Two '92 seasons for Turoa skiers

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 457, 13 October 1992, Page 1

Two '92 seasons for Turoa skiers

Turoa will have two ski seasons this year, with the announcement that they are re-opening on 7 November for a special summer ski season. The Diet Pepsi Turoa Festive Ski Season will see the field open from 9am to 3pm on weekends, through to Boxing Day, then daily through to 10 January. The decision is unprecedented since Turoa opened in 1978, though the field did stay open until late November one year in the early 1980s. Response from local business people at the announcement, which was made at a function at Turoa Lodge last Thursday, was quite positive. "It's got to be good for the town - good on Turoa for giving it a go," said one motellier. "Thc cxtension to the

ski season has been brought about by the public demand," said Turoa general manager Angus Grimwade. "Many local business people have been vying for an extended season and are very supportive of continuing our operation through spring and into summer." As well as the novelty of skiing on Ruapehu in summer, a strong attraction will be the free skiing for children if they take aPepsi or Diet Pepsi can to the resort. Special prices have been introduced for other skiers - $30 a day for ad'ults and students. 1992 season passes will not be valid for the special season. "This is a separate ski season and unfortunately it would not be financially viable for us to accept winter season passes," said Mr Grimwade. "We

have extended the winter ski season from 26 October to 1 November, so they will get a little extra for their passes." Lifts operating through

the summer season will be the Movenpick Chairlift for access, the Giant Chairlift, the High Noon T Bar and beginner platter lifts where snow allows. "We are committed to

this special season. The only thing that will cut it short is if we loose the snow base," said Mr Grimwade. At present the snow base is over three metres.