Getting here guide

Don't worry, we got you

Whether you’re driving or jumping on the Ski Bus, getting to Remarks is no hassle. Plan ahead, check the conditions, and you’ll be on the mountain in no time. We’ve pulled together some of our team's top tips to ensure your trip up Kawarau Maunga is seamless.

How to get to The Remarkables

Planning ahead

The Remarkables are just 24km from central Queenstown, and getting here is easy. The Remarkables Ski Bus is the easiest way to get up the mountain, otherwise you can drive up and park (limited spots), or get a ride.

We’re on a journey to become carbon neutral by 2030, and cutting down the number of vehicles on our road is part of that. Carpool where you can or take the Ski Bus, it’s an easy way to help protect the mountain while getting up here stress-free.

Top Tip: Check the Snow Report before heading up for the most up to date conditions. Updated daily from 6:30am.

Snow Report

Weather Updates

Your best source for Mountain conditions

winter access

Easy access. Winter ready.

To keep things moving on busy days, we adjust access when needed to get everyone on snow faster. On busy days, Carpool Priority may be in place and will be confirmed on the Snow Report the day before. Check conditions early and plan ahead for the smoothest trip up the mountain.

Ski resort with snow-covered mountains, chairlifts, parking lot, and clear blue sky.
Ski resort with snow-covered mountains, chairlifts, parking lot, and clear blue sky.

Catching the ski bus

An easy way to start your snow day

Our comfortable Ski Buses make getting to The Remarkables or Coronet Peak easy. Leave the driving to us and arrive at the base area charged for an epic day.

We operate a daily return service from Queenstown to The Remarkables. Bookings required.

Reserve Your Seat: All passengers must book a departure time, pickup location and mountain destination when purchasing a Ski Bus pass. Capacity is limited, and popular services can sell out during peak periods, so booking early is strongly recommended.

Top Tip: Book early. Ski Bus seats sell out fast during peak season.

Driving up

The easiest way to start.

The Remarkables Road is sealed for the first 10km, with the final section unsealed. Conditions can change quickly in winter, so drive to the conditions, keep two-way access clear, and carry snow chains at all times. A little planning goes a long way to a smooth trip up the mountain.

Before you head up:

  • Carry snow chains: chains are mandatory (make sure you know how to fit them)
  • Check the Snow Report: updated throughout the day with road conditions and carpark availability

Free Parking

When you arrive:

  • Carparks: The Remarkables has five carparks on the access road. Carparks 1 - 3 are within walking distance of the base building.
  • Free Shuttle: Depending on capacity for the day we operate a free carpark shuttle service from carparks 1 - 5 to the base area. Check our daily Snow Report for details on what carparks are serviced by the shuttle.
  • Drop zone: Unload passengers and gear at the drop zone outside the base building, before securing a park. Then walk back up or hop on the free shuttle.
  • During peak times we'll operate our Carpool Priority days - keep an eye out for these on our Snow Report.

Bottom of the mountain:

  • There is also a large carpark at the bottom of the access road where you can catch the Ski Bus (advance bookings required).
  • Please note, there is no free shuttle from the carpark at the bottom of the access road.
  • Ride share: Carpool where you can to reduce emissions and help keep access flowing.

When you leave:

  • All vehicles must turn left when exiting the access road. Heading to Frankton or Queenstown? Use the roundabout 1km down. It’s a quick detour that keeps traffic moving.
White Coronet Peak ski bus parked beside a modern base building with snowy mountains in the background.
Snow-covered parking lot with several SUVs parked against a mountainous backdrop on a clear day.

Premium Parking

Hassle-free Mountain Access

Make your mountain mission even smoother with Premium Parking at The Remarkables.

This season, 14 exclusive parking spaces are available on top of the new maintenance building, giving you a reserved spot for the day and one less thing to think about before you hit the slopes.

Premium Parking is available for $60 per vehicle, per day and can be booked online in advance. Just choose your date, select your parking space, enter your licence plate, and you’re set.

Queenstown Ski Bus Map

The Remarkables Ski Bus is the easiest way up the mountain. Skip the drive, bring your gear, and get dropped right at the base area. Seats are limited on busy days, so booking ahead is recommended.

Remarkables Carpark Map

Driving up? Check out our carpark map to know where you're headed and what to expect for your epic ski day.

Chain Bay Map

Some days, snow chains are required when driving on our access road. Be sure to check the morning snow report before you travel to see if chains are needed. If it's a chain day, check out our Chain Bay Map to find the closest bay, where you can safely pull over and fit your chains before continuing your journey.

Want a broader view?

Check out the full Map

summer Queenstown bus hire

Planning ahead

We offer charter transport options for events of all types, including weddings, corporate functions, private parties, and group travel to remote locations.

Our fleet includes four-wheel drive buses for challenging terrain, as well as two-wheel drive coaches for sealed roads. Vehicles range in size from 22 to 57 seats, and we can transport groups of up to 500 people. All vehicles are operated by experienced drivers with strong local knowledge.

To request a charter bus quote, complete the online form with as much detail as possible. Our team will review your requirements and provide pricing and availability based on your travel needs.

Woman stepping off a white Coronet Peak bus on a sunny day with mountains in the background.

faqs

Can I drive any vehicle up The Remarkables access road?

All vehicles are permitted to access The Remarkables and 4WD vehicles are not required. However, depending on your vehicle, you may need to fit snow chains, and there can be restrictions on 2WD vehicles & high-sided vehicles such as campervans during inclement weather.

If you're travelling in a rental vehicle, we recommend checking with your rental company before your visit, as driving on alpine roads or using snow chains is not always covered.

For the latest road conditions and updates, check the Snow Report, which is updated daily by 6:30am.

Does The Remarkables have drop off zones?

Yes. Drop zones are areas right at the main mountain building where you can drop your family and snow gear off before you park your car. Remember this is just a drop zone, so be ready to all depart once arrived.

Drive with extra caution in these areas as there are many kids, vehicles reversing and gear.

Do I need snow chains?

Snow chains should always be carried during winter. Alpine weather can change quickly, and chains may become mandatory during snowfall or icy conditions. Check our Snow Report for the road conditions before heading up for the day so you know what to expect.

How can I find updates about The Remarkables access road?

To find out about daily updates on the road conditions, car park availability and whether snow chains are required, check out the snow report on our website.

How far is The Remarkables from Queenstown?

The Remarkables is a 24km drive from central Queenstown. You can drive yourself up or jump on the Queenstown Ski Bus & leave the logistics to us, just sit back & enjoy the sweeping views as you make your way up.

How often is The Remarkables snow report updated?

The snow report is posted daily throughout the ski season and is regularly updated throughout the day with the latest lift status, snowfall, weather and road conditions.

How to catch the Ski Bus

Be at your booked Ski Bus pickup point on time. If you’re late, the bus won’t wait.

Buses may arrive within 30 minutes of the scheduled time due to earlier stops.‍

When you’re at your booked stop, signal clearly to any passing Ski Bus. Some buses may be full or on a different route, but your booked bus will stop if you’re at the correct location, on the correct side of the road, and at the right time.‍

Booked through a third party? Double-check your pickup location, time, date, and mountain before heading out.‍

Return trips are valid same day only. Buses depart The Remarkables from 1:30pm onwards on a first-come, first-served basis.‍

Need to change your booking? You can reschedule before your departure time online.

Where do I fit snow chains if they are needed?

Our road crew will be located at the point on the access road where you'll need to fit snow chains to your vehicle. Please ensure you pull over to the side of the road before putting on your chains. If you need a hand to get them on, just ask one of our crew.