300 days ago

NZ ski town face-off: And the winner is...

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Otago News

Stuff has been on the hunt for New Zealand’s best ski town and, after a week of pitting some of the country’s best-loved spots against each other, the results are in: Wānaka is our favourite by far.

Of the seven shortlisted towns announced on Monday, Queenstown’s quieter little sister secured 31% of reader votes, putting it well ahead of second placeholders Methven, at the base of Mt Hutt, and carrot capital Ohakune, each of which landed 18% of votes.

The photogenic old gold rush town of Arrowtown came third with 13% of votes, while fourth place was shared by Mackenzie alpine village Lake Ohau and Canterbury hot pool haven Hanmer Springs, which each claimed 9% of votes.

Just 2% of readers voted for Tūrangi in the Ruapehu region.

Queenstown, Albert Town, Saint Arnaud, Raetihi, National Park Village, Springfield and Tekapo were all eliminated in the semi-finals.

About an hour’s drive from Queenstown Airport via the super-scenic Crown Range Road or 90 minutes via the easier-going Kawarau Gorge, Wānaka is within easy driving distance of four ski fields.

With its mountain-hugged, glacier-carved lake, the Central Otago town has all the visual appeal of nearby Queenstown with smaller crowds. It’s far from a sleepy hollow, however, with adventure activities galore, and plenty of top spots to eat and drink.

NZ ski town face-off winners
Wānaka
Methven and Ohakune
Arrowtown
Lake Ohau and Hanmer Springs
Tūrangi

Is Wānaka New Zealand’s best ski town? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Got a great recipe for grapefruit? Share it and win a copy of our magazine!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Hello neighbours, we're looking for delicious grapefruit recipes to feature in NZ Gardener's July issue. Send your family's favourite ways to use this citrus fruit to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz by Junel 30, 2024. Every published recipe wins a copy of the July issue of NZ Gardener.

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1 day ago

Stand together in tough times

Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support

There's strength in community, especially when times are hard. Victim Support is here to ensure that nobody faces the aftermath of crime, suicide or traumatic events alone. But we need you! Bring your unique life experiences to the table and join us in meaningful work that changes lives.

By volunteering with us, you can make a real difference, helping victims stay informed, safe, and empowered. Volunteer today and do good in the dark times.

With heartfelt thanks,
The Victim Support Team
Find out more

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6 days ago

Poll: What is the smallest size hearing device Triton Hearing offer?

Triton Hearing

Some kiwis think hearing devices are big and ugly.

What if we told you technology has advanced substantially and they’re available in all shapes, colours, and sizes?

Go in the draw to win* a $40 MTA voucher when you share your answer to the
question below. Give it a go!

*T&C’s apply – must be over 18.
Find out more

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What is the smallest size hearing device Triton Hearing offer?
  • 88.3% a) The size of a pea
    88.3% Complete
  • 4.5% b) The size of a AAA battery
    4.5% Complete
  • 7.2% c) The size of a $2 coin
    7.2% Complete
513 votes