Skilifts run for summer visitors

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 5, Issue 31, 19 January 1988, Page 5

Skilifts run for summer visitors

There may not be sufficient snow for skiing at this time of year, but it's business as usual for the staff of Ruapehu AIpine Lifts on the Whakapapa side of Mt Ruapehu. RAL's operation of the Centennial and Waterfall chairlifts over the Christmas holiday period has proved such a resounding success and so popular with visitors to the park that it will become a regular attraction, according to Ski Field Supervisor Scottie Barrie. Mr Barrie who has worked full-time for RAL since 1973, said he was very happy with the public's re-

sponse and patronage of the amenity. Users of the chairlifts have averaged around 400 a day and peaked at over 700 during the week following New Year. Mr Barrie said numbers swelled on the days that Tongariro National Park ran their Crater Lake walks, with people opting to ride the chairs up to the Knoll Ridge Cafeteria and completing the remaining 2300 feet of the ascent on foot. This way trampers cut the time to complete the trip by one third. Mr Barrie said the number of people visiting the crater lake is well up on the last three years, due chiefly to the greater ac-

cessibility provided by the chairlifts. The busiest times have proved to be between 9.30- Ilam with the lifts running until 4pm - ample time for people to make a leisurely walk to the crater lake, play in the snow or simply take in the scenic splendour of Mt Ruapehu in the summer time. Mr Barrie said RAL have experienced no problems whatsoever over the Christmas break and had a good maintenance crew who ensured there were no mechanical problems. For $10 an adult, half price for children or S25 for a family pass, visitors can ride the chairlifts that operate at a slightly s lower

pace for passenger comfort. Nevertheless, the speed of the express chair is still a hit especially with the children, according to Mr Barrie. "They love the ride - it's better than a roller coaster and cheaper too," he said. The Knoll Ridge Cafeteria will remain open for the duration of the holidays to provide light relief for hungry visitors. Mr Barrie said the feed,back from the public has been extremely favourable and positive. "We've haa people who have neyer been into the park befon and have later said it w > the best par-t of their holiday," he said.