Temple Basin, one of New Zealand’s most rugged and remote ski fields, is defying all expectations. Just weeks after announcing a complete write-off for the season, the ski area opened on September 6. The surprise opening comes after the resort received its first substantial snowfall of the season.
On August 20, the club-operated ski field in Arthur’s Pass National Park announced it wouldn’t be able to open this winter. However, a powerful early spring storm completely changed the outlook. According to OpenSnow, Temple Basin received 14 inches (36 centimeters) of new snow in 24 hours. They got 23 inches (58 centimeters) over the past five days, blanketing the steep chutes and basins.
The Official Announcement
The team has been working hard to get the ski area ready for this late-season opening, with the resort posting to its Facebook page:
“Thank you for your recent offerings to the snow gods, they appear to be appeased. Over the last 24 hours, we have put in some mahi and are stoked to announce that we will be running Temple and Cassidy tows for the weekend! Book into our toasty warm lodge ASAP through our website so we can secure the right amount of kai and cold beverages! Please note that the rest of the ski area will still be considered backcountry access – this includes downhill basin. Please check the avalanche forecast – there will be no control work or ski patrol assistance in these areas so experienced backcountry skiers and snowboarders only. The goods lift will be operating regular hours of 9 am – 12:00 pm & 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm.” – Temple Basin
The Experience
While the news is incredibly exciting for skiers and snowboarders down under, it’s important to note that the mountain is only open for backcountry access, and there will be no control work or ski patrol assistance. The club ski area is recommending that only experienced backcountry skiers and snowboarders come this weekend.
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Photo: OnTheSnow.com
You’ll find Temple Basin on the Main Divide of the Southern Alps, it’s within Arthur’s Pass National Park. It’s one of New Zealand’s most adventurous ski areas, with a history dating back to 1929. The Temple Basin Ski Club runs the field with the help of The Canterbury University Snow Sports Club. It relies on rope tows and volunteer operations, instead of large-scale resort infrastructure. The late opening shows how unpredictable snow seasons can be. This is especially true for ski areas that rely on natural snowfall.
This surprise opening gives local skiers a chance to get some fresh powder at a time when many had already packed away their gear.
