Weather permitting, beginner ski trails on Mt Ruapehu should open next week, in time for the school holidays.
The opening of the Whakapapa and Turoa ski areas has been delayed due to lack of snow.
"The forecast for the next week includes a low pressure system coming through on Thursday night, which could bring up to 15cm of natural snow on our upper slopes," Ruapehu Alpine Lifts chief executive Dave Mazey said.
"This will be followed by cold, clear conditions through the weekend, which will provide for great snowmaking on the lower slopes.
"We are optimistic this weather pattern will enable us to open beginner trials at both ski areas next week and on time for the school holidays.
"We've already had two reasonable snowfalls so we have a base on the upper mountain. We expect that with one or two more heavy snowfalls we will be able to open for intermediate and advanced skiing at both Whakapapa and Turoa."
Mr Mazey said they understood the delayed opening was "disappointing" for customers, but "the teams at both ski areas are all trained and ready to go as soon as conditions allow."
Visitors to Whakapapa can ride the ski area's newest lifT, the Rangatira Express, along with the Waterfall Express lift for sightseeing to New Zealand's highest cafe, the Knoll Ridge Cafe.
The Whakapapa ski area will be open for sightseeing from Saturday.