Call for support for ski business

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 14, Issue 644, 9 July 1996, Page 1

Call for support for ski business

Candidates in the up-coming elec tion are siding with ski businesses in the wake of the eruption of Ruapehu. National Party candidate for the Taupo electorate is taking insurance companies to task over their handling of businesses' disaster insurance cover. "It's an absolute nonsense. The insurance companies are more than happy to take the premiums but are baulking at paying out," said Mr McCarthy. He said many Ruapehu business people had been told the eruption as it is does not constitute a disaster under the terms of their policies. "Many of these businesses are being seriously affected. What's the point of having this type of insurance? I would term it a disaster when the local community reports estimated losses of $9m." A support package should be put together by the government for businesses around Ruapehu affected by the continuing volcanic activity, says Tongariro MP Mark Burton. Mr Burton is the Labour candidate for the new T aupo electorate which includes much of the Ruapehu tourism area. "It should be remembered that this is the second consecutive season of serious disruption to the ski fields as a result of extraordinary volcanic activity. Locals know that they operate with a real element of risk. But no one can realistically plan for this level of disruption and potential loss." He said he called for financial, employment and promotional support measures.