While skiing and riding have already started in parts of New Zealand, Friday, June 13 marks the official daily opening of the country’s major ski resorts for the 2025 season.
Some smaller ski areas have operated lifts earlier in June. However, after several weather-related delays, June 13 will be the day when most major centers fully open to the public.
Mt Hutt has seen a turbulent lead-up to the season. The resort currently reports 75 to 125 cm of natural snow cover, with nearly nine feet (263 cm) of snow falling in total before the season started.
Much of this snow fell during the first week of May. This early snowfall led several resorts, including Mt Hutt, to plan an early opening on May 31. However, a warm spell forced a delay until last weekend. Then, storms and heavy snowfall pushed the opening back again to the originally planned date of June 13.
Coronet Peak describes its early-season conditions as “mint,” with several lifts including Coronet Express, Meadows Express, and the Carpets already running. Meanwhile, The Remarkables opened for its 40th season with Curvey, Alta, and conveyor lifts operating, alongside a rail setup in the beginner’s area.
The Manganui Ski Area, managed by the Stratford Mountain Club, was the first to open for skiing last weekend. However, it closed on Monday due to rain damaging the snow cover.
After weather challenges and early-season starts and stops, New Zealand’s ski resorts are ready to welcome visitors for a full season beginning this Friday.