The Remarkables ski area's 2016 winter season started today. As last-minute preparations wound up yesterday, Queenstown reporter Louise Scott was given a "sneaky peak''.
Even after 10 years at the helm, the Remarkables ski area manager Ross Lawrence says he never gets bored on his morning commute.
Joining him on his drive up the Remarkables' access road, it is easy to see why; a red sky peeping out over snow-capped peaks with stunning views across Lake Wakatipu.
He tells the Otago Daily Times everyone is pretty stoked about opening day, but there is still work to do.
The grooming crew is making finishing touches.
The snow patrollers are checking hazards and the final batch of newbie staff are being shown the ropes. Skifield staff, which total 180 on any given day, start work at 4.30am.
First up are snow groomers. After nine seasons, Bryan Shaw is a pro.
"We reshape it back to perfection. We also set up new things, creating the right dimensions, distances and angles, making sure it is as smooth as possible. We are quite passionate about it because we get out to use it as well.''
Their role includes liaising with the ski patrol team.
Mr Lawrence says calls start long before dawn.
"They check in with the guys on the hill to ask what has been going on overnight.
"If there is an accumulation of snow, they will ask what direction it has come from. They will note snow loading, whether it is northerly or southerly. Just so they can start to get a picture in their head about where the work might be required.''
Once a safety assessment is done, a team of 12 complete avalanche control.
As well as snow stability, they check trails, looking for hazards such as rocks or a creek opening.
Mr Lawrence says all team roles are linked to ensure people remain safe on the mountain - from the contractors who clear the newly sealed access road to check-in staff who ensure skiers have the right equipment and knowledge, to the hospitality staff who keep skiers fed and watered.
Mr Lawrence says conditions are good and he is looking forward to the new season.
Asked if he had managed to get out to test the fresh powder, he said yes - but just once so far.
