CARDRONA 2024: Arcadia Basin to Captain' Cafe chairlift (Captain's Express Quad) - Amateur snowboard

This video is from the end of the season in September 2024. Apparently it was a really good end of season, we had a few centimeters overnight in a few of the days while we were there, with one blustery snow storm on one of our 6 days. You are viewing me, this is the second time I have ever snowboarded. :)
Visiting Cardrona, located in New Zealand's South Island, is a fantastic experience for several reasons:
1. World-Class Skiing and Snowboarding
Cardrona is one of New Zealand's premier alpine resorts, known for its extensive ski areas and well-maintained slopes. It caters to all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders. The resort also has world-class terrain parks and is a hub for freestyle skiers and snowboarders.
2. Stunning Alpine Scenery
The region offers breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and the nearby Lake Wanaka. Whether you're hitting the slopes or exploring hiking trails in summer, the scenery is a highlight, with rugged mountains, wide-open valleys, and beautiful alpine landscapes.
3. Year-Round Activities
Winter: In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Cardrona offers snow tubing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Summer: Cardrona turns into an adventure hub with mountain biking, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides, making it a great destination outside of the ski season.
4. Adventure and Adrenaline
Cardrona is known for adrenaline-pumping activities. Beyond skiing, you can try heli-skiing, paragliding, and horseback riding in the surrounding areas. The Cardrona Alpine Resort has New Zealand’s highest mountain carting track in summer, a unique and thrilling experience.
5. Cardrona Distillery
Cardrona is home to one of New Zealand’s most famous distilleries, known for producing high-quality spirits, including whisky, gin, and liqueurs. A distillery tour offers tastings and a glimpse into the distilling process.
6. Historical Charm
Cardrona is rich in history, particularly from the 1860s gold rush era. The Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic pubs, is a popular stopover with its rustic charm and heritage. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the local history.
7. Accessibility
Located between Queenstown and Wanaka, Cardrona is easily accessible from both of these popular tourist hubs. This makes it a convenient stop on a South Island road trip.
8. Family-Friendly
The resort has excellent facilities for families, including beginner-friendly slopes, kids' lessons, and a childcare center. Cardrona’s laid-back atmosphere makes it ideal for family vacations.
Whether you're an adrenaline seeker, a nature lover, or someone interested in history and local culture, Cardrona offers something for everyone.