The winter that was

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 3, Issue 28, 3 December 1985, Page 12

The winter that was

"People just didn't seem to have the same money as last year," said Mrs Iris Parr, of Raetihi Hotel. Mrs Parr said that those staying in their hotel during the winter didn't spend money in the bars this year. Their accommodation was full right through the season, but people did not want to spend any extra money. This year is Mr and Mrs Parr's second season at the hotel, and this one has been better than the last. They are also expecting a reasonable summer from people who are interested in activities on Wanganui River. "I think it will make a big difference to us when the river area becomes a park," she said. Ruapehu Outback Adventures in Ohakune also experienced better patronage than last year, but part-owner Sue Allomes said it was not as good as expected because there were so many fine days when the mountain was open. On closed days, a maximum of just over 100 people took advantage of the activities provided by Outback Adventures. Horse trekking was the most popular activity and white-water rafting was in *- demand during the school holidays, Sue said. This year was the first time they had provided scenic helicopter flights, which were popular for those who could afford it. On snowy days, fourwheel drive safaris were also very popular. Sue has few expectations for the summer, but she believes the cut-backs in the Tongariro National Park summer programme will have an effect on trading. "It is not good for"the town at all," she said. She believes the town has to be promoted by everyone this summer. "It can't be left to just one section of the community to promote the town." Experiencing their first winter season were Max and Ivy Spick at the Waiouru Motor Camp. Mrs Spick said they have had a good winter season

and expect a reasonably good summer with travellers passing through the town and people working on the State Highway. "I've had a really good winter," said Mrs Gwen Doble, who has been the owner of Ragtime boutique in Ohakune since May. Although she relies mainly on local trade, she said skiers provided her with good business saies. She also believes the summer programme cuts will cause big losses to the town, but is feeling positive about it herself because she hopes she will receive most of her patronage from local people. If the demand is there, she will stay open on Saturday mornings. Ruaview Skotel, Whaka-

papa Village, which is currently undergoing 'major extensions, had a good winter, according to relieving manager, Ken Brunston. Bookings are heavy around Christmas time and the extensions are due to be completed at the end of December. Due to the late starting season, Roy Turner Ski Shop in National Park missed out a little on skiers buying their season's ski gear. "If people don't buy early in the season, they don't buy at all," said manageress, Amanda Mosaed. Although the shop is closed for the summer the Mosaeds lend their climbing gear to the Lands and Survey Department to hire out to trampers.