Skiing despite aftershocks in New Zealand

Given the latest news about the aftershocks in New Zealand, it may sound bizarre to write that fresh snowfall is creating good conditions for skiing there. Experts say Christchurch, the country’s second-largest city, will need about a year to repair all the damage. A nighttime curfew is currently in place, yet other news agencies are reporting bright sunshine and up to 30 cm of fresh snow.

Ski areas in New Zealand are delighted with the snow, and many snow parks, ski arenas and resorts are keeping their ski slopes open. Only the Rainbow area, the two slopes around North Canterbury, Cardrona in the Wanaka region, and Craigieburn in the Canterbury destination are currently closed. There is even excitement that another ski area in New Zealand, Fox Peaks, can open on 12 September.
For years, winter in New Zealand has been an invitation to go skiing. Visitors here typically come from the United States, Japan, Germany, Canada and, of course, Australia. Winter in New Zealand is described as highly varied, and the number of ski areas in the country is remarkably high given its size. People say there is something for everyone here when it comes to winter sports in New Zealand—whether you meet the “racers” in the Taranaki region, freestyle skiers and families making their way to the Wanaka destination, or snowboarders celebrating at numerous events alongside many other skiers in New Zealand.

The ski season in New Zealand is coming to an end soon. Spring is already being welcomed in many snow parks and ski areas, and the season is gradually being declared over, even though fresh snowfall in the coming days will make for good skiing conditions in New Zealand. Please check locally whether the many planned events will go ahead under the same conditions as announced earlier, and for how long.