Coinciding with the final weekend of the American Express Queenstown Winter Festival, the Night Skiing with Ultimate Ears party kicks off at 4pm with hundreds expected on the mountain.

DJ’s will spin tunes on the outdoor deck and refreshments will be on hand to enjoy before, after or in-between runs under the stars.

Building on last year’s big lighting investment which doubled the terrain under lights and new night freestyle features, the ‘Park after Dark’ comes back to life for 2015.

Freestyle enthusiasts will find an improved set up for the freestyle airbag, which operates during night skiing below the Coronet Express quad chair. Modifications made to the drop in and take off for the popular giant 16x11m airbag are sure to make it easier for tricksters to try out that latest flip, tuck or spin.  Big air lovers will also enjoy our newly fashioned ‘Ramp-zilla’, described by Park After Dark freestyle coach Jake McCleary as “very poppy”.

For the first night ski party, there will be heaps of Ultimate Ears speaker giveaways, the i-Heart Radio Snow Globe will be on the deck, and ZM Live pranksters Jase and PJ will be broadcasting live from a hot tub on the snow – as you do.

Following a two-hour set from 5 to 7pm from World Bar DJs Stubacca & Mr Salmon, renowned DJ and muso Mikael Wills will rock the mountain with his innovative electronic remixes and bootlegs of the international Top 40.

Adding to the vibe, the popular Corona Bar will be back in action on the deck and great night ski food specials will fuel the hungry.

Coronet Peak ski area manager Ross Copland said he was “amped” about the return of night skiing every Friday and Saturday evening.

“We really stepped it up last year with night skiing and the plan is to carry that momentum forward to this season,” he said.

“We’re the only mountain in New Zealand offering this unique night ski experience, locals and visitors just love it.

“There’s something for everyone as there’s plenty of trail options with good visibility for all levels from beginners, families and pro’s.

“The atmosphere at our opening night session as part of festival will be electric, so come and make a night of it.”

Night skiing runs Friday and Saturday nights between 4pm and 9pm every weekend from now until September 12.

Lift passes are available online at www.nzski.com. A Night Ski pass (4pm -9pm) costs $56 per adult and $35 per child with Twilight passes (12.30pm – 9pm) at $104 per adult and $59 per child.

A Queenstown season pass includes lift access during night skiing. A Night Ski season pass can be bought as an add-on to a Remarkables-only season pass for just $99.