A massive storm has dumped 50cm (20 inches) of snow over the past week at Mt Hutt leaving snow drifts up to three metres deep in some places on the mountain. The heavy weather closed the ski area and its access road on Sunday.

“We’re very happy, we are amped. This is a huge dump and while it will be wind affected, we’re looking forward to a powder day tomorrow. It’s shaping up to be the best day of the season so far.” Ski Area Manager Dave Wilson said.

Good snowfalls and optimum snow making has allowed all areas around Laked Wanaka to open. Cardrona opened on Friday unveiling its new high speed detachable quad chairlift in the Captain's Basin.
Snow Park NZ opened at the weekend with a traditional Kiwi welcome for skiers and boarders, offering a pie and a stubby as they board the lift for their first ride up the mountain.

The third Wanaka area, Treble Cone, opened yesterday (Monday 30th). Here all visitors and staff encouraged to car pool to support their commitment to sustainable tourism practices.

Over on Mt Ruapehu, the Turoa ski area officially now has the biggest snow base at this time of year (151cm,five feet) since the all time record breaking 1992 season.

The other Mt Ruapehu area Whakapapa has gone from nothing to 122cm’s in five days. Both Ski Areas are digging themselves out and opening lift facilities and trails and fast as possible.

The Remarkable also opened yesterday, five features are up and running in the area’s UP&GO Terrain Park. “There’s a good jib session area ready to go and as more snow falls, more of the park will be opened.” said manager Ross Lawrence.

At Coronet Peak, the area hopes to open its Express lift at 8am sharp tomorrow morning (Wednesday July 2nd) as First Tracks gets underway for the 2008 season.

Those with a First Tracks extension to their seasons pass or a special First Tracks ticket, purchased in conjunction with a day ticket valid for the same day, will be able to ride the Coronet Express lift from 8am, before the lifts ‘officially’ open at 9am.

“Snow conditions can be amazing first thing in the morning, particularly after a fresh snowfall or a night’s snowmaking,” says ski area manager Hamish McCrostie. “First Tracks allows enthusiastic people to enjoy the first light and first runs of the day. “It’s also a popular option for people who work in Queenstown. A few runs before work is a fantastic start to the day made even better when followed by a coffee and breakfast from the Coronet Restaurant.”