New Zealand snow update

Yippee! Winter has arrived in New Zealand and the main resorts are building up to their opening days. Here's a run-down of the latest news from the main ski areas:

Mt Ruapehu (Whakapapa and Turoa): Cooler temperatures have brought fresh snow to higher elevations. With the freezing level expected to drop, conditions should be ideal for snowmaking and more snow is forecast over the next few days. Turoa has installed a brand new snowmaking system, a smart new Alpine Chalet and, best of all, a new chairlift - the High Noon Express. Turoa opens on 16 June. More info from www.mtruapehu.com.

Mt Hutt: The Canterbury field received a 25cm dump on Saturday and snowmaking is underway. Opens on 9 June.

Coronet Peak: The snow guns are blasting, but the base is still low. Opens on 9 June.

The Remarkables: This is the place to go for coaching. The mountain is introducing Afternoon Burton Freestyle Sessions (daily 2-4pm), 6 Saturday Freestyle sessions (every Saturday) and, for the girlies, the Burton Girls on Edge Camp, with instruction from New Zealand's top female coaches. Opens on 23 June. More info on Mt Hutt, Coronet Peak and The Remarks from www.nzski.com.

Treble Cone: Natural snow has fallen and snowmaking is underway. Opens 26 June. More info from www.treblecone.co.nz.

Cardrona: Snowmaking has begun and more snow is forecast. Opens 22 June. More info from www.cardrona.com.

Don't forget, the annual Queenstown Winter Festival kicks off the season in style and runs from 22 June to 1 July.

Photo credit: www.mtruapehu.com