Skiing can be a family affair

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 12, Issue 553, 13 September 1994, Page 2 (Supplement)

Skiing can be a family affair

Skiing ace Annelise Coberger was taught to ski by her family almost before she could walk - so it was highly appropriate that she gave Waimarama Taumaunu and her family a few tips on the slopes recently. Waimarama., one of the official Ambassadors for 1994's Intemational Year of the Family, took to the slopes with partner George and Tuakana (14 months). "We were all first-time skiers and it was also the first time Tuakana has seen snow," says Waimarama. "He had a great time and really enjoyed being pushed around on his own tiny skies." In recognition of the Intemational Yearof the Family, the New Zealand Ski Council is encouraging families to try the sport in 1994 as part of the "Salomon Learn to Ski" programme. Following the successfiil early season programme, the New Zealand Ski Council is running a second programme in early October. Designed to introduce new-comers to the sport, the programme offers a package of rental of skis, boots and poles, a beginner's lesson by a professional instructor and a day's access to the leamer's slopes for only $20 per person. During the nine-day early season programme, more than 3,000 people took to the slopes to discover the enjoyment of skiing at the 1 1 participating ski areas. Miles Davidson, executi ve director of the New Zealand Ski Council, said in the past five years, the "Salomon Learn to Ski" programme had helped more than 45,000 New Zealanders leam how to ski with 50% returning to the slopes in subsequent seasons. The spring programme startson 1 October and runs until 9 October with registrations open at ski retailers throughout the country from 5 September. The eleven ski areas hosting the programme are Whakapapa and Turoa in

the North Island and Rainbow, Mount Lyford, Porter Heights, Mount Hutt, Ohau, Cardrona, Treble Cone, Coronet Peak and The Remarkables in the South Island. Waimarama Taumaunu is one of 20 official Ambassadors appointed for the Intemational Year of the Family by the Government. A former New Zealand netball captain who played for her country for 11 years, Waimarama now works for the Hillary Commission.