With more snow forecast tonight, the 2009 southern ski season is expected to make the perfect start when Coronet Peak opens on Saturday.
Ski area manager Hamish McCrostie said snow-making conditions had been ideal for much of this week, with the early natural snowfall combining to build a base of 80cm at the top of the mountain and 50cm on the trails at the base.
“This is one of our better openings for a long, long time. There’s been great natural snow and good snow-making conditions for the past couple of days.” …Â Details
It’s not just James Packer who can own a ski resort. Craig Tansley discovers New Zealand’s best runs are family owned and operated.
In Mackenzie Country, skiing isn’t the domain of the well-heeled; it’s just for anybody who ever put a pair of skis on and felt like a child all over again.
‘I’m a mechanic by trade but I bought a couple of bulldozers and made a ski field. My wife helped me and my boys. We used to be in a ski club but there were too many committees …Â Details
This is a compilation of skateboarding, snowboarding, mt. biking, wakeboarding, surfing video from 1994 – 2005
Â
Despite the economic downturn the ski industry has been given a lift with predictions of an “Aussie invasion†adding millions to the economy.
One of those ski fields reaping the benefits is Mount Hutt – today enjoying its earliest opening in over ten years.
The first ski field to open in the Southern Hemisphere was packed as a one metre snow base and perfect conditions ensured over 2000 skiers got a good run for their money.
“Oh this is amazing,†says skier Jane Innes. “I just can’t believe that we’re actually here and it’s May. I’m not awake yet – this is incredible.
“In 35 years skiing here it’s probably one of the best starts… Details