Ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventure sports, the New Zealand Winter Games in Queenstown and Wanaka give one a chance to experience the region’s breathtaking natural scenery. Also known as the 100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games, this annual event which was inaugurated in 2009, has also taken place in such destinations as Dunedin, Methven and Naseby.

The games attract a wide range of competitors and professionals looking to test the limits of their skill and endurance while they go up against the scenic and challenging snow covered environs of New Zealand. This popular event is also the first one of its kind to have incorporated adaptive skiing into such main events as the Slalom and the Super G.
 
The impressive line-up of events one can witness at the winter games includes the Giant Slalom which sees skiers manoeuvring through 70 poles, the Slalom which offers tough technical challenges and the thrilling Super G which takes competitors along an exhilarating downhill course. Combining skiing prowess with a variety of aerial tricks, such events as Free Ski Slopestyle, Freeski Big Air and Ski Cross offer spectators a chance to see gravity defying acrobatics on skis.

Other competitions here include adaptive snowboard cross world cup, cross-country skiing, curling, figure skating, ice hockey and speed skating. Apart from the sporting competitions, the New Zealand Winter Games also hosts several other events including a variety of concerts, parties and not forgetting the grand opening and closing ceremonies.
 
A great base for those planning a skiing holiday, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is within easy reach of such popular ski areas as Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.