Photo: Jocey K / CC BY-SA 2.0
Treble Cone is a world-class ski area on the South Island's West Coast, near Wanaka, known for its epic terrain, long runs, and stunning views over Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. It's a must for advanced skiers and snowboarders, but beginners will find dedicated areas too.
Highlights & What to See
- Skiing & Snowboarding: Carve down wide-open bowls, steep chutes, and groomed cruisers – the longest vertical drop in the South Island (700m).
- Scenic Chairlift Rides: Take the Summit Chair to 1960m for panoramic views of Mount Aspiring National Park and the Tasman Sea.
- Backcountry Access: Explore off-piste terrain like the Motatapu Chutes and the Saddle Basin – hire a guide for the best lines.
- Snow Play & Tubing: Non-skiers can enjoy the tubing park at the base area.
- On-Mountain Dining: Refuel at the Summit Café with mountain-view deck seating – try the venison pie.
Suggested Time to Spend
Devote a full day to make the most of the varied terrain. Arrive early to grab parking and first tracks. If you're a keen powder hound, plan for two days to explore different aspects. The ski season runs from late June to October – check snow conditions before you go.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Wanaka: Base yourself in this lakeside town, just 30 minutes' drive – great cafes, shops, and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
- Cardrona Alpine Resort: Another top ski field 40 minutes away – family-friendly with diverse terrain.
- Mount Aspiring National Park: In summer, hike the Rob Roy Glacier Track or the Isthmus Peak Track for epic views.
- Lake Wanaka Cruises: Take a scenic boat ride to Mou Waho Island or enjoy a wine tour on the lake.
- Haast Pass: Drive the scenic route to the West Coast glaciers – combine with a trip to Fox and Franz Josef.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Fox Glacier — CC BY-SA 3.0
- Franz Josef Glacier — Jörg Hempel / CC BY-SA 3.0 de
- Lake Wanaka — Hagai Agmon-Snir حچاي اچمون-سنير חגי אגמון-שניר / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Wanaka — Hagai Agmon-Snir حچاي اچمون-سنير חגי אגמון-שניר / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Cardrona Alpine Resort — Photograph by Greg O'Beirne / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Mount Aspiring National Park — en:user:Psychoticfish / Public domain
- Haast Pass — Pavel Špindler / CC BY 3.0