KiwiSkate (learn to skate) Programme

The Queenstown Ice Arena is proud to run the Kiwiskate learn to skate programme for a second year in succession. After a great turnout last year we are upping the ante by bringing in a experienced figure skater Rachel Formanek from the USA.

The Programme

The programme focuses on the fundamentals of good skating technique and leads the children through the basic skills before progressing to more complex movements as they advance. These skills are essential for both figure skating and ice hockey. Participants will earn badges as they progress and complete the skills required.

Children as young as 2 years old have been enrolled in the past and instructors ensure that everyone has a great time with lots of fun games  for all ages to reinforce the basic skills. Trust us, you'll be amazed at the progress the children make throughout the term. Older children can begin to master the skills necessary to compete in figure skating tournaments or go on to play ice hockey. Learning to skate properly has the added benefit of enhancing your child's sense of balance and increasing their core strength essential for many other competitive sports such as skiing, snowboarding, rugby, soccer etc.

Please call 441 8000 to book a place for your child or to ask any further questions.

Schedule

All classes are held from 4pm to 5pm weekdays. Skaters may participate in one or both sessions per week at their level.

Currently there are two 9-week terms of Queenstown Skate School classes held during the Queenstown Ice Arena’s winter season.  Students are separated into instruction groups by ability and age.

• Tiny Tots (under 6 years of age)- Tuesdays and Thursdays
• Beginner, Basic, and Elementary level skaters (under 12 years of age)- Tuesdays and Thursdays
• Novice I, Novice II and Advanced (under 12 years of age)- Mondays and Wednesdays
• Teens and Adults (13+ years of age)- Mondays and Wednesdays
• Friday Figure Skaters (All ages)- Fridays

How can I sign up?

It’s easy to enrol for classes, and there are several ways to do so:

• By stopping by the rink and inquiring about the Queenstown Skate School anytime during operating hours (link #3).
• By downloading the enrolment form and dropping it off in person at the rink’s reception, emailing it back to the Skate School Director at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  or posting it to:
  Queenstown Ice Arena PO Box 1055 Queenstown, 9300.

Skaters may participate without enrolling for all 9 weeks by paying a per-lesson walk-on fee.

Late enrolments will only be accepted at the discretion of the Skate School Director, reachable at (03) 441 8000 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Please note that no enrolment is finalised until full payment has been processed.

Why learn to skate?

Skating is a great way to learn new skills, promote fitness and coordination, and of course have fun!  It's a sport that anyone and everyone can engage in and enjoy.  Families, partners, siblings, and friends of all ages and levels of experience are able to enjoy time on the ice together.  Let us show you how with the Queenstown Skate School's learn to skate program. 

Worried another winter sport might interfere with the ski season?  Skaters of all ages report improvements when cross-training in other athletics, especially skiing and snowboarding, due to the agility, balance and endurance acquired along with skating skills.  Flexibility in class scheduling allows participants to do it all, and make the most of Queenstown's exciting winter season!