9 September 2011

Fresh snow and spring conditions in Mackenzie Country perfect right now

Fantastic spring snow conditions and a solid lineup of events means the winter sports season in the stunning Mt Cook Mackenzie region is in full swing with plenty going on to inspire and entertain visitors.

Fresh snow (10cm and counting) at Ohau Snow Fields has set it up perfectly for this weekend’s (September 10/11) legendary fancy dress Ohau Snow Ball and continuing party on the ski field. Next weekend (September 17/18) young skiers and riders won’t want to miss a special Gromfest at Roundhill while a celebration of all things rugby takes place at Mt Dobson.

The Dynaster CHILL Gromfest at Roundhill features Dual racing and Slopestyle on the weekend of September 17/18 for 6-12 year olds – a fabulously fun event that builds confidence and skill for young skiers and riders while parents ski or ride or simply relax in the sun.

’10 Below Rugby in the Snow’ is a seven-a-side men’s and mixed team’s tournament that scrums down on a flat-ish spot at Mt Dobson ski area on September 17. All comers are welcome and to sweeten the deal there are great raffle prizes including two scenic flights from Air Safaris. A BBQ will sizzle away to provide sustenance for players and spectators. Funds raised will go towards the Christchurch Earthquake recovery.

For families, hurtling down a snow tubing slope or ice skating at Lake Tekapo’s famous Alpine Springs is a local definition of fun. The rink is perfectly iced and the Snow Tubing slope has a brand new magic carpet to make access easy. After the fun, unwinding in the hot pools is magical.

For those who’d rather just absorb the majesty of this spectacular region, there is amazing skiing on the Tasman Glacier and superb heli-skiing with Southern Alps Guiding in the Ben Ohau ranges.

Winter marketing manager Prue Blake says early spring is a great time to visit the Mackenzie.

“The snow is superb at this time of year and the experience for visitors to our region is entirely different than anywhere else. Our mountains are high and spectacular, there are no crowds, the hospitality is incredibly warm and there’s a wide range of activity that takes advantage of our natural gifts.”

ENDS

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