Treble Cone

Treble Cone is Wanaka’s premier ski and snowboard area, renowned for its epic terrain, stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps, and uncrowded slopes. This mountain offers a true Kiwi alpine experience with a mix of wide-open bowls, challenging chutes, and groomed cruisers that appeal to intermediate and advanced riders. The scenery alone is worth the drive up the winding gravel road.

Highlights & What to See

• Ski & Snowboard Terrain: Treble Cone is famous for its long, steep runs and vast off-piste areas. The Motatapu Chutes and Saddle Basin provide some of the best advanced skiing in New Zealand.
• Scenic Chairlift Rides: The Summit Chair offers jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and Lake Wanaka — a must for photographers even if you’re not skiing.
• Snow Quality: Thanks to its high altitude (up to 2,088 m), the snow here is often drier and lighter than lower resorts, with a long season from June to October.
• Backcountry Access: For experienced skiers, Treble Cone is a gateway to epic backcountry tours, including the Motatapu Valley and the Harris Mountains.
• Après-Ski at the Base: The café and bar serve hearty meals and hot drinks with a view, perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors dedicate a full day to skiing or snowboarding at Treble Cone. If you’re a keen skier, two days allow you to explore both the main face and the Motatapu Chutes. The resort opens early (around 9 am) and closes at 4 pm, so arrive early to secure parking and make the most of the daylight. In summer, the area is accessible for hiking and mountain biking, but the main attraction remains winter sports.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka Town: Just 30 minutes down the road, Wanaka offers a bustling lakefront with cafés, restaurants, and the famous Wanaka Tree photo spot.
• Roys Peak: A challenging but rewarding day hike with panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains — best done in summer or as a snow-free shoulder season trek.
• Cardrona Alpine Resort: Another excellent ski field nearby, known for its family-friendly slopes and terrain parks, perfect for a change of pace.
• Mount Aspiring National Park: A haven for trampers and climbers, with trails like the Rob Roy Glacier Track offering incredible glacial views.
• Glendhu Bay: A peaceful spot on the lake’s edge, ideal for a picnic or a gentle walk, with stunning reflections of the mountains.

Please check official sources for current details.