Skiers and snowboarders in Queenstown, New Zealand, are rejoicing as the snow falls and falls and falls in the mountains surrounding the South Island resort town.
The snow started yesterday (Wednesday 6 July) bringing freezing temperatures and snow to low levels. Forecasts predict a storm pattern that is expected to continue into next week, dumping snow on the picturesque Southern Alps ski areas.
Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Cardrona ski areas all report snowy conditions today as part of the wintry blast hitting the country. Coronet Peak and The Remarkables both opened for the season within the last week and Cardrona is on schedule to open tomorrow (Friday 8 July).
Destination Queenstown CEO Tony Everitt said the natural snow and promise of more to come had led to an “awesome vibe” around the town.
“The mountains and low lands are turning white and this fall heralds promising snow cover for the New Zealand school holidays which start at the end of next week (16 July). Loads of people are already here enjoying the slopes and with more white gold falling we’re delighted our season is now cranking up.”
Coronet Peak ski area manager Hamish McCrostie said Coronet Peak and The Remarkables had each received “10cm of snow by this morning and counting” as snowfalls continued throughout the day.
“The forecast is looking very promising with good snowfalls expected from now until Tuesday and the freezing level dropping,” he said.
Mr McCrostie said both ski areas were still snowmaking as much as temperatures allowed on all main trails. The new snow meant Coronet Peak would open its six seater Greengates chair on Saturday. More trails would open progressively at all mountains in the region.”
Cardrona Marketing Manager Nadia Ellis said mountain staff were excited about welcoming customers to the first day of the 2011 Cardrona season tomorrow.
“We had 10cm of snow overnight and consistent snowfalls today has resulted in at least a further 8cm over the mountain. And there’s more forecast,” she said.
Mr Everitt said Queenstown is a very attractive short haul winter holiday destination for Australians this year.
“A high Australian dollar combined with regular, direct and inexpensive trans-Tasman access makes for a wonderful break in Queenstown where there’s just so much to do on and off the slopes and a range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.”
Visitors from Australia can take advantage of 30 trans-Tasman flights from Air New Zealand, Qantas, Pacific Blue and Jetstar flying direct into the resort each week and domestic connections from Air New Zealand and Jetstar.
