Words By Felicity Bonello

There’s winter. And then there’s winter in Lake Wanaka and Cardrona. Maybe it’s the snow-capped mountains as far as the eye can see; perhaps it’s because this region was forged upon gold; it could be the areas connection to nature, which offers everyone that visits a sense of freedom. Either way, there’s certain energy in this part of New Zealand that made the Cardrona Alpine Resort the ultimate backdrop for our P.E Nation x DC Shoes collaboration in snow shoot.

With consistently good weather, reliable snow conditions and the longest scheduled snow season in the South Island, Cardrona provided the P.E Nation team with sunshine, fresh alpine air and the most laid-back, stress free atmosphere for P.E Nation Co-Founders and avid skiers, Pip Edwards and Claire Tregoning to shoot the limited edition seven-piece snow capsule.

The capsule is designed for women who value authentic style coupled with reliable on-mountain performance, and is unlike anything currently available on the market. To take full advantage of the collection and the unique snowboarding oasis, the girls teamed up with DC Shoes rider Stefi Luxton who ricocheted off tubes and jumps, showcasing hand plants and tricks on the famous Cardrona half pipe.

Majestic in every sense of the word, you need to secure this place on your bucket list. For those inspired to spend a portion of winter in New Zealand we highly recommend heading to Lake Wanaka and of course Cardrona. Cardrona lies on the Crown Range Road, a steep, mountainous route between Queenstown and Wanaka. To the west, Cardrona Alpine Resort offers downhill ski runs and terrain parks. On the valley’s east you’ll find a cross-country skiers paradise at Snow Farm NZ. Here, there’s something for everyone.