Blue skies for skiers

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 11, Issue 495, 20 July 1993, Page 2

Blue skies for skiers

More blue skies and sunny conditions had skiers out in droves on the slopes of Mt Ruapehu on the weekend. Airound 5000 people enjoyed Whakapapa Skifield's groomed trails and facilities, with reports of great skiing on the upper T-Bars. The Centennial and Waterfall Chairlifts were operational for access only. Happy Valley' s beginner's facilities were operational, with plenty of groomed snow for novice skiers to enjoy. Hundreds of children enjoyed the Wizard's Fun in Happy Valley during mid-term break. Clowns and facepainting, snowman building competitions, treasure hunts and kids' barbeques were just a few

of the many activities during the week. The new Happy Valley Bistro hosted its first apres ski party last Tuesday night, with Wellington band 'Condition Red' entertaining and giving away Steinlager Blue, Champemay and Primo. At Knoll Ridge the big kids enjoyed a different type of fun, with 'Condition Red' entertaining in the new Knoll Ridge Chalet with free Steinlager Blue beer being given away at the lunch-time barbeques. The official opening of the Knoll Ridge Chalet, this Saturday 24 July at 1.30pm, will be officiated by Prime Minister Jim Bolger, skifield dignitaries and invited guests.

Turoa Turoa Ski Resort, open since 25 June, is still enjoying glorious skiing from top to bottom. Promotions manager Rob Jewell said approximately 5000 people flocked to the slopes on the weekend. All facilities were operational with the exception of one learner's platter lift. The Moro Race T-Bar that was buried all last season is fully operational, with extensive rock grooming taking place all over the mountain to ensure a good cover on all main trails. This weekend the Diet Pepsi Junior Race Series is being staged, as well as the Movenpick Icecream '2-for-l' voucher giveaways.