Head to the slopes this summer

Skiers and snowboarders, who don’t want to wait until next season to hit the slopes, should head down under to New Zealand in the next few months. The winter ski season opens in Queenstown from June to October and the region turns into a picturesque alpine playground.

There are six resorts based around Queenstown and Wanaka that are suitable for all levels of skier and boarder.

Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world and there are plenty of other adrenalin activities to try from bungee jumping to heliskiing and cross country skiing. You can also explore the rainforest and sounds of Fiordland, plus visit the many wineries close by to sample the great wines of the region.

Flight Centre is currently offering a five-day skiing package (not including international flights) from £407 per person that includes airport transfers from Queenstown airport with a local Ski Express host, five nights accommodation at the 4* Mercure Resort near the shores of Lake Wakatipu, unlimited ski shuttle and ski lift card for Coronet Peak and the Remarkables ski areas.

Extra nights are from £84 per person. Flight Centre currently has flights to Queenstown from £869 per person flying from Gatwick with Emirates via Dubai. This is for departures before 30 June 2007.

For reservations visit Flightcentre.co.uk.