SnowFactory installation progresses as Coronet Peak gears up for early season opening

Construction is progressing well on Coronet Peak’s new SnowFactory as NZSki gears up for a guaranteed early start to winter.

While temperatures in Queenstown reached freezing levels this week, Coronet Peak and TechnoAlpin crew have been busy up the mountain installing the $2million-plus SnowFactory, which will eventually be capable of producing 200 cubic metres of snow each day. For perspective, the SnowFactory could cover an entire rugby field with 10cm of snow in just over three days.

Cranes have been on site this week, lifting two containers in place on the ski field, which will house the SnowFactory unit. Foundation work and supporting infrastructure are also in place ahead of commissioning, which will take place next week with the help of specialist TechnoAlpin technicians travelling from Europe. All going well, snow will start to be produced from the start of May.

NZSki CEO Paul Anderson says the project is tracking well and demonstrates NZSki’s ongoing commitment to investing in its ski areas. It means that Coronet Peak will be the first New Zealand ski resort to open, earlier than ever before, every year. This year the Coronet Peak learner slopes will open on Friday, May 29.

“This is an exciting milestone for the team and for Queenstown,” Anderson says. “The SnowFactory gives us the ability to produce snow regardless of air temperature, which means we can confidently build a snow base well ahead of winter and give guests the confidence to book their ski holidays.”

The electrically-powered SnowFactory operates by freezing water and converting it into snow without chemical additives. It can use up to 96,000 litres of water per day and produce up to 200 cubic metres of snow daily.

Snow production is scheduled to begin on May 1 and, if required, is expected to run 24/7 through to mid-July, building a substantial base on the lower slopes. By the end of May, it’s expected there will be enough snow to roll out the Magic Carpets and open the flat area around the base of Meadows Chair for snow play, beginner skiing and snowboarding.

Coronet Peak ski area manager Nigel Kerr says the SnowFactory will significantly enhance the early‑season experience.

“This investment allows us to open beginner terrain earlier and with more certainty,” Kerr says. “It’s not just about skiing and riding. Snow play is hugely important for families and visitors who simply want to experience snow, and this gives us the confidence to deliver that from the very start of the season.”

The SnowFactory forms part of a wider $4 million capital works programme at Coronet Peak for 2026 and is permitted under NZSki’s Department of Conservation concession. The balance of the capital works investment has been allocated to improvements to the learner slope, groomers, rental equipment, and other snowmaking upgrades.