Generally, ski resorts in Australia begin opening in late May after huge pre-season snowfalls. While the past two seasons were mostly canceled due to several lockdowns in Australia, international travel restrictions have eased and the ski season will soon be back in full swing. For example, Selwyn Ski area will reopen in late May after being closed for reconstruction.
Snowfall in Australia
While Australia's bumper snow season is a boon to the ski industry, there is one troubling trend to watch. While the overall snow depth in Australia is still high, the average amount of snowfall per year has decreased by ten per cent since 1962. This trend means shorter snow seasons and drier weather overall. This means that shoulder seasons will likely be cheaper than peak seasons.
The Australian ski season lasts from June to October, and snowfall is an average of 40 inches per year. Snowfall varies according to latitude, elevation, and proximity to the ocean. Snowfall in the Australian Alps is most common in southern Victoria and Tasmania, and at Thredbo Alpine Village, the snow depth is optimal at two inches (five cm). The average snow depth at the base of a mountain is between two and three inches.
In addition to a massive amount of snow, Australia has great weather conditions for skiing, boarding, and snowboarding. The first day of the Australian ski season could bring up to a metre of snow in high traffic areas. Some ski resorts in Victoria have already opened, while in New Zealand, Mt Hutt and Cardrona have been delayed until next week due to insufficient snowfall.
Cost of Skiing in Australia
Skiing in Australia has always been expensive for the average Aussie. Inflation, interest rates and other competing priorities can all push up the cost, and some people have jobs or other priorities that prevent them from planning a ski holiday in advance. The good news is that the cost of skiing in Australia is not increasing in off-peak periods.
The cost of a lift ticket varies from resort to resort. A single day pass is often more expensive than a multi-day pass. If you plan to ski for more than seven days, it's better to buy a season pass. Season passes go on sale a few months before the ski season. Buying a season pass allows you to ski at multiple resorts in Australia and around the world. It also comes with additional perks, such as discounts for friends and 20% off lessons and gear rentals.
Lift tickets are probably the biggest expense of a ski holiday, and a single day can cost up to $130. Luckily, Australian ski resorts offer a variety of activities that you can do in between skiing. Some ski resorts have cross-country skiing and tobogganing fields, and you can go hiking in national parks while you're there. Another option is to lounge by the fire at the ski lodge.
Best Time to Go Skiing in Australia
The peak ski season in Australia typically lasts from early June to early October, but there have been some notable exceptions in recent years. Snowfall can continue to fall until late July in some ski resorts. If you're a beginner skier, consider taking on a challenge in the off-peak months, when conditions are best and prices are low.
With the emergence of the winter snowboarding scene in the US, Australian skiers have more choices than ever before. In many areas of the country, there are resorts open three months a year, and Australia has an increasing number of resorts. According to the Australian Ski Areas Association, the country's ski resorts are competitive and can hold their own on the world stage. Here are some tips for planning your ski holiday in Australia:
Weekends are typically crowded and expensive, so try to go during the week. This will not only give you a more enjoyable skiing experience, but you'll also spend less money. On average, adult ski tickets cost 18% less during the week than on the weekend. This can add up to savings of $15 to $40 per person.
Cost of Skiing in Australia Compared to New Zealand
For a comparison of the cost of skiing in New Zealand and Australia, there are several factors to consider. Both countries have ski resorts. However, some are more expensive than others. In Australia, an adult day pass to Queenstown is $169, while an adult lift ticket to Coronet Peak is $218. While both countries offer great skiing, some ski areas are more expensive than others.
Snow season in Australia runs from early June to early October, but the "official opening" of ski season does not always coincide with adequate snow cover. Because the seasons in Australia are shorter, it is recommended to book your ski holiday well in advance. The cost of skiing in New Zealand is significantly cheaper than in Australia.
While ski resorts in Australia are cheaper, Australians should also consider the cost of accommodation. Getting a good deal on accommodation and lift tickets can save you a lot of money. Accommodation costs are lower in Australia than in New Zealand, and travel with friends can also help you save money on accommodation.