Queenstown is gearing up for the opening of its youngest ski area, The Remarkables on Saturday June 20.

Conditions at the ski area are looking good for opening day due to exceptional May snowfall topped up by snowmaking over the last couple of weeks, according to Ross Lawrence, Ski Area Manager.

Mr Lawrence said that locals had been visiting the ski area since the first snow fell in May.

“We’re hoping the weather works in our favour over the next 10 days so that we can maintain our great base for some excellent skiing and riding come opening day on 20 June,” he said.* “Everyone is already excited about this season, people have been coming up to catch some pre-season snow, and loving it.”

Mr Lawrence said there has been a huge amount of effort and investment in improving The Remarkables over the summer, particularly in family and beginner areas.

“Every season we try and improve, and this season we’re particularly happy to open our expanded Skiwiland Early Learning Centre - we’re looking forward to welcoming young children and their families along with all other skiers and riders from opening day.”

New this year is the FReemarkables bus where all holders of day and multiday passes are entitled to free transport to The Remarkables from Queenstown Snow Centre.* The base building has been reorganised and the road improved with the installation of 3.6 kilometres of new barriers.