The Remarkables ski area in Queenstown will celebrate its fifteenth birthday in style when it opens for the 2000 season this Saturday.
For opening day only, skiers and snowboarders can buy a NZ$15 day lift pass, and Frequent Card holders will pay NZ$5 for a lift pass. Children age ten andunder already receive a free day lift pass at The Remarkables.
Manager Hamish McCrostie said the ski area was opening with all lifts and trails up and running - the first time that has happened since 1996.
Sugar Bowl, Shadow Basin, the Alta chair and the beginners area will all be open, and snowmakers have been busy on the Alta Green novice trail and beginners area. The Homeward runs for more experienced skiers and riders will also operate.
The ski area is opening a week earlier than planned due to heavy early snow. Mr McCrostie said there was an average metre base of natural snow on all main trails. The ski area received a 10-15cm top up of snow over the weekend and Mr McCrostie said there were lots of off piste opportunities on wind-packed new snow.
"It's looking good, a really wintry scene," he said. "We're in great shape for the start of the season and for the school holidays.
"We've been holding final staff training this week and everyone's raring to go."
Facilities including the café, ski and snowboard school, equipment rental and the Sno Shop will open from this weekend.
The children's creche will open on July 1 in time for the school holidays.
