Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific - Queenstown Hotel Reccomendation

Im planning to go riding in ZQN in mid-june. I was looking at either The Spire or Azur properties and both seem very nice. Im tempted by Spire more though as it looks nicer on website but wanted to ask you all NZers/FTers. My main thing there is going to to be riding (snowboarding), im planning 5 days or maybe 6 and want to ride all of those days (either Heli or Lifts). Any suggestions?

Not sure how helpful, but when I stayed in Queenstown I rented an apartment from Highview Apartments:

http://www.wotif.com/hotel/View?hotel=W51059&page=2&viewType=all

Gorgeous views, short walk to downtown. Very inexpensive and brand new, very nicely furnished apartments.

I was there in the summertime so I'm not sure how easily the walk to lifts, etc is.

very helpful thank you. Seems like im leaning towards Spire, it looks awesome but a bit pricey (approx 800NZD)

We were very happy at Crowne Plaza Queenstown. Rates were very good for a hotel of this caliber, and the location can't be beat (though maybe a little longer hike with skis ;) )

I've also stayed three times at the Crowne Plaza and have been pleased with it. If you get one of their renovated lake view rooms on the top floor it is great.

When I was there I stayed at the Sofitel, which is smack bang in the middle of town and the suite we had was fantastic. If I go back, I would definately stay here...

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g255122-d570324-Reviews-Sofitel_Queenstown-Queenstown_South_Island.html

You will need a car to the Remarkables or Coronet Peak. Snow may not be ready by mid-June.

As for accomodation, Spire seems very nice but a bit pricey. It seems a bit off from the action so you need a car for going to dinner etc unless you eat in.

A very good option is Peppers Beacon http://www.peppers.co.nz/Beacon.
This is smack in the middle and has 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms. With ski gear and all, you would like more space. They are right opposite the lake with fantastic views. Restaurants galore surround it.

I have several friends who have used Value Tours when they ski NZ, and they were very pleased. Just something to consider, but their package includes pick up from airport, accommodation, transport to the slopes and I think most include lift tickets. http://www.valuetours.com.au/Products/TemplateStartPage.aspx?tc=ZQNFSB

Edit: the above website states the ski season does not start until June 24th so watch when you book as there might be any white stuff to ride.

I've stayed at the Sofitel several times and loved it every time. It's right in the town centre and the rooms are stunning. If you're going for winter they also do ski packages.

Have also stayed at the Grand Mercure but didn't really like it. Room was ok but they were massively understaffed so service suffered.

Start date of ski season is variable. In good years definitely okay by mid June. In bad years may not be open.