With the metres of snow falling on Australian ski fields and the scant amount that has been received in New Zealand, Australian skiers are staying home.
Ski towns are reporting a very average season with Australians notably absent. Accommodation suppliers are claiming below average occupancy rates which could be due in part to the high value of the New Zealand dollar in combination with snow levels.
Generally most ski holidays are booked in advance of the snow falling but it is the spontaneous travellers that often supply the top up to trade. These mainly Australian skiers have some of the best snow conditions experienced at home for ten years. This coupled with a NZ dollar at post float highs has clearly got many tourist business worried for the season