New Zealand’s long-awaited winter weather pattern may finally be turning in favor of ski resorts across the South Island, with several mountains now tentatively targeting opening dates after weeks of warm temperatures, rain, and frustrating snowmaking conditions. A cold southerly change forecast for Wednesday and Thursday, June 24 and 25, is expected to bring natural snowfall and improved snowmaking opportunities, offering fresh hope for resorts that have already delayed the start of the 2026 season multiple times.
At Mt. Hutt, snowmakers have spent the last 36 hours rebuilding base depths lost during last weekend’s warm weather event. The Canterbury ski area said weather models are increasingly aligned on a forecast that could deliver 10-15 centimeters (4-6 inches) of snow later this week. “Provided we can get back to snowmaking on Friday (and the snow lands where we want it!), Saturday 27th still remains a prospect for opening,” the resort said in its latest update.
Further south, Cardrona Alpine Resort is now targeting Friday, June 26, for what would be its first day of the season. The resort acknowledged that the recent weather system delivered exactly what forecasters predicted: warm temperatures and rain rather than snow. But Cardrona said that conditions have begun improving, “Things are looking better up here after a night of good snowmaking.” With additional snow in the forecast and colder temperatures expected, the resort is planning for an initial opening focused on its learner terrain.
Nearby, The Remarkables has yet to announce a firm opening date but appears increasingly optimistic. After postponing its opening last week, the Queenstown ski area said improving snowmaking temperatures and forecast snowfall later this week could finally allow operations to begin. “Winter is a waiting game, but when conditions line up, things can change quickly,” the resort said in a social media update. Management indicated a further announcement on opening plans is expected shortly.
Meanwhile, Roundhill Ski Area near Lake Tekapo, where New Zealand alpine star Alice Robinson regularly trains, continues to list June 27 as its scheduled opening date. The resort has not issued any revised updates and remains on track to begin operations this weekend if conditions cooperate.
While much of New Zealand’s ski industry waits for winter to arrive, Coronet Peak remains the lone major South Island resort operating. Thanks to extensive snowmaking, the resort has maintained beginner skiing and snowboarding terrain throughout June, while also offering sightseeing via the Coronet Express gondola, sledding, and terrain park features.
The latest forecasts suggest the next several days could be pivotal for New Zealand’s ski season. After one of the slowest starts in recent memory, a combination of colder temperatures, renewed snowmaking, and natural snowfall may finally allow more resorts to welcome skiers and snowboarders before the end of June.