New Zealand Resort Extends Season By Three Weeks, Christmas Skiing Likely (15-Sep-08)

Turoa, NZ, September 15, 2008 - Turoa in New Zealand, which has seen record snowfall

Turoa in New Zealand, which has seen record snowfall this southern hemisphere winter, has announced it will extend the 2008 ski season by three weeks and will now stay open until 16th November.

Mike Smith, marketing manager for the company that owns Turoa and its neighbour Whakapapa on Mt Ruapehu, says the extension is due to fantastic snow falls and weather conditions.

“Snow fell almost continuously from mid July to late August. A few weeks ago we announced that Turoa had the biggest snow base ever recorded at any New Zealand ski area (455cm) and we are happy to say the base has since grown even further and currently stands at 488cm.

“On top of this, there is snow in the forecast for mid-week which may well see Turoa hit an unheard of snow base level of five metres later this week.

“All this amazing snow has led to us making the decision to extend the season – Turoa will now stay open until Sunday 16th November, meaning there are still two whole months for skiers and boarders to enjoy some action on the slopes.

“Whakapapa will close as scheduled on Labour Weekend (Monday 27th October) but, provided the snow holds, it is very likely we will re-open Whakapapa for Christmas skiing from Boxing Day until early January 2009, meaning Kiwis can have a white Christmas without leaving the country!”

“The current snow bases and weather predictions indicate that snow cover and conditions for the upcoming September/October school holidays will be the best ever and great for both learners and experts alike, so I’d encourage families to come down and enjoy the magic conditions.”