On Queenstown's doorstep are two key areas: The Remarkables and Coronet Peak; the latter being the location for night skiing - and a wicked place to watch the sun set in pure orange glory.
Night skiing has its own excitement. It's eerie sliding down the slopes in the light of the moon. You interpret the terrain differently and communication from eyes to legs happens in a strange way as you learn to trust yourself to you go faster.
Soon you are whooping and yelling as you careen down the slopes with the few other night ski devotees.
Night skiing or riding at Coronet Peak ranks as one of the country's most exhilarating and little-known winter experiences, yet it's available to all levels of experience.
It's a spiritual moment as soon as you get off the lift in the dark on a clear, crisp and still evening and look up at a full moon rising above the mountains.
It's so quiet. Gigantic floodlights illuminate the trails with great pools of light, throwing the mountain terrain into sharp relief.
If you prefer your snow in the daylight, then head to Coronet Peak's 280 skiable hectares with stunning views of lake and mountain adding to the casually sophisticated ambience.
Or enjoy a true alpine experience at the Remarkables Ski Area with spectacular views across the Wakatipu Basin.