tongsa

We are beginners with kids - which one is a better option, with lessons, passes and non-skiing activities?

And, any views of staying a night at the Hermitage at Mt Cook?

Thanks all.

peterSale

The Remarkables are a good Ski field with a mix of levels.

New Zealand tendsnot to have "Resorts/Accommodation" at the ski fields. You stay in towns nearby and go to the ski field for the day. The remarkablesare close to Queenstown, which has tonnes to do.

Know nothing about your other topics.

Melnq8

Hi tongsa -

Info regarding QT ski areas is outlined in detail here, including drive distances, difficulty levels, activities for kids, etc:

http://www.queenstown-nz.co.nz/information/winter/

There's absolutely loads to do in/around QT.

The drive from QT to Mt Cook is 263 km, about 3:45. I'm not a huge fan of the Hermitage, but there are only two other places to stay at Mt Cook, details here:

http://www.mtcooknz.com/mackenzie/Mount_Cook/

There are several accommodation options near Lake Pukaki and Twizel, which are about 35-40 minutes drive from Mt Cook.

tongsa

Thanks so much. Finished with all that, and now back to the grind!

We did the Remarks which is great for beginner to intermediate, and Coronet Peak. Didn't make it to Cardrona as the slopes were closed the day we were supposed to go.

Had great weather (barring two days) and great snow! Loved it. Stayed near Lake Hayes and enjoyed the scenery and nature walks. Did Arrowtown including the famous bakery, Wanaka and Glenorchy. Great eating options too, perhaps touristy but sumptuous meals after a full day of skiing - Winnies Pizzas, Sombrero, Fergburger, Speight's Alehouse, Skyline at the Gondola, Patagonia brownies, Hamill's at the Remarks park.

Oh, and we rented a car from Budget and got some reasonable discounts for skiing at the Remarks and Coronet.

At CHC, recommend Liquidity!

Never made it to Mount Cook - younger child broke her arm skiing so ended up spending time at the hospital and flew down to Christchurch. On that note, came away really impressed with the hospital services, doctors, quality of nursing care (dedication and involvement) - so despite a not-so-happy ending to the holiday, we just have happy memories of a rather idyllic break!

Melnq8

Thanks for reporting back tongsa. Bummer about the broken arm though.