Some Otago skifields have been closed to the public due to potential avalanche danger. Cardrona field manager Gary Husband said the skifield would keep its access road closed to discourage people from trying to travel up the mountain.

“We can’t guarantee their safety. It’s not about liability or anything. It’s just not good for people or the industry if someone ends up getting hurt or lost.”

Snow Park general manager Sam Lee said the terrain and freestyle facility had a good coating of snow, but lacked a solid base.

Hazards and hidden obstacles underneath the snow had the potential to catch out skiers and riders, he said.

Treble Cone head patroller Gordon Smith said ski patrollers had been using explosive charges to clear avalanche hazards around the skifield this week, to permit staff and contractors to carry out pre-season preparations.

The skifield is off-limits to the general public, and the access road remains closed.

Wanaka alpine skifields are insisting people stay away this weekend because of safety concerns.