The improved access to the chairlift was part of a multimillion-dollar investment in infrastructure at the skifield over the summer.
The four-seater Valley View chairlift has also been installed to provide access to the new, lower altitude run down to Speed Straight.
But it was not operating yesterday because there was not enough natural snow.
Cardrona sales and marketing manager Nadia Ellis said thousands of people were at the skifield yesterday, enjoying sunny, clear conditions high above the fog that hovered over Wanaka all day.
Snow conditions were excellent, with a 75cm base on the upper mountain, 40cm on the lower mountain and wind-packed powder on all main trails.
The 15cm of new snow earlier in the week meant many visitors enjoyed fresh tracks yesterday, Ms Ellis said.
"It's been a fantastic start to the season at Cardrona, with the whole ski area buzzing with excitement. Our brand new tunnel is proving a big hit with its surprise noises entertaining skiers and riders as they cruise through it back towards the Whitestar Express," she said.
All chairlifts other than Valley View were operating.
Staff will evaluate natural snowfall and the terrain this year at Valley View before installing a snow-making system next winter.
The chairlift's official opening has been scheduled for next year.
• Some foodie facts:
- Cardrona employs 400 staff.
- On opening day, 78 people were rostered in food and beverage departments.
- More than 78kg of coffee was ordered for opening day, and 14 truck trips were scheduled to stock the mountain with food and drinks.
• The Snow Park opens today. Fine frosty weather is forecast in the mountains all weekend. The Metservice forecast is for continuing fog and frost in low, sheltered places until Tuesday.
