is well equipped and appointed for winter with its large spa pool, ski storage, Cinema room plus indoor & outdoor fires. Kumanu starts from NZD$2,000/night.

These great chalets and skiing tips were provided by Jacqui. For more on these skiing experiences, contact her and the Touch of Spice team here.

We also spend some time heliskiing, heliboarding and cat skiing with our experts at MajorDomo.

“Queenstown and Wanaka are fabulous locations to base your family and friends for the ultimate heliski experience,’ informs Lisa Hayden, co-owner of MajorDomo. “Our villas are all located within five to 20 minutes from a helicopter pickup zone with some of the villas and lodges able to have helicopter landings on the property.

“Heliskiing or boarding packages range from group to shared excursions with two to five runs, to private charters with ‘unlimited daily vertical’. The operators and guides we deal with are very experienced with the relevant certificates, safety equipment and top-end powder ski and board equipment. The scenery and terrain is as varied as it is magnificent!”

The MajorDomo team highly recommend the experienced pilots and guides from Alpine Helicopters to provide your exclusive heliski and heliboard adventures in the New Zealand Southern Alps. Stay at the stunning Minaret Lodge and your helicopter will pick you up directly outside your chalet after your mountain kitchen breakfast. You will be the first to ski this heliski dream arena every day.

Minaret Station Alpine Lodge

Situated on 50,000 acres of Minaret Alpine Station near Wanaka, the lodge comprises four chalets and a mountain kitchen to provide you with a luxurious escape within an untouched landscape. A private hot tub on the deck your chalet, open fires, library, cosy living areas and first-class dining facilities with stunning meals prepared by gourmet chef complete a thigh-burning day in the backcountry powder bowls.

Find dynamic terrain in and around Minaret Alpine Station and lodge to suite any intermediate or expert skiers and boarders, with pristine snow covering wide open bowls, natural half-pipes and chutes. Beautiful long runs will maximize your ski time and guides are there to direct you on to the best snow in the region.

Soho Basin

If Heliskiing is not your thing, then cat skiing could be your calling. Soho Basin is a private ski area offering pristine high-country terrain, world class views and gourmet dining in an atmosphere of relaxed and understated luxury.

After reaching Soho Basin via a 60-minute drive or 10 minute helicopter transfer from Queenstown, you will access 650 acres of skiable terrain from the comfort of a heated cabin, atop a state-of-the-art snowcat. The Soho team will show you the best lines, deepest powder, steepest chutes or gentle slopes – whatever is your thing. With the number of skiers or boarders limited to 24 per day, you will be able to experience this unique area of beauty and serenity within the Southern Alps almost exclusively.

Soho is suitable for early intermediate skiing ability and above, with some great options for the more adventurous skiers or boarders. Your day, your pace, your mountain. When you are ready for a break, you’ll enjoy food and wine on the deck of Soho’s Alpine hut prepared by the chefs of the award-winning Amisfield Bistro. Self drive from Queenstown or MajorDomo can arrange luxury transport with a private driver.

MajorDomo’s villas or partner lodges in Queenstown, Arrowtown or Wanaka would provide the perfect accommodation base for your Soho Basin Private Ski Area experience.

Learn more about these ultimate skiing holidays and gain more of their fabulous local insight by reaching out to MajorDomo at this link.