New Zealand’s winter alpine landscapes are world-famous for their outstanding natural beauty and the high-octane adventures they offer. With ski fields spread across both the North and South islands, the country transforms into a hub for skiers, snowboarders and holidaymakers looking for a memorable snow experience between mid-June and early October.
While, in theory, there are various ways to reach the mountains, hiring a car is the most practical, particularly for tourists from overseas. Of course, they do come at an extra cost. But this post will highlight why paying to do so is the best way to visit New Zealand’s snowy mountains.
Ski Car Rental
New Zealand’s alpine roads can be challenging to navigate, especially the unsealed Treble Cone route. So, if you do intend to hire a car, it is a good idea to hire a 4wd or AWD such as a Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, or even a station wagon.
Typically, these vehicles have a deeper or more rugged tread pattern, which provides you with a little more traction on snowy or icy roads.
There are several rental companies that offer these vehicles, including ski car rental with GO Rentals.
Whichever vehicle you choose to hire, make sure they are well-equipped for mountain conditions and provides essential add-ons such as snow chains and ski racks.
Why you should hire a car
While you can take the bus to visit New Zealand’s Snowy Mountains, here are some of the main reasons why we recommend you hire a vehicle.
1. Flexibility to Travel at Your Own Pace
One of the main advantages of hiring a car for your snow holiday is the freedom it provides you with. Regardless of whether you’re heading to Coronet Peak, Mt Hutt or Whakapapa, you’ll be able to navigate your way easily without being tied to the fixed schedules of public transport.
As you will have the ability to set your own pace, this will enable you to depart early to catch the first lift or take a relaxed approach and start your day at your convenience, as you see fit.
2. More Room for Ski Gear (and Snacks)
Travelling with ski or snowboard gear can be challenging on a bus. Particularly because bulky items like boots, poles and winter clothing take up significant space, and public transport doesn’t always offer the flexibility or room needed to manage them comfortably.
However, ski rental vehicles are designed with winter travellers in mind, so they typically offer more boot space and roof racks, which enable you to store your equipment safely and securely.
3. Easier Access to Off-the-Beaten-Track Ski Fields
While resorts such as Cardrona and The Remarkables are popular for good reason, New Zealand is also home to many smaller, less commercialised ski areas that are well worth exploring. These include Mt Dobson, Rainbow Ski Area, and Tukino, all of which are destinations that are sometimes overlooked by larger tour operators and shuttle services.
If you hire your own rental vehicle, you will be able to head off the beaten track, discover quieter slopes, and enjoy a more personalised snow experience.
4. Better Accommodation Options
Staying on-mountain at ski resorts can be convenient as it will enable you to hit the slopes quickly whenever you feel like it. However, doing this usually comes at a premium.
By hiring a car, you’re not restricted to accommodation directly next to the ski fields. Instead, you can consider a wider range of options, which can include anything from lakeside cottages and holiday parks to motels in nearby towns. Many of them might even offer you better value for money.
5. More Confidence Driving in Winter Road Conditions
As you can imagine, driving in New Zealand during the winter months does come with its fair share of challenges, particularly in alpine regions. Icy roads, sudden weather changes and snowfall are all par for the course, which is why it’s important to hire a vehicle that is properly prepared for the conditions.
When you book a hire car, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that the car is up to the challenge of navigating New Zealand’s wintery terrain. You will also be able to drive with the understanding that the vehicle has been well-maintained.
6. Make Roadside Stops
Some of the most memorable parts of a winter trip to New Zealand aren’t found on the slopes, but actually on the scenic drives in between. With a hire car, you’ll be free to stop at lookouts, snap photos of snow-covered landscapes, or visit towns and attractions that aren’t on the typical tourist route.
You can also enjoy experiences like sipping on a delicious hot chocolate in Lake Tekapo, enjoying a soak in Hanmer Springs, or taking a short walk through a frost-covered forest. These moments add something special to your journey and would otherwise be missed if you did not have access to a car.
7. Combine Skiing with Other Winter Experiences
New Zealand’s snow season coincides with several other winter activities, including stargazing in Tekapo, wine tasting in Central Otago, and soaking in natural thermal pools in Rotorua.
Having your own transport allows you to combine skiing with broader sightseeing opportunities, which helps you make the most of the time you have available on your winter getaway.
Final Thoughts
If you are visiting New Zealand for the snow season, hiring a car is a sensible decision to make. Not only does it offer you a safe and convenient mode of transportation, but it also provides you with greater control over your schedule and the ability to access a wider range of ski fields.
It doesn’t matter if you are coming from Sydney, London or Los Angeles, picking up a snow-ready rental car will help to make your trip a memorable one. New Zealand is a wonderful country, whose attractions go far beyond its slopes. So, the more you can try to see of it, the better. Who knows, it might even convince you to move here.