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    QueenstownCardronaNew Zealand

    Cardrona Expands with New 6-Seater Chairlift and T-Bar

    Michael FultonMichael Fulton·10 Apr 2025

    TL;DR

    Cardrona Alpine Resort is set to enhance its offerings with a new 6-seater detachable chairlift in Soho Basin and a T-bar for the terrain park, both scheduled to open for the 2025 winter season.

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    Cardrona Upgrades Lift Infrastructure for 2025 Season

    Cardrona Alpine Resort is gearing up for a significant upgrade to its lift infrastructure. The resort has announced plans to install a new 6-seater detachable chairlift and a T-bar, both set to be operational for the 2025 winter season. These additions aim to improve access and enhance the skiing and riding experience across different areas of the mountain.

    Cardrona development update: Milestone Day with Black Hawk Heli

    The new 6-seater detachable chairlift, manufactured by Doppelmayr, will be installed in the Soho Basin area. This location, situated just behind the top of McDougall's Chondola and Captain's Express, will primarily benefit intermediate to advanced skiers and riders. The increased capacity and speed of this lift will allow for more efficient movement of guests in this popular section of the resort.

    In addition to the chairlift, Cardrona is also focusing on improving its terrain park offerings. A new T-bar lift will be constructed between the Big Bucks and Lil' Bucks areas, specifically designed to service the terrain park. This dedicated lift will provide easier access for freestyle skiers and snowboarders, while also helping to reduce congestion on other lifts across the mountain.

    The new Soho Basin zone at Cardrona.
    The new Soho Basin zone at Cardrona. Credit: Cardrona Alpine Resort

    These lift upgrades are part of Cardrona's ongoing efforts to enhance its facilities and maintain its position as one of New Zealand's premier ski resorts. With 615 hectares of skiable terrain, Cardrona caters to a wide range of skill levels, from beginners to professional athletes.

    Cardrona Alpine Resort is known for its varied terrain, which includes wide-open slopes, numerous groomed runs, and expansive alpine views. The resort is particularly famous for hosting the most extensive terrain park in the Southern Hemisphere, making it a popular destination for freestyle skiing and snowboarding. With these new lift additions, Cardrona aims to further improve the experience for all visitors, whether they're hitting the park features or exploring the mountain's diverse terrain.

    About the author

    Michael Fulton

    Michael Fulton

    Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.

    50+ resorts visited15 years skiing

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