Queenstown welcomes first major snowfall for 2016

Skiers and riders rejoice, Queenstown has today recorded its first significant snowfall for 2016, as the ski fields prepare for the winter season in the Southern Hemisphere’s premier ski destination.

Snow overnight has blanketed the surrounding mountains, giving local ski areas a huge boost before the start of the season, and transforming the resort’s autumn colours into a winter wonderland.

Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort are due to open 11 June, Remarkables on 18 June and Treble Cone is set to follow on 23 June.

Destination Queenstown chief executive Graham Budd says there’s a buzz around town now in anticipation of the winter season that attracts visitors from all over New Zealand, Australia and the world.

“There’s been a high level of anticipation for the first significant snow fall of the season after a few early dustings in the last few weeks,” he says.

“Winter has arrived so it’s time to start planning your ski or snowboarding holiday. In fact, don’t delay, book today would be my message.”

 
Snow blankets picnic tables on the deck at Coronet Peak on Monday 23 May. Photo courtesy of Destination Queenstown

Queenstown is the premier ski and winter holiday destination in Australasia, offering excellent learner facilities as well as a wide range of terrain for all abilities across four diverse ski areas. You’ll also discover a huge range of world class activities for days off the slopes, as well as vibrant nightlife and après ski culture. Set amongst a pristine alpine lake and mountain environment in New Zealand’s stunning Southern Alps, Queenstown is the perfect setting for your next ski holiday or winter escape.

Celebrating the start of winter is a local tradition and Queenstown will officially welcome the season on 24 June when the annual American Express Queenstown Winter Festival kicks off. The award-winning festival is the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest and brightest winter celebration and boasts a calendar filled with fireworks, live music, street parades, comedy, quirky races and mountain mayhem. There are nine new events for 2016, and 40 free events in the programme.

Scheduled ski field opening dates:
Coronet Peak - 11 June
The Remarkables - 18 June
Cardrona Alpine Resort - 11 June
Treble Cone - 23 June