Two months ago, when the pair took over the management of the lodge they would have been expecting that come July, Queenstown would be in the thick of a white winter.
But nature has held up skifields' opening, leaving some businesses in the region pushing the panic button.
But Mr Evans said business was going according to plan for the adventure-themed Reavers.
"Before we took over, 90% of this place was full-time accommodation, so we are certainly happy with how quick we've made the transition."
Before Australian company Oz Snow Adventures took over at the beginning of May, the lodge was predominantly long-term stay for workers around the region. They are now looking to target more than just backpackers and hope to appeal to a wider audience of families, tour groups, couples and even schools.
"What sets us apart is we don't outsource to anybody and we can tailor-make packages for unique groups," Mr Evans said.
Mr Evans said the lodge had a point of difference because it could plan clients' holidays for them before they arrived.
"Aside from the accommodation, the lodge offers a daily itinerary for the guests, so they have the choice to take that up.""We're working on promoting these packages domestically around New Zealand, and of course, we have a huge Australian market which we are looking to exploit."
Oz Snow Adventures also has branches in Japan and can arrange holidays there.
"We sort it from our side and sell these trips locally," Mr Evans said.
In the two months the pair have been undertaking some extensive renovations around the 10-year-old building.
Everything down to the kitchen sinks have either been replaced or refurbished in the 94-room complex.
Between them, Mr Evans and Mr Schmidt have more than 20 years of living in the area, so they think they have a good understanding of what their clients are after.
Mr Evans formerly worked as Ngai Tahu Tourism's southern region sales manager and Mr Schmidt worked at Ski Express for three years. He has taken on the lodge's snowboard and ski hire rental shop.Guests are provided with a lift pass and taken up the mountain as part of certain packages they offer.
Reavers on its own plans to be a year-round activity centre, providing adventure itineraries for clients through summer as well.
- Olivia Caldwell
