Methven, New Zealand – The start of snowmaking on Thursday at Mt. Hutt in Methven and at Coronet Peak in Queenstown signals the impending opening of two of New Zealand’s most popular ski areas.

Ski area staff from Coronet Peak and Mt. Hutt have been closely monitoring systems this week to ensure snowmakers were ready when temperatures dropped to optimal snowmaking levels.

Mt. Hutt also received 8cm of snow overnight as a cold front passed up the country. Ski Area Manager James McKenzie said that with recent forecasts, the snowmaking team had been on standby.

“As the temperatures have been dropping, the team has been checking systems and following weather predictions,” he said. “We’ve been amped, and are stoked to start firing.”

Mt. Hutt’s season opening is always subject to conditions as ground and air temperatures have to be right.

“Thanks to a cool autumn with two snow falls, the mountain has maintained snow coverage but we needed to establish a good base at altitudes below 1800 meters ahead of our scheduled opening day,” said McKenzie. “We’ve had eight guns making snow in the base area today with two more making snow at the top of the quad chair.”

A total of 87 guns are available for initial snowmaking on three main runs including Highway 72, Broadway and Morning Glory, as well as around the base area and on International. McKenzie said this would ensure that a range of beginner to intermediate trails would be available for opening day.

In Queenstown, 20 of Coronet Peak’s 213 snow guns switched on automatically as temperature and weather conditions were at optimal levels between 5 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Thursday. Coronet Peak ski area manager Ross Copland was confident that over the coming weeks conditions would enable regular refreshers to ensure a good base.

Staff at both mountains have been finalizing other operational logistics ahead of opening, including completion of summer maintenance and employment of seasonal staff.

“All of this happens behind the scenes, so when we start making snow it’s the sign that the season is upon us which creates a real sense of excitement,” said Copland. “That’s when the buzz and excitement starts, and when businesses in Queenstown and Methven start to gear up for the season.”

Mt. Hutt ski area is scheduled to open on June 15, subject to conditions, while Coronet Peak is scheduled to open on June 8.