Tens of thousands of people descended on downtown Queenstown, Coronet Peak and the Remarkables to join in the action.
Highlights included the opening party and fireworks, launched by Prime Minister John Key, the vibrant street parade, the mirth-making Day on the Bay, dog derby and Mountain Mayhem competitions and the dazzling Mardi Gras.
Community groups prospered, including St Joseph's School. Parents manned a bacon butty stall in Earnslaw Park and raised $6184 for school resources.
Some of New Zealand's best freestylers, including Nick Hyne and Thomas Battersby, joined The Remarkables Parklife crew and dozens of residents for the Quiksilver BoxZilla competition yesterday. Dan Jenkins, of Queenstown, won the men's ski open, while Adie Lawrence, also of Queenstown, won the women's ski open.
American Josh Zirkel won the men's snowboarding open, while Christy Prior, of Auckland, won the women's snowboarding open.
About 850 revellers rode the Skyline gondola to enjoy some world-class jazz and a final slice of festival glamour at the Jazz Night.
International jazz export Nathan Haines, plus L.A. Mitchell, Sacha Vee, Oval Office, Rythmonyx and Tahuna Breaks entertained.
Chef Peter Thornley took guests on a culinary journey, with the best local seasonal cuisine, to explain the Life of Pinot, in the Hilton Queenstown.
The Quiksilver Afterburner, in Revolver, with DJ Maddox, was the final act in the festival, last night.
Festival director Simon Green said yesterday the festival had been a huge success.
"For me, the success of this festival was about how the Queenstown community rallied round to take part," he said.
"It was just amazing to see the community head into town for what must go down as one of the greatest opening parties on record.
"Every event was massively supported and everyone had a fantastic time.
"And it was wonderful to see the ski areas open during festival. Winter truly started here this year."
