Skiers estimated 1000 people - the equivalent of about one-fifth of Wanaka's permanent population - were at the skifield for the busiest opening day in years.
The conditions were sunny, clear, calm and cold.
All lifts were operating and the first skiers in the Saddle Basin enjoyed powder conditions.
For the first time in New Zealand, the AirBag was operating.
Hundreds of daring skiers and boarders gave it a test run and were guaranteed a soft landing from their stunts every time.
At lunchtime, many skiers drank sparkling wine in the courtyard at 1pm and listened to three-piece band Windblown.
Temperatures ranged between -2degC at dawn to about 7degC later in the day.
The MetService has forecast similar conditions until Sunday. Some early morning cloud is expected on Sunday and Monday.
The extended forecast into next week shows the return of clear and sunny days from Tuesday.
Cardrona Alpine Ski Resort opens today and the Snow Park opens tomorrow.
