New Zealand ski scene gets a makeover
New Zealand ski areas announce new developments for 2009 winter season.
Queenstown's ski areas of Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, plus Canterbury ski area Mt Hutt have announced new developments for the 2009 winter season including upgrades to children's facilities, rental equipment, access roads, snow groomers, and base lodge amenities.
Famous for its family fun environment and multiple terrain parks, The Remarkables ski area 40 minutes from Queenstown, will introduce free transfers to and from town with any lift ticket purchase, and big news for those on a self drive holiday are the new barriers being strategically placed along 3.6kms of the access road. This initiative will give confidence to those not familiar with driving on New Zealand's high alpine mountain roads.
Up on the slopes skiers and boarders will find the ground level of the base building at The Remarkables fully renovated, with improved children's facilities and easier access to the Guest Services department, while two new snow groomers will enhance surface conditions in the parks and on the trails.
Building on from last year's $30 million dollar investment in a new base facility and world class snowmaking system, Coronet Peak ski area only 20 minutes from Queenstown, has continued to invest for the 2009 season. Two new state-of-the-art snow groomers have been purchased to improve on-trail conditions, while the dedicated children's ski slope will be doubled in size and feature a new 24 metre Sun Kid surface conveyor lift, designed for very young beginners.
Both The Remarkables and Coronet Peak fully licensed Skiwiland Early Learning Centres will be upgraded this season to cater for babies as young as three months old, and the Snow Sport School at both mountains has added new full day kids ski school programs for 6 to 17 year olds from 10am to 4pm, with lunch included.
Mt Hutt ski area in the Canterbury area outside Christchurch, has also improved facilities and programmes for children, and will see the addition of an entirely new ski rental system designed by Head, promising to deliver better skis faster for those renting equipment. Mt Hutt will also add to its fleet of snow groomers with three new bigger machines, plus new snowmaking compressors to help produce more snow and improved trails.
While the ski areas are not scheduled to open until the June long weekend, early bird deals have been launched by Australia's leading ski wholesalers with holiday packages discounted for early bookings and payment by 30 April.
Provided by NZ Ski.
May skiing and riding on the cards for Mt Hutt
Skiers and riders can look forward to hitting New Zealand's Mt Hutt ski resort later this month, as ski area staff work to open two weeks ahead of schedule for the first time in at least ten years.
Mt Hutt has received more than 170cm of snow over the past 12 days resulting in a 110cm snow base and a decision to work towards a Queen's Birthday weekend opening on Saturday 30 May (conditions permitting).
It's the best early snow the ski area has had in decades, according to Dave Wilson, Ski Area Manager for Mt Hutt.
"We've got awesome snow conditions so have decided to open early for some May skiing. But it's been a big call to make," he said. "There are huge logistics involved in opening a ski area ahead of schedule."
Mr Wilson said the mountain crew would be working around the clock to bring their original schedule forward.
"We need to ensure our suppliers can meet our deadlines, go through all of our health and safety checks and ensure we have enough staff to provide the best possible snow experience from opening day.
"A lot of staff have changed their plans to get here early which is humbling. We're also bringing in staff from our sister mountains (Coronet Peak and The Remarkables) in Queenstown to help us out."
Mr Wilson said the Summit Six Chairlift, the Quad Chair and the Magic Carpet would be operating for the early opening and that the Triple Chair would open in the following weeks, snow dependant.
"Our outlook for a 30 May opening is positive as long as conditions remain favourable and the weather permits on the day," he said.
Book your trip
Hot Snow Holiday Deals
As ski enthusiasts get ready to hit the slopes, here are some great winter deals on premium accommodation in Queenstown, making this winter an ideal time to get some winter sports action.
The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments
Stay 7 nights and pay for 6!
Book and travel now until 31 July 2009
Sofitel Hotel & Spa
Stay 8 nights and pay for 6!
Book now until 31 August for travel from 01 June until 31 August 2009
Millbrook Resort
Stay 5 nights and pay for 4!
Book and travel now until 30 September 2009
Rydges Lakeland Resort
Stay 3 nights and get 30% off your stay!
Book from 01 June until 30 June for travel from 01 June until 30 July 2009
For these and other great Queenstown holiday deals, visit Expedia.com.au.
Ski Holiday Tips
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Be prepared Organisation is the key. Book accommodation and hire equipment early to avoid disappointment. |
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Take a Lesson Skiing lessons with a professional instructor are a great way to learn and improve (and it's fun)! |
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Bring a good book There is no better way to relax than curled up in front of a fireplace with a cup of hot chocolate and a book. |
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Rest and drink water It will keep you hydrated and provide you can absorb the amazing views while doing so. |
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Talk to the locals Get in the know by asking around. Locals know where all the great pubs and powder stashes are. |