The Remarkables skifield is about to turn 25, and to celebrate,, a "Locals Day" will be held on Sunday and Queenstown residents will be able to ski free.
"The snow is great at all parts of the ski area. If the weather is with us, we will have all lifts and all areas, including the Homeward Run shuttle, operating from tomorrow," ski area manager Ross Lawrence said.
Mr Lawrence said anyone who wanted to take advantage of the offer should take proof of address to the snow centre at Duke St on Sunday morning and catch a free bus to the skifield, where they will receive a free afternoon lift pass.
Due to its rocky environment, the Remarkables needs a thicker snow base than Coronet Peak and, three days before opening, the snow certainly looked very inviting.
There is about 65cm on the lower slopes and 85cm at the top of the mountain.
Everywhere there were groups of lift operators, ski patrollers, groomers, food and beverage personnel, technicians and service staff undergoing training.
Inside the cafe, finishing touches were being made to the refurbished dining area, while out on the slopes, improvements made during summer were evident, with the trail leading down from the Shadow Basin area having been widened to make the area more accessible for intermediate skiers.
New features have been built in all three terrain parks, including five portable log features, which can be moved to create challenges for skiers and boarders.
Mr Lawrence said a new activity trail and a special trail map have been put together for the children in a bid to encourage them to explore the area and find points of interest, such as tunnels and jumps.
The unsealed access road has also been upgraded, making it easier to maintain during winter.
"We have extended our transport service and bought three new 4 x 4 buses. Transport to Remarkables is free for day-pass holders and $5 for season-pass holders," he said.
The Remarkables skifield will open at 9am tomorrow, weather permitting.
