Future of skiing with newcomers

Ruapehu Bulletin, 13 April 1993, Page 7

Future of skiing with newcomers

First time skiers are the future of the ski industry, according to ongoing market research conducted by Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. Whakapapa Skifields* First Timer Packs, offering beginners a full day's hire of skis, boots and poles, lesson and all-day lift pass for Happy Valley, have enjoyed increasing popularity, with saies of 10,727 in 1990 jumping to 14,095 in 1992.

Subsequent ongoing development at Whakapapa will see the construction of a new bistro at Happy Valley during the summer, to be located to the east of the access chairlift. The new cafeteria will include seating for 120 on two levels, with an additional deck seating 100. The structure will be a mirror image of the ski rental building constructed during the 1991/92 summer season. Bruce Road An application has

been lodged with the Department of Conservation for Ruapehu Alpine Lifts to operate a chain-fitting and rental service on all days of restricted driving on the Bruce Road. The service will rent and fit chains for skiers, who may, if desired, have their own chains fitted for them. A four-wheel drive truck has been purchased for use by the skifield, for more effective grit laying on the road, alleviating icy conditions and improving traffic

flows. The company has also ordered a new 200hp tractor to provide a more reliable and faster snow clearing capability. Another courtesy coach is likely to be purchased, adding to the existing fleet of buses and allowing an effective shuttle service around the carparks. Prior to next season a further 200 tarsealed carparks will be installed at the Top 'O the Bruce. Cost of improvements to the Bruce Road and carparking service are estimated in excess of $600,000.