What’s On in Queenstown – Winter 2023
16 June – Coronet Peak Opening
Nestled in the picturesque Southern Alps of New Zealand, Coronet Peak is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, well-groomed slopes, and adrenaline-pumping adventures.
Coronet Peak lights up for Night Ski from 4-9pm every Wednesday, Friday and select Saturday nights from June to September.
17 June – The Remarkables Opening
Known for its fantastic snow conditions, and opening day doesn’t disappoint. The ski field’s diligent snowmaking and grooming teams have worked tirelessly to ensure the slopes are in top-notch shape. The freshly groomed runs beckon enthusiasts of all skill levels, offering an array of terrain suitable for beginners and experts alike.
23 – 30 June – NZ Mountain Film & Book Festival
If you love adventure, are inspired by our culture and are seeking further education, join us in the unique celebration – the NZ Mountain Film & Book Festival.
This annual event celebrates the spirit of adventure, mountaineering, and outdoor exploration through captivating films and presentations. Held at the Memorial Hall, join as they delve into the world of adventure filmmaking, highlight noteworthy films, and share the unforgettable experiences offered by this remarkable festival.
This year’s festival has attracted 177 entries, with 58 films being selected to screen at the festival, 17 of which are NZ made. As NZ’s only adventure film competition, they are proud to be providing a platform for Kiwi creatives to showcase their talents.
Come along to the live events in Queenstown and Wanaka or enjoy the films online.
14 July – Matariki & Matariki Viewing
Matariki signals ‘Ngā Mata o te Ariki Tāwhirimātea’, the changing of the seasons and the beginning of the Māori new year. It is a time of renewal and celebration in New Zealand that begins with the rising of the Matariki star cluster.
To celebrate, Kā-Muriwai Arrowtown will host Matariki Arrowtown Lights celebrations including performances by local kapa haka school groups, light displays, and an astrophysicist sharing the wonders of the Otago night skies.
Coronet Peak will also host a Matariki star viewing at the top of Greengates chair on Broughs Lane. The event will be a celebration of the holiday with Darren Rewi and will also include an interpretation by astronomy expert, Bryan Boyle, Chair of the Winterstellar Charitable Trust. Participants need to be able to ski down from the top of Greengates in the dawn timeframe with torches/headlamps.
25 August – 3 September – Winter Pride
Join us at Winter Pride 2023 from 25 August – 3 September in Queenstown for the biggest Pride Party in the snow in the Southern Hemisphere.
Winter Pride Queenstown is an annual LGBTQ+ event that takes place in Queenstown, New Zealand during the winter season. It is a celebration of diversity, inclusion, and acceptance, and it attracts both locals and visitors from around the world.
With over 45 events across 10 days there is something for everyone. From Drag shows to dance parties, Après Ski to mountain parades, games nights to food and wine – Winter Pride is a celebration of Pride – Queenstown style!
25 August – 16 September- Winter Games
The Winter Games NZ is known as the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest snow and sports event, attracting the world’s best ski and snowboard athletes over two weeks from late August to September.
Held between Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Cardrona Alpine Resort, the competition schedule is packed with everything from high-octane alpine ski racing to thrilling free-ski and snowboard park events, to adrenaline-inducing freeride events.
The perfect time to visit and admire the national talent, and celebrate snowsports in New Zealand.