Queenstown is the ultimate destination for a winter gap year. Many people travel here for a week or two and wind up staying for years. Queenstown is a welcoming, friendly place that you can't help falling in love with. Everything is within walking distance in town and there is an abundance of public walkways, cycle-ways and tracks to explore. The town buzzes in the daytime with tourists and goes off at night with a huge number of bars and music venues. To rest your weary legs, sit by an open fire and recap the powder days.

Ski and Snowboard Instructor Training Courses

EA Ski and Snowboard Training offers ski and snowboard training courses in Queenstown. Training is primarily based at Coronet Peak, with access to The Remarkables ski field for select training days and personal riding on days off.

The training program includes progression toward internationally recognised qualifications, with Level 1 training on the standard course and additional Level 2 training, first aid, and avalanche safety components on the extended program. Full details of inclusions are listed above.

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What else can you do in Queenstown & Local Areas?

1. Explore the 4 World-Class Ski Fields

You will find Coronet Peak, The Remarkables Ski Area, Cardrona Alpine Resort & Treble Cone Ski Area all within a 30-90 minute drive from the town centre.

Coronet Peak is the only ski area in New Zealand with night skiing. Not only is night ski a fun experience, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to meet and mingle with the locals, who love to hit the slopes under the spotlights after their day at work.

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2. Discover the Queenstown Nightlife

Hang up your skis for the day and head to the waterfront to check out Queenstown's nightlife. Choose from stylish bars, sophisticated clubs, kiwi pubs, and craft beer bars. Queenstown’s après-ski atmosphere is second to none.

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3. Go Sightseeing & Exploring Around The Alpine Landscapes

• Biking and walking are still possible in winter. There may be snow on the mountain peaks, but the valley floor stays snow-free for most of winter. Some trails can be muddy and unstable at this time of year, so check the conditions before you go. Check out our guides to cycling and hiking, which include seasonal suggestions for trails.
• Head to Arrowtown, Gibbston, Glenorchy or Kingston for some sightseeing & exploring. We’re also the gateway to Fiordland, one of the Southern Hemisphere’s great wilderness regions with World Heritage Status.
• Discover local history & stories by exploring winter activities in Arrowtown at the Lakes District Museum, try gold panning, or take a heritage tour to learn about Queenstown’s rich history along the way.
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4. Relaxation & Wellness

• Visit the local hot pools amid awe-inspiring natural beauty. You can literally soak in a hot tub and stare out at the snowy mountains and ranges. It's stunning!
• If you’re more of an active relaxer, Queenstown yoga studios are the perfect place to stretch and recharge.
• A bit sore and muscles a bit tight from all that skiing or snowboarding? Queenstown offers massages and relaxing treatments in serene settings! Zen!
• Literally find a nice spot to sit and admire the surroundings by Lake Wakatipu. The surrounding views are absolutely stunning & energizing!
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5. Try the Food & Local Cuisine

When it comes to eating out, Queenstown’s award-winning cafés and restaurants pack a delicious bite. Queenstown is home to a huge range of different restaurants with everything from fine dining to takeaway burger joints.
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6. Get an Adrenaline Fix

If you’re wanting an adrenaline fix, Queenstown is the place to be. Many adrenaline activities were actually first invented here. Today, many of Queenstown’s famous adventures are pushing new boundaries by giving back to people and place. Check out this guide to adrenaline adventures to plan your winter fix of fun.
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7. Connect with the Locals at Queenstown & Other Local Events

Queenstown's winter calendar is packed full of events that showcase the best of our place, from art installations to music festivals on the slopes. Celebrate culture, connect with locals and fuel your appetite for adventure. Queenstown winter event highlights include:

• Winter Games: The biggest snow sports event in the Southern Hemisphere, held from late August to early September.
• Snow Machine: Skiing, music, accommodation and adventure. Four days of après events at The Remarkables, Coronet Peak and in Queenstown in September.‍
• Winter Pride: The Southern Hemisphere’s biggest pride festival, held from late August to early September.