Keen skiers and snowboarders enjoyed runs accessed by the Alta Chair, Sugar Chair and the beginners’ area base lodge conveyor.

The Remarkables ski area manager Ross Lawrence said the team on the mountain was “thrilled” to be open on schedule.

“We opened on a picture-perfect Queenstown winter day, with blue skies, great snow and lots of smiles making for an excellent first day,” he said.

“Everyone up here is enjoying getting in their first runs of the season.”

The Remarks terrain park crew set up ten features in the terrain park for skiers and boarders to enjoy, with a range of beginner through to advanced boxes and rails.

Seven Remarkables Primary School students were on hand to help with some opening day duties.

They were selected as winners of a Snow Art competition where they painted a picture of themselves or their family enjoying the snow up at The Remarkables.

The ski area is offering an amazing locals promotion to celebrate its first week of opening. Locals can buy a special pass that is valid every day (Monday 18th – Friday 22nd June) for the price of a one day lift pass.

Locals need to present a proof of residence such as a rates or utility bill at the Queenstown Snow Centre or The Remarkables guest services desk to access the offer.

Kids 10 and under ski free at The Remarkables for the entire season, in recognition of the ski area’s fun family focus.