In a highly anticipated announcement, the iconic Kiwi ski area has officially confirmed that skiers and snowboarders will soon have access to the lift-serviced Soho Basin starting in Winter 2025.
Spanning 150 hectares, Soho Basin’s skiable terrain equates to 150 rugby fields. This expansion increases Cardrona’s lift-accessed skiable area by 24%, boosting the resort’s total from 465 hectares to 615 hectares – solidifying its position as the largest commercial ski area in New Zealand.
Construction for the Soho Basin Express, a Doppelmayr six-seater chairlift, is set to commence in February, with installation of the towers and stations planned for the following summer, between December 2024 and May 2025. The lift is scheduled to be operational for the 2025 winter season.
“We are thrilled to announce that Soho Basin is officially happening,” exclaimed Laura Hedley, GM of Cardrona and Treble Cone Experiences. “This expansion opens up an entirely new realm of skiing and snowboarding at Cardrona. We can’t wait to ride Soho and share this incredible addition with everyone – it’s truly exceptional!”
In preparation for the increased guest capacity expected with the Soho Basin Express, Cardrona is enhancing its facilities. This summer, expansions to the Valley View carpark are underway, along with upgrades to the on-mountain Rentals department.
“But that’s not all,” continued Hedley. “We’re also improving our snowmaking capabilities, enhancing food and beverage offerings, retail services, and expanding other parking options to ensure that Cardrona continues to provide an outstanding experience alongside the new Soho Basin terrain.”
Soho Basin, situated directly below the resort’s existing “Queenstown Return” trail and comparable in size to Captain’s Basin, features a mix of playful intermediate slopes and more challenging advanced terrain. It promises ample opportunities for confident skiers and snowboarders to explore and enjoy.
The installation of the Soho Basin Express marks a significant milestone in Cardrona’s ongoing development efforts, following previous initiatives like the resort’s base building redesign, the McDougall’s Chondola, and initial steps into Soho with the Willow’s Quad chairlift in 2021.
“After facing several challenges in recent years, we’re thrilled to continue advancing Cardrona towards our vision of becoming a world-class ski and snowboard destination right here in New Zealand,” concluded Hedley.
Prior to commencing work on the new lift, Cardrona will undertake measures to preserve the landscape, flora, and fauna of Soho Basin. Updates on the progress of the Soho Basin Express installation and other developments will be shared with eager skiers and snowboarders as they unfold.
