Thousands of South Island locals have packed southern ski fields, after this season's biggest snowfall.
Coronet Peak has received a heavy dusting of snow. Photo: Supplied
Coronet Peak reached capacity under Covid level 2 restrictions before 9am this morning, with queues of cars until midday.
About 2000 people are allowed on the mountain, almost half the usual number.
Coronet Peak ski area manager Nigel Kerr said since the heavy snowfall earlier this week, skiers had been in a mad rush to get to the mountain.
Crowds on Coronet Peak. Photo: Supplied
This created a morning bottleneck at the entrance and some visitors had to wait about an hour to get in, he said.
"They are all here now... and the road is flowing freely and everybody is having an amazing day."
Kerr said it was a shame more people could not enjoy the "perfect ski conditions", but Covid restrictions required safe social distances.
It had been a difficult season, but the ski field was grateful to be open and wanted to stay that way, he said.
The Remarkables ski field opens tomorrow, giving more skiers a chance to make the most of a frosty start to Spring - and taking the pressure off Coronet Peak.