Operators of the southern hemisphere's only snow and ice luge track had planned to open it during Queens Birthday weekend but unseasonably warm weather meant the ice was not freezing as it should.
Maniototo Ice Rink manager Fred Newman said the 12cm of snow which fell last week had "made all the difference".
"Guntis [Rekis, luge coach] has been out there excitedly driving up and down the track to compact the snow into ice."
About 15 people braved the cold weather to ride the luge yesterday. Amos Dowle, of Christchurch, said he had been waiting to test out the track and he was looking forward to spending a week there to practise his technique.
Mr Newman said he had not added up the cost to the business of the delayed opening.
"But I don't want to know," he said.
