Depending on the resort, you can ski or snowboard from
late May to mid November on runs that cater to every skill lever.
South Island fields generally get going in early June and close
in early October; North Island slopes from late June to November.
Mt. Hutt, near Methven in Canterbury, is usually the first to open.
New Zealand's prevailing westerly weather pattern and maritime climate
make for unique conditions. In July and August cold storms traditionally
produce excellent powder snow. Warmer spring conditions kick in
from about mid September.
