Just a couple of months ago we were all wondering whether summer would ever end, as record high temperatures kept short sleeves on across the country.
Then, all of a sudden, in a baffling weather event, a cold snap came and winter was on faster than we could break out the flanny pj’s.
It bucketed down with a cold front blowing up from Antarctica, turning rain into snow and making parts of Victoria resemble a winter wonderland.
Just like that one of the most promising ski seasons in years was launched.
Thredbo recorded the lowest daily maximum temperature anywhere in Australia for six years (-6C), and Perisher received 15cm of snow in 24 hours. By the weekend the mountains were snow-capped after another 20-70-centimetre dump. Clear skies and freezing night time temperatures made for perfect skiing conditions.
Ski bunnies rejoiced!
Whether your favourite Australian Alpine region is Falls Creek, Mt Hotham, Perisher or Thredbo, it looks like you’re in for a treat with plenty of opportunity to carve up the powder. But if you still haven’t had enough by the end of the season, here’s where to go next.
Queenstown NZ
Skiing & Snowboarding
New Zealand’s major centre for adventure tourism, Queenstown is famous for its snow sports, attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world.
Choose from four mountains – Cardrona Alpine Resort, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Treble Cone – all easily accessed from the centre of town, with reliable mountain transport options and ski packages and rental. It’s family friendly, caters to all levels and abilities, and delivers good value for a ski holiday.
Sightseeing
Exploring the surrounding regions of Queenstown will reveal some of the most beautiful places you will ever see.
As a World-class wine-producing region, there are over 200 vineyards in Central Otago and Gibbston Valley. Although the area produces a wide range of wine varieties, it is most renowned for its Pinot Noir.
Take a road trip around the Southern Lakes area and visit small towns, rich in pioneering history. The most popular towns to visit include Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Kingston, Fiordland and Wanaka.
Nature lovers are mad for Queenstown’s stunning hiking trails, where they can discover the unique geography, flora and fauna. From short scenic walks to the iconic Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks, Queenstown has walking tracks and trails to suit all levels of fitness.
Activities
Stunning scenery provides the perfect backdrop for the adventure playground that is Queenstown NZ.
With blood pumping, adrenaline activities for every thrill seeker, it’s got a plethora of heart stopping action. Try bungy jumping, white-water rafting, river surfing, canyon swinging and jet boating.
For those that prefer to take it easy or seek family entertainment, Queenstown has everything from cinemas to playgrounds, swimming pools and water rafting, as well as boat cruises and pampering spas.
And that’s just the beginning. Queenstown’s stunning landscape is the inspiration for artists and craftspeople, so galleries and artisan markets add art and culture. It’s also the perfect place for a golfing holiday with six scenic golf courses within 25 minutes of the centre of Queenstown.
Best time to travel: all year round
Snow season: June to September/October
Where to stay: Crowne Plaza Queenstown is perfectly located just minutes from the Queenstown town centre, walking distance to shops, bars and restaurants. Guestrooms even have private balconies to take in the picturesque views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range.
Park, Stay & Go at Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport
Enjoy the convenience and value of our Park, Stay & Go hotel package, and get your skiing holiday off to a flying start at Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport.
- Overnight accommodation for up to two adults and two children
- up to 4 days onsite car parking
- Complimentary airport shuttle service
- Kids stay and eat free
