New Zealand Daily Snow
By Mike O'Connor, Meteorologist Posted 8 months ago September 21, 2025
Spring Storms Deliver More Fresh Powder to South Island Ski Fields
Summary
Heavy rain hit the South Island over the weekend, but Southern Lakes ski fields gained 4–15cm of dense snow. Changeable, stormy spring weather continues, with fronts bringing rain, snow, and strong winds. South Island resorts will see deeper powder midweek. Up north, Mt Ruapehu faces rain, strong winds, and some snow.
Short Term Forecast
Forecast for Monday 22nd & Tuesday 23rd September
On Monday, a front will bring snow and heavy rain to the Southern Lakes, with strengthening northwest winds and falling snow levels overnight. Canterbury will experience building clouds and gale-force northwest winds, potentially impacting lift operations. Meanwhile, Mt Ruapehu will face persistent rain and strong northerly winds, which will continue into Tuesday as the front moves north, leaving fresh snow in the Southern Lakes and easing winds in Canterbury.
Forecast for Wednesday 24th to Friday 26th September
From Wednesday to Friday, the Southern Lakes will see fine mornings with brisk northwest winds, with snowfall topping up ski fields—especially Treble Cone—by 10–30 cm as fronts pass. Canterbury will enjoy mostly clear skies, with brief snow expected on Thursday as a front moves through, while Mt Ruapehu will experience ongoing rain and snow, turning wetter on lower slopes by Friday. Winds will shift from northwest to westerly or southerly at times, with strong gusts potentially affecting lift operations across the regions.
Extended Forecast
Strong westerly winds will continue into next week, bringing colder temperatures and snow. South Island ski fields may see good snowfall, with lighter amounts on Mt Ruapehu. Gale to severe gale winds are expected, especially this weekend.
Thanks for reading. The next forecast will be out on Wednesday.
Mike
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