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How to Get Here: Australia & New Zealand

Posted On: May 20, 2026 |
Planning a ski holiday from Australia to Big White Ski Resort? Whether you're escaping the summer heat for a Northern Hemisphere winter or ticking off a bucket-list ski trip, getting here is easier than you think. This guide covers the best flight routes, travel tips, and how to make your journey seamless from the southern hemisphere to Big White.

Flying to Kelowna: Your Best Route

There are no direct flights from Australia to Kelowna, but getting here is still straightforward with one or two connections through major international hubs.

Sydney / Melbourne / Brisbane → Vancouver → Kelowna

  • Flight Time: Approximately 15 hours to Vancouver + 1 hour to Kelowna
  • Airlines: Qantas and United Airlines offer flights to Vancouver, with discounted airfare also available through Air Canada, while Air Canada and WestJet provide connecting flights to Kelowna.
  • Total Travel Time to Big White: Approximately 20–24 hours

Get more air travel information here.

Book A Shuttle & Let Us Pick You Up

Once you land in Kelowna, you're just a short 55-minute shuttle ride away from Big White's front door. Many visitors opt for the Big White Airport Shuttle, which offers comfortable and convenient transportation directly to the resort. Prebooking your shuttle is recommended, especially during peak ski season. Book your shuttle here.

| Tip: Pre-book your shuttle at least a week before arrival for a guaranteed spot.

Travel Tips for Australian Visitors

  • Stay Longer: With the travel time involved, most Australian guests stay 7 days or longer to make the most of their trip.
  • Time Zone Adjustment: Kelowna is significantly behind Australian time zones, so consider arriving a day early to adjust before hitting the slopes.
  • Passes & Rentals: Book in advance to secure the best rates and availability during peak international travel periods.
  • Snow Conditions: Expect light, dry Okanagan powder, which is very different from Australian snow conditions.
Resort lifestyle
Resort lifestyle
Resort lifestyle
Resort lifestyle

Simplify Your Entire Trip with A Travel Package

Planning your ski vacation has never been easier! Book Direct offers special travel packages that combine accommodations, lessons, rentals and lift passes into one convenient spot with exclusive lift ticket rates. Our team can create a custom package for you that includes airport transfers, making your trip seamless from start to finish. Explore accommodation options and hot deals here.

For more tips, visit our First Timer's Guide to Big White.

Have some more questions or are you looking for a quote? Contact us

Other Important Information

Stay connected throughout your trip with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, available across Big White Ski Resort and powered by TELUS. Simply enter your email once to access the network for your entire stay. You’ll also find TELUS charging stations in the Village Centre Mall and Happy Valley Day Lodge, which is perfect for a quick recharge between runs.

Power & Adapters
Travelling from abroad? Canada operates on 110 volts, and power outlets use two flat parallel prongs (Type A) or two flat prongs with a round grounding pin (Type B). Be sure to bring the appropriate adapter for your devices.

Currency & Payments
To stay up to date on exchange rates, visit XE Currency Converter before you travel. ATMs are conveniently located throughout the resort, and major credit cards are widely accepted, making it easy to pay for everything from dining to lift tickets. Looking for more helpful tips? Explore our travel tips to make the most of your visit.

Resort lifestyle
Resort lifestyle
Resort lifestyle
Resort lifestyle

Our blog content may be time sensitive and any prices or dates quoted are subject to change.