Ski resorts in New Zealand are preparing for an early start to the ski season with serious weather warnings in the vicinity of Otago and the Southland being lifted soon after a cold snap that has brought a good deal of snow to the area. About the Queenstown area, the ski field operators have jumped into action in readiness for a great early season.

The Otago ski fields such as the Remarkables Ski Area have already received just about 2 feet of snow ahead of the official season opening on June 20. The low lying ground is getting snow down to approximately 700m. Ski resorts such as Coronet Peak has had some good dumps and is looking good for its June 6 opening with snow machines anticipated to be in operation from May 22.

It’s a nice beginning to the season but with opening day still weeks away, ski field operators aren’t getting too animated just yet. Nevertheless you’d rather see snow and colder temperatures now than not.