Ski promotion under way

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 1, Issue 39, 20 March 1984, Page 5

Ski promotion under way

Andy Chapman, public •ations manager for Turoa ifields left New Zealand for Brisbane on 6 March to represent the Mount Ruapehu Ski Region at the Brisbane Snow Show. The Show was set up on Thursday 8 March and that night an Agents' function was held at the show to allow local travel agents and others involved with tourism to view the stands and collect information. This was particularly worthwhile as it provided an opportunity to talk about' the quality of North Island skiing and actually convince many of the agents that there are skifields in the North Island, "which many of them didn't realise!" said Mr Chapman. ^fthe response both from ^Irtravel agents and also the public in general was very encouraging.

"Turoa's name was not totally unfamiliar to many of the skiers there and it was nice to talk to some Turoa converts who had skied here last year and have already made bookings to return again in 1984," said Andy. Fashion shows, nordicskiing, ski retailers, tour operators and ski regions fro.m both Australia and New Zealand all combined to give the show an exciting atmosphere and provided an informative fun outing for all involved. Previously held in the Crest International Hotel the venue was shifted to the Brisbane City Hall in an effort to provide some more space and thus enable a much bigger show to be staged. "From the interest and excitement generated, this

move was worthwhile and I'm sure that we'll see more Australian skiers in Ohakune and skiing Ruapehu this winter." The marked difference in prices between the Australian ski resorts and the New Zealand ski areas is a determining factor in Australian skiers looking to New Zealand for their winter recreation. The average day lift price in Australia is around $20 while here in New Zealand it is less. This, combined with an exchange rate that favours Australians ($A1 = SNZ1.40) spread over a week or longer makes theprospect of skiing in New Zealand a very attractive one in budget terms.