Demand For Ski Holidays

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31098, 29 June 1966, Page 2

Demand For Ski Holidays

The demand for ski holidays at Coronet Peak is constantly increasing and considerable overseas Interest has been shown in the idea, according to the sales manager of the Mount Cook and Southern Lakes Tourist Company (Mr E. G. Beckett). Mr Beckett said the snowfields near Queenstown were rapidly earning the reputation as the finest in the southern hemisphere. "Already more than 50 firm bookings for the holidays had been received from overseas. Most inquiries had come from Australia, New Caledonia, the United States and Pacific Islands.

Mr Beckett said most inquiries from within New Zealand had come from the North Island. Sufficient snow for good ski-ing had fallen only last week-end, although it had fallen much earlier in most other parts of the country.

“We are never too greatly concerned,” Mr Beckett said. “It always comes in time for the opening of the season on July 1. There has only been one year when there wasn’t enough for suitable ski conditions.

Heavy snow has also fallen in the Mount Cook area during the last week. The Tourist Department will arrange special dine and dance week-ends from next week.