Two overnight shifts of snowmaking paved the way for the Naseby Luge to open for the season, just in time for the annual Maniototo Ice Festival.
New Zealand Olympic Luge Association president Geoff Balme said the mild start to winter pushed back the opening of the luge.
"We were getting a little bit nervous, although it has been as late as this before.''
With temperatures dropping last week, volunteers worked through the night on Thursday and Friday to make snow and the lower half of the 360m track was covered in time for the ice festival on Saturday.
A series of further frosts forecast this week meant snow could be made to cover the top half of the track, too.
People had the chance to try luging, skating, curling and ice hockey during the festival.
Maniototo Ice Rink president Jock Scott said the aim was to give visitors a "taste'' of the ice sports so they returned for more, maybe in the school holidays.
"We've been extremely fortunate in the support we've had for this day from local businesses who sponsor the prizes,'' he said.
The ice rink, luge track and international indoor curling rink all share a site and join forces for the day.
This year, the event attracted a steady stream of visitors, many of whom were having their first try at the activities available.
Mr Balme said there were still some places available on the annual luge camp and ice camp, to be held at Naseby in the school holidays.
