Winter has officially arrived in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, with Cardrona Alpine Resort announcing it will open for the 2026 season tomorrow, June 26, 2026, following fresh snowfall and favorable snowmaking conditions. The resort revealed the exciting news on social media, telling guests: “We’ve got news… we’re opening TOMORROW!”
Overnight, the mountain received 4 centimeters (2 inches) of fresh snow, bringing its 24-hour snowfall total to 10 centimeters (4 inches). Temperatures dropped to -6°C (21°F), allowing snowmakers to take full advantage of the cold conditions. “The guns are cranking,” Cardrona reported in its latest snow conditions update.
While extensive terrain is not yet available, Cardrona will begin the season with its learner facilities operating and sightseeing access via the McDougall’s Chondola. Opening day will focus on beginner terrain and early-season activities while snowmaking crews continue building coverage across the mountain. The South Island resort joked that there would be “no first chair bragging rights just yet,” but encouraged guests to come up and “get your legs moving.”
Guests will have access to:
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- Learner area carpets
- McDougall’s Chondola for sightseeing
- Snow play areas
- Early-season terrain park features, including rails and boxes from Cardrona Parks NZ
- Noodle Bar
- Base Café
- Vista Bar
Like many Southern Hemisphere resorts this season, Cardrona is relying heavily on snowmaking during the early weeks of winter. After weeks of warm temperatures, winter has finally arrived in New Zealand. The combination of sub-zero temperatures and fresh natural snowfall has allowed crews to ramp up operations ahead of opening day.
Located near Wānaka on New Zealand’s South Island, Cardrona is one of the country’s most popular ski resorts and a frequent training destination for elite athletes from around the world. The mountain is particularly renowned for its terrain parks, race facilities, and beginner-friendly terrain.
