Australian ski hills enjoyed larger than expected snowfalls last week, continuing a good start to the 2009 season.
Mt Hotham was bombarded with 68 cm (27 in) of fresh snow between Thursday and Saturday, allowing the resort to open more lifts. The Victoria ski hill currently has eight of thirteen lifts running.
Over the border into New South Wales, Perisher reported 70 cm (27in) of snowfall over seven days ending last Thursday. Conditions are reportedly beautiful, with wind-drifts, powder stashes, and smooth groomed runs.
The snow has allowed Perisher to open 42 of the 49 lifts spread out over its four resort areas.
Several other ski areas in Australia and New Zealand also recently reported healthy snowfalls. All of New Zealand’s ski Areas are open for the season, with Lake Wanaka reporting the best opening conditions in a decade.

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