Last Day For Mt Ruapehu Season Monday 22 October

Immediate release:18 October 2007

Last Day For Mt Ruapehu Season Monday 22 October

-Good snow cover remains for last weekend-

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts (operator of Mt Ruapehu) announced today that both the Whakapapa and Turoa skifields will close for the season on Monday 22 October.

Mike Smith, Mt Ruapehu marketing manager says the 2007 season has been a challenging one due to unsettled weather patterns, however, there has been some great snow as well.

'We've still got great snow cover, so skiing and boarding should be great this Labour Weekend," says Mr Smith. "The long range forecast for after Labour Weekend is not hugely positive, which is the main reason why we've made the decision to close a few days earlier than anticipated," says Mr Smith.

"It's been an interesting season with the varied weather patterns but, at the same time, we've had fantastic snow conditions and some great visitor numbers. Despite the changeable weather, this season we posted a new record for the busiest weekend, and week, outside of the school holidays which is great news.

"In addition, we launched the new High Noon Express high-speed chairlift in June, as well as a huge new snowmaking system and the new Alpine Café facility. It's been a great year, and we're already looking forward to next year's season."

ENDS

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