Looking to ski during the October school holidays? The good news is that there is still plenty of skiing available across New Zealand, and conditions are looking very good for this time of year, in fact in some places great!
The 2026 school holidays run from 26 September to 11 October, which lines up with the final weeks of the season for several ski fields.
And while it might be spring, we certainly haven’t forgotten about winter. Fresh snow has continued to arrive throughout September, helping maintain hgood snow bases across the country.
September 2026 snow conditions update
It’s spring skiing in New Zealand and the snow conditions are magic at the moment.
What are spring ski conditions like?
Spring skiing is different from the middle of winter, but on the right day it can be some of the best skiing of the season.
Cold overnight temperatures can leave the snow firm first thing in the morning, before the sun gradually softens the surface through the day. By late morning and into the afternoon, you can often find softer, more forgiving snow and some excellent spring corn conditions.
The warmer weather also means longer, more relaxed days on the mountain, with lighter layers often enough when the sun is out.
But don’t assume October always means warm weather. Spring conditions can change quickly, and cold fronts can still bring fresh snow, strong winds and winter-like temperatures.
Where can you ski during the October school holidays?
There are still several ski fields operating during the holidays.
Coronet Peak is scheduled to remain open until 4 October, giving Queenstown visitors the first week of the school holidays to get some spring skiing in. The Remarkables is open through to 11 October, covering the full school holiday period.
Cardrona has extended its season through to 18 October, a week beyond the school holidays, after strong spring conditions.
Mt Hutt also continues into October, while Whakapapa and Tūroa provide options for North Island skiers heading to Mt Ruapehu.
| Ski field | Open during school holidays | School holiday / kids programmes |
|---|---|---|
| Coronet Peak | Until 4 October | Kids lessons & programmes |
| The Remarkables | Until 11 October | Kids multi-day programmes |
| Mt Hutt | Until 11 October | Kids lessons & holiday programmes |
| Cardrona | Until 18 October | Kids multi-day programmes |
| Whakapapa | Open through the school holidays | Holiday programmes |
| Tūroa | Open through the school holidays | Kids lessons & school holiday programmes |
| Snowplanet | Open year-round | September/October holiday programme |
Tips for skiing during the October school holidays
The secret with spring skiing is timing.
Snow can be firm early in the day, particularly on shaded slopes, before softening as temperatures rise. Checking the daily snow report can give you a better idea of when conditions are likely to be at their best.
Spring sun can also be strong at altitude, especially with the reflection off the snow, so sunscreen and good goggles or sunglasses are essential.
It is also worth checking road and weather conditions before heading up. Spring weather can move quickly, and lift operations can change with wind, snow or changing conditions.
Indoor Skiing during the school holidays
If the weather doesn’t play ball, or you’re looking for another option once the outdoor ski fields begin closing, Snowplanet in Auckland operates year-round with real indoor snow.
Snowplanet also runs school holiday programmes and packages, making it a good option for families wanting to ski, snowboard or simply spend some time on the snow without relying on mountain conditions.
Is October a good time to ski in New Zealand?
Absolutely.
You may have fewer ski fields to choose from than in July or August, but the mountains that are still operating can offer some excellent skiing.
Warmer days, softer snow, fewer mid-winter layers and some healthy late-season snow bases make the October school holidays a great opportunity to squeeze in a few more days on the mountain.
And judging by the way spring has been behaving this year, we certainly wouldn’t put the skis away just yet.
