Conditions Report
Industry News
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Shoveling the first big snow at The Remarks. Image: Remarks Facebook Page
Close to a meter of snow fell at some South Island New Zealand resorts during a major snowstorm last week. Snow fell as low as 300 meters in the Southern Lakes region, and the Crown Range road between Wanaka and Queenstown was closed. With fantastic winter conditions and solid base depths, the rumor is that some resorts may aim to open early.
Cardrona covered in it’s first blanket of snow. Image: Cardrona Facebook Page
Cardrona Alpine Resort reported 40+ centimeters at 4:30 PM on Monday, and it was still dumping. With a base depth of 76-80 centimeters, the resort is set to open on June 16th as planned.
New snow at Treble Cone. Images: Treble Cone Facebook Page
Treble Cone measured their minimum base at a whopping 120 centimeters! With this base and the reported 75 cm of new snow at the top of the mountain on Thursday, TC is looking great for an early start.
A ton of snow at The Remarkables! Images: Remarks Facebook Page
With 60+ centimeters reported, The Remarkables ski area is rumored to be the first to open. Preparations are underway!
A patroller checks out conditions, and grooming gets underway at Coronet Peak. Images: Coronet Peak Facebook Page
Coronet Peak will not be far behind, with a packed base of 50-70 centimeters. The race for who will open first is on!
“With just under a month left until many resorts are set to open, anything can happen,” says Sebastian Swann, an instructor trainer and examiner for the NZSIA. Swann has been working winter seasons in New Zealand for 13 years and has seen it all. “If the temps stay cold, the snow will stay. If it rains, it could create a good base for the entire season.”
Central Otago locals say “snow in May doesn’t stay”. Let’s hope it does!
