Queenstown is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with its stunning scenery and world-class ski resorts. But what can visitors expect from the weather and snow conditions in winter 2023?
Snow forecast
According to Weather25.com, Queenstown will have only one day with snow in June 2023, with a total of 0.63 inches of snow. The rest of the month will be mostly sunny and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 1°C to 9°C.
The snow outlook for July and August 2023 is not available yet, but based on historical data, these are usually the coldest and snowiest months in Queenstown. The average snow depth at Coronet Peak ski area in July is about 30 inches, and in August it is about 40 inches.
However, winter 2023 may be affected by two climate phenomena that could reduce the snowfall in the Australian alps: El Niño and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD). These conditions tend to bring warmer and drier weather to southeastern Australia and New Zealand, which could limit the cold fronts and moisture that produce snow.
Ski resorts
Despite the uncertain snow outlook, Queenstown’s ski resorts are preparing for another busy winter season. The four main ski areas near Queenstown are Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Cardrona and Treble Cone. They offer a variety of terrain, facilities and activities for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Coronet Peak is the closest ski area to Queenstown, only 25 minutes away by car. It has a modern lift system, night skiing, a terrain park and a tubing park. It is scheduled to open on June 10 and close on October 1.
The Remarkables is another ski area within easy reach of Queenstown, about 45 minutes away by car. It has three sunny basins, a learner’s area, a terrain park and a tubing park. It is scheduled to open on June 17 and close on October 8.
Cardrona is a family-friendly ski area located between Queenstown and Wanaka, about an hour away by car from either town. It has wide open slopes, four terrain parks, a halfpipe and a tubing park. It is scheduled to open on June 10 and close on October 15.
Treble Cone is the largest ski area in the South Island, with stunning views of Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring. It has challenging terrain for advanced skiers and snowboarders, as well as groomed runs and a learner’s area. It is scheduled to open on June 22 and close on October 1.
| Ski area | Opening date | Closing date | Distance from Queenstown |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coronet Peak | June 10 | October 1 | 25 minutes |
| The Remarkables | June 17 | October 8 | 45 minutes |
| Cardrona | June 10 | October 15 | 60 minutes |
| Treble Cone | June 22 | October 1 | 90 minutes |
Winter driving tips
If you are planning to drive to Queenstown or around the region in winter, you should be prepared for icy roads and changing weather conditions. Here are some simple tips from Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency to stay safe:
- Make sure your vehicle is warranted and safe.
- Turn your headlights on during the day.
- Allow for greater braking distances and avoid sudden braking.
- Carry snow chains and know how to fit them.
- Check the road conditions before you travel.
- Delay your travel if the weather is poor.
Conclusion
Queenstown is a great place to enjoy winter sports and activities, but it also requires some planning and caution. The weather and snow outlook for winter 2023 is uncertain due to possible El Niño and positive IOD effects, so it is advisable to check the latest forecasts before you book your trip or hit the slopes. The ski resorts near Queenstown offer something for everyone, but they also depend on natural and artificial snow to operate. Driving in winter can be challenging, so you should follow some simple tips to stay safe on the road.
