Keen skiers were eagerly awaiting the first lift at Cardrona this morning.
The McDougall Chondola was officially opened to a waiting crowd of about 30 at 8.30am.
Spirits were high at the ski field between Queenstown and Wanaka throughout the morning, with families visiting from overseas ahead of school holidays.
The Donvan family, from Burleigh Heads in Australia's Gold Coast, said they had noticed the change in temperature.
“We’re so excited - but it is pretty cold though,” Willow Donovan said.
“It’s the kids' first time on the snow today, so we’re excited and rapt, can’t wait to get into it. It was their first time seeing snow yesterday."
Mother Telena said a week ago they were not sure if they would see snow on their trip.
“We're so glad to see this much."
Willow and siblings Tucker and Frankie had snowboard and ski first-timer lessons at 10.20am.
The recent storm has brought 91cm of snow to the base area (1620m) providing the resort with a solid foundation for the start of winter.
The road to the ski field was clear, with some occasional ice and grit above Valley View this morning.
Chains are required for two-wheel-drive vehicles.
