The opening of Cardrona Alpine Resort this Saturday (June 11) is expected to coincide with plummeting temperatures and heavy snow.

The MetService is forecasting temperatures as low as negative four degrees Celcius in Wānaka on Saturday and Sunday night with snow expected down to 600 metres, and possibly lower, on Sunday morning 

“We’re excited about the snow in the forecast,” Cardrona and Treble Cone general manager of experience Laura Hedley said, “but we’ll be more excited when it’s sitting on the ground.” 

Cardrona had to delay its opening last season due to a lack of snow but Laura is confident this year will begin on schedule.

“We’re aiming to open on Saturday, [but] what will be open will depend on snow levels and weather,” she said.

“Usually we run a staged lift opening from our main basin out, but again that depends on snow levels and temperatures for snowmaking.”

Treble Cone (TC) is forecast to receive over a metre of snow by the end of this weekend but Laura said it is unlikely to result in an early opening for the ski field.

“With a scheduled opening day of June 25, lots of snow yet to fall and staff training to happen before that date, it’s unlikely Treble Cone will be open early, but we’ll take it as it comes,” she said.

The Snow Farm is scheduled to open on July 1 and general manager Sam Lee said he wouldn’t rule out opening early if conditions were suitable.

“This [snow fall] looks pretty significant. Our main challenge is how much we can bring online early considering staff levels,” he said.

Local alpine passes are also expected to be disrupted due to forecasted weather this weekend and people are advised to carry chains when travelling on these routes.

PHOTO: Real NZ