News

Southern Hemisphere Kicks Off

Sat 10 June 06

Mt.Hutt in New Zealand and Falls Creek in Australia opened today and next week its the turn of the South American resorts

Southern Hemisphere Kicks Off ©

New Zealand

Mt Hutt 10th June 2006 Boarders at Mt Hutt in New Zealand can look forward to an average snow base of 20 – 30 centimetres across the main trails following a succession of snowfalls and ideal snowmaking conditions.

Ski area manager Dave Wilson said that the mountain would open from the summit which had not been achievable for over 15 years.

“The Summit Six express chair from base to the top of the mountain, the Quad novice chair and magic carpet will all open on Saturday. We expect most people will stay on the groomed trails, but there is also a limited opportunity for off trail skiing and riding.”

In keeping with tradition, Mt Hutt's opening will be celebrated with bubbles served courtesy of Lindauer, and the first people on the quad and Summit Six chairlifts will receive the coveted ‘First on the Chair 2006’ T-shirts.

Mr Wilson said the ski area had a great team of people raring to get the season underway.

“We’ve got excellent conditions for first timers to get in early and learn to ski or ride and there is no better way to learn than on the Magic Carpet”

Whakapapa/Turoa are due to open next friday (16th June) complete with a new 4-seater charilift - the Tennants Express which is part of a NZ$30million 2-year redevelopment of Mt.Rauapehu

Australia

Falls Creek became the first resort to open its door this season in Australia when it opened today (10th June) but there's f*ck all snow to be found. The resort has managed to generate enough to cover the Mouse Trap magic carpet area, but thats about it (ask you can see from this shot)