The Remarkables could become New Zealand’s largest ski area under a proposed expansion that would add hundreds of hectares of new terrain (262 hectares to be exact) and create a new side to the mountain.
NZSki has lodged an application for a proposed expansion into the Doolans Basin, located adjacent to the existing ski area near Queenstown. If approved, the project would increase The Remarkables from 449 hectares to 711 hectares, overtaking Cardrona Alpine Resort as the country’s largest ski area.
The proposal includes 262 hectares of additional skiable terrain, designed to provide more space for skiers and snowboarders across all ability levels
A key feature of the proposal is a new 2.7-kilometre, 10-seat gondola linking the Doolans Basin with the existing base area. If built, it would become the longest gondola in New Zealand.
The Doolan’s Basin offers several natural advantages for winter operations. The terrain sits at a higher elevation than much of the current ski area and faces south-east, helping retain snow for longer periods and hopefully providing more reliable conditions throughout the season.
The project represents one of the largest proposed ski area developments in New Zealand in recent years and follows several years of planning and consultation work.
At this stage, the proposal remains subject to regulatory approvals before any construction can begin
If approved, the expansion would significantly reshape the future of skiing and snowboarding in Queenstown and further strengthen The Remarkables’ position as one of New Zealand’s premier ski destinations.