Snow and cold temperatures boost Queenstown and Canterbury skiing

Skiers and boarders at Canterbury's Mt Hutt, and Coronet Peak and The Remarkables in Queenstown are revelling in beautiful fresh powder following cold temperatures and snow dumps during the week.

At Mt Hutt, 25cm of dry snow has covered the field, attracting a steady stream of happy visitors.

Mt Hutt ski area Manager James McKenzie said it was one of those memorable moments in the season, stating "for us, this was the perfect storm.

"It arrived last night (Wednesday) and, in perfect timing, cleared up early morning to have patrol work and grooming carried out ready for the first lifts to crank into action.

"The timing couldn't have been better considering we've just announced the extension of the Mt Hutt season to 13th October to include both weeks of the New Zealand school holidays."

In Queenstown, cold temperatures triggered the automated snow making system at Coronet Peak, ensuring an 8cm snowfall was topped up to perfection.

Coronet Peak ski area Manager Ross Copland said it was like opening day all over again, stating "it's just magnificent out there.

"The snow's soft and fresh, the guns have been blasting and the place is buzzing with a steady stream of very stoked skiers and riders.

"Coronet Peak is the local's favourite, especially for first tracks before going to work, so we're delighted to have fresh winter snow on offer just a few days before we officially head into spring."

The weather forecast over the coming days is looking favourable for snowmaking, and the longer-term forecast is for great daytime weather over the weekend and freezing temperatures again early next week.

Copland said Coronet's extensive snowmaking system combined with cold temperatures meant it didn't take long to coat the slopes with snow, adding "with the outlook for next week it looks like we can continue to top up well into early spring."

Over at The Remarkables, ski area Manager Ross Lawrence was equally thrilled.

Lawrence explained "it continues to be a fantastic season, with 15cm of new snow overnight and cold temperatures remaining for the next few days it's a reminder winter isn't over yet.

"There are plenty of people out there hiking and seeking out their favourite stashes, and our freshly groomed trails are providing that winter silk feel on new snow.

"We're looking forward to a brilliant weekend too."

For more information go to www.nzski.com