Ohau Snowfields, New Zealand Report: When Fresh Snow and Sunshine Align

Paulie | | Post Tag for Conditions ReportConditions Report
Fresh tracks, thanks to fresh snow. Photo: P.M.Fadden

Report from August 21, 2023

From the start, word from the ‘weather watch’ camps around Ohau Snowfields had been promising: fresh snow expected, clear sky to follow.

It’s worth recognizing the power of those seven little words. In this case, they packed a joy punch that was off the charts.

The ‘joy-punch’ Photo: P.M.Fadden

We arrived at picturesque Ohau Snowfields at the pace of a morning coffee: prepped with care, presented with love, and enjoyed to the very last drop. The lasting effects of that goodness would ripple through the whole day.

The prior day’s fresh snow had closed access to Ohau’s Ridgeline; until now. A wall of fresh snow, as wide as a head can rotate, lay waiting.

The ridge at Ohau Snowfields; a crystal treasure if ever there was one. Photo: P.M.Fadden

Chalk it up to eager anticipation, but the ascending hike up Ohau’s steep ridge felt relatively short this morning. It seemed as though we were up there in a blink.

Below us unfurled a long carpet of soft, shimmering white.

Time slowed down for this one; it was a treat from top-to-bottom. Photo: P.M.Fadden

Vertical lanes of gentle wind accumulation skied like a dream. It was evenly textured, delightful to look upon, and infinitely ripple.

Photo Highlight

These days highlight the unique nature of a ski experience at Ohau Snowfields. We are lucky to be present when fresh snow and sunshine align.

Extended Forecast


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