Mt Cheeseman Introduces new operational model for winter 2026

Winter 2025 was one of the most challenging seasons in recent memory for New Zealand's club ski fields. At Mt Cheeseman, lifts turned for just a few days.

Shorter seasons and increasingly unpredictable snowfall are reshaping the economics of club ski fields across the country. Fixed costs remain. Compliance requirements remain. Maintenance remains.

Fact: The 2026 season is scheduled to run from Friday 17 July to Sunday 27 September, but operations will be concentrated from Thursday to Sunday each week. Monday to Wednesday will remain closed, reducing staffing and operational overheads. Up to three targeted ski weeks in August will run Tuesday to Saturday, provided minimum participation numbers are met.

Committee and operational teams are focusing on preserving long-term viability while still delivering quality on-snow experiences when conditions align.

Monday to Wednesday will remain closed, reducing staffing and operational overheads.

Fact: The 2026 season is scheduled to run from Friday 17 July to Sunday 27 September, but operations will be concentrated from Thursday to Sunday each week. Monday to Wednesday will remain closed, reducing staffing and operational overheads. Up to three targeted ski weeks in August will run Tuesday to Saturday, provided minimum participation numbers are met.