Ski Season Underway in Australia & New Zealand

10th June 2023

There is precious little snow in Australia as the season starts, with some resorts only able to open a few runs. Others can open none at all. It is looking better in New Zealand. NEW

A few days ago it looked like none of the resorts would be able to offer skiing and snowboarding on their Opening Weekends.

This always falls on the Monarch’s birthday at the beginning of June as there is a holiday weekend – The King’s Weekend.

Earlier in the week some resorts like Thredbo announced they would not be firing up their lifts, then there was a dusting of snow in some resorts and they were able to at least offer a few slopes for sliding.

Perisher:

There has been some online criticism on the “opening” as there is only a ‘magic carpet’ lift open in Perisher.

Mt Buller:

Other resorts though have remained closed.

Falls Creek:

The Australian ski industry contributes over two billion dollars annually to the national economy.

Australian skiers and snowboarders make 2.5 million trips to the ski resorts each season.

There was some early promise in May when snow fell and the start of the season was looking good:

More snow falls in Australia as the season approaches

It is all a distinct contrast from this time last year when the resorts in Australia opened to bumper snow, as we reported on PlanetSKI at the time:

More ski resorts in Australia open with excellent conditions

In New Zealand things are currently looking better with Mr Hutt on the South Island the first resort to open.

Mr Hutt:

The resort is celebrating its 50th anniversary this winter and the opening had special events plus a competition to win a 50-year season pass.

NZSki chief executive, Paul Anderson, said it was a big year for the ski field and there were high hopes for a good season.

Opening weekend for @MtHutt and it’s an absolute #bluebird day up there ☀☀☀

🔭 I can almost see the lift queues from here…

⛷🏂⛷ pic.twitter.com/4cyXaZGSsA
— MetService (@MetService) June 9, 2023