Snow Chains 101: Getting Ready to Drive in Queenstown This Winter
Planning to drive to Queenstown's ski fields this winter? Here's what you need to know about snow chains, fitting them, and booking them with your rental.
Queenstown's ski fields are all reachable by car, but winter driving up the mountain roads is a different game to summer. Here's what you need to know about snow chains before you head up.
Do you actually need snow chains?
If you're driving up to The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Cardrona, or Treble Cone during winter, chances are you'll need snow chains at some point in the season — access roads to all four ski fields can require them, and it's often mandatory rather than optional once conditions turn. It's one of the most overlooked parts of planning a Queenstown ski trip, especially for visitors who've never driven in snow before.
Fitting chains for the first time
If you've never fitted snow chains before, it's worth watching a demonstration rather than figuring it out cold on the side of the road. This video walks through the process step by step — worth a watch before you head up the mountain for the first time.
Booking chains with your rental
Snow chains aren't included as standard with every rental car, so it pays to check before you book. With Evolve Rentals, snow chains can be added to your winter booking — just let us know when you reserve your car so they're ready to go. If you're new to driving in snow, our team can also talk you through when and how to use them.
For the full rundown on all four ski fields, drive times, and what to expect this season, check out our Queenstown Winter Guide.
Book with Evolve Rentals today and get your winter road trip properly sorted, chains included.
FAQs
Do I need snow chains to drive to Queenstown's ski fields?
It's often required rather than optional once conditions turn — all four ski fields' access roads can call for chains during winter.
Are snow chains included with a rental car?
Not always as standard — with Evolve Rentals, chains can be added to your winter booking, so it's worth requesting them when you reserve.
How do I fit snow chains if I've never done it before?
It's worth watching a demonstration first — this video walks through the process before you head up the mountain.
Which Queenstown ski fields might require snow chains?
The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Cardrona, and Treble Cone can all require chains on their access roads during winter conditions.