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New car dealership launches ‘showcase’ site in Queenstown

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 13:06:48 +1300

New car dealership Queenstown Motor Group, representing a multi-million-dollar investment into Queenstown, is on target to open its doors just before Christmas.

As the four-month build draws to a close, the new dealership’s preparing to carry major new 4WD brands Audi, Volkswagen and Subaru plus a range of near-new and used cars for buyers in Queenstown, Wanaka, Southern Lakes and Central Otago regions.

Queenstown Motor Group managing director Ken Cummings said the move reflected his belief and huge growth in the region.

He said the company was delighted with the standard and quality of workmanship in the new showroom, created by local firm Rilean Construction and local architect David Stringer of David Stringer Architects Ltd.

“It’s a very much more high profile, client friendly and larger site than our existing sister service site in the Glenda Drive industrial area,” said Mr Cummings.

“With its very central location, high visibility and in an area that attracts a large number of locals, it’s going to be a real showcase site for us.

“We’re on target for a soft opening next Monday December 19 when our current service clients will have a smooth transition to the new site thanks to After-Sales Manager Mark White and his team.”

Mr Cummings has more than 38 years’ experience in the motor industry with Southern Motor Court and Southern Honda in Dunedin, and Southern Automobiles and Southland Honda in Invercargill.

New Dealer Principal Duncan Wright, who worked for twenty years in a European franchise dealership in Christchurch, will be arriving back from overseas on Wednesday 28th December to run the new complex.

Queenstown’s cycle tourism cranks up for summer

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 11:56:44 +1300

The Southern Hemisphere’s hottest biking destination is gearing up for summer with trails guaranteed to spin everyone’s wheels, from beginners to extreme bikers.

New and improved trails around Queenstown offer a host of world-class terrain across hills, mountains, tracks and bike parks, from easy scenic rides to adrenaline-pumping downhill, cross-country, freestyling, and heli-biking.

Now extended to an eight-month season, New Zealand’s first gondola-assisted ‘bike lift’ has opened up a whole new dimension for mountain bikers in the heart of Queenstown. Riders can load their bikes onto the iconic Skyline Gondola and enjoy panoramic lake and mountain views as they’re lifted high above Queenstown to the new bike park. Here there are more than 30km of trails ranging from fast groomed tracks to rock gardens and natural single tracks, with runs graded green, blue and black for beginners, intermediates and advanced riders.

Back road cycling over at Walter Peak has also been extended, running from October to April. The trip, which can be done independently or in small guided groups, begins with an unforgettable 45-minute cruise across the lake aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship. Riders can then cycle part or all of the spectacular 55km trail from Walter Peak high country farm to Mavora Lakes.

Another increasingly popular pastime is exploring some of Central Otago’s vineyards by bike. Take a leisurely pedal down scenic back roads and on the new 8.5km River Trail through the spectacular Gibbston valley, stopping off at award-winning wineries along the way. Or take a ‘cycle de vine’ guided tour on a comfortable cruiser to see the vines that grow some of the world’s best pinot noir. Taste the end result at cellar doors and meet some of the wine makers.

The new Manse Road trail, 20 minutes’ drive from Queenstown, is an easy way to explore picturesque Arrowtown and its historic Chinese Village. Another option specially developed for families is Jardine Park which connects to stunning lakeside trails around Kelvin Heights Peninsula and out to Jacks Point.

With more than 400km of trails across five mountain ranges, Queenstown offers the most heli-bike options in the world. Heli-biking is a great opportunity for riders to experience amazing descents and epic scenery on a trip tailored to suit their ability.

To make biking around Queenstown easy, experienced bike operators and rental providers offer a range of hire packages and guided tour options, whether it’s for an hour or a multi-day trip.

The surge in biking popularity has also promoted some new events and the return of firm favourites.

Biking season gears up before Christmas with a Family Bike Jam, the Wakatipu Trail Blazer and a Dirt Jump Opening Jam. At Easter, the Queenstown Mountain Bike Festival returns for its second year with a number of serious and fun events for all capabilities, while the brand new Orion Health GODZone Adventure race, 7-14 April, will be a multi-day, non-stop, expedition-style adventure race for serious athletes.

Destination Queenstown CEO Tony Everitt said biking was fast becoming recognised by national and international visitors as a great way of getting out and enjoying what Queenstown has to offer.

“Whatever your ability and wherever you go there’s amazing scenery and experiences. You can cycle between towns, vineyards or golf courses, go heli-biking, take to the parks for downhill action and technical riding or just have some fun with the kids. Add to that our huge range of activities, award-winning food and wine, vibrant social scene, day spa options, and accommodation to suit all budgets, and people can build their perfect holiday,” he said.

Influential travel authority Lonely Planet has chosen New Zealand’s Southern Lakes region of Queenstown, Lake Wanaka and Fiordland as one of the world’s Top 10 Regions to visit in 2012 for its year-round activities and spectacular scenery.

Take a hike and explore Queenstown this summer

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:43:19 +1300

With its world renowned multi-day hiking tracks and walking trails now open for summer, Queenstown is buzzing with visitors keen to explore the magnificent scenery.

New this season is the spectacular 8.5km Gibbston River Trail which takes in stunning views framed by the Kawarau River on one side and Gibbston vineyards on the other, with easy access to prominent wineries and historic and archaeological sites.

Another popular new walk just 20 minutes’ drive from Queenstown is the Manse Road trail which provides an easy way to explore picturesque Arrowtown and the historic Chinese Village. Ten minutes away, the 8km Lake Hayes Loop offers 360-degree lake and mountain views and stunning lakeside picnic spots.

Queenstown’s surrounds are also a haven for more adventurous hikers with a number of New Zealand’s Great Walks, such as the world-famous Milford, Hollyford, Routeburn, Dart/Rees, Caples and Greenstone tracks, within a short driving distance of Queenstown. Some have guided options with the luxury of showers, beds and three-course meals, or can be walked independently using Department of Conservation huts or campsites which need to be booked well in advance.

Mr Everitt said Queenstown was considered one of New Zealand’s most popular walking and hiking destinations and, together with its range of activities, provided the perfect mix of action and relaxation for an unforgettable summer holiday.

“With dawn as early as 5am and dusk settling around 10pm, the long days and evenings are perfect for enjoying the outdoor lifestyle, diversity of landscapes and vast range of things to do.

“It’s easy to fit in a solid day’s walk and then come back and enjoy all that the town has to offer or, alternatively, do a multi-day hike and tack on a few extra days for some time out. If you’re after adrenaline pumping action there’s a multitude of world-renowned adventure activities to choose from or there are plenty of more leisurely pursuits like spa treatments, a round of golf or a tour of award-winning wineries to sample local produce and some of the world’s finest pinot noir.”

Millbrook named New Zealand and Australasia’s leading golf resort

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 12:28:13 +1300

Queenstown’s five-star Millbrook Resort has been lauded as New Zealand and Australasia’s leading golf resort at an awards ceremony hailed as ‘the Oscars of the travel industry’.

The multi-award-winning resort has picked up many major accolades in recent months, including being named the ‘World’s Best Golf Resort’ by a prestigious Australian travel magazine in April, and winning this award for the second year in a row.

Millbrook won the latest prestigious titles at the World Travel Awards 2011 Asia & Australasia ceremony held in Bangkok, Thailand earlier this week (Wednesday September 28).

After months of intense voting featuring more than 2,000 organisations, nominees across all divisions were whittled down to an elite few, including tourism heavy hitters such as Raffles Hotels & Resorts, Cathay Pacific, Mandarin Oriental, Qantas Airways and The Ritz Carlton.

Millbrook Director of Golf Brian Spicer said the award placed Millbrook among the elite golf resorts of the world and recognised its highest standards of course design and delivery, as well as Millbrook’s standing as one of the most scenic golf courses in the world.

“Our new 27-hole championship course with three interchangeable nines has been a huge success with visitors and locals alike,” he said.

“People come from all around the world to play at Millbrook and never cease to be amazed by the sheer beauty of the course, surrounded by the mountain ranges of The Remarkables and Coronet Peak, and the dramatic terrain that challenges all levels of players.

“Golfers have the option to play three separate ‘nines’, choosing from The Remarkables Nine, Coronet Nine and Arrow Nine or a differing combination of the three, where any two out of the three 'nines' can be played together.

“The awards reflect the fact that our recent multi-million-dollar investment in the golf course and its outstanding facilities, including our innovative covered driving range converted from a former woolshed, has been recognized by visitors who play some of the best courses around the world.”

Mr Spicer said Millbrook Resort offered some of the very best golfing in New Zealand, located alongside its multi-award-winning boutique hotel with a range of luxury accommodation, an award-winning day spa, conference venues, and range of restaurants.

Millbrook joins a prestigious list of Australasian winners of the World Travel Awards 2011 such as Air New Zealand, the French Polynesian resort of Bora Bora and Sydney’s Sheraton on the Park, all of whom now progress to the World Final in Doha, Qatar on November 29.

Votes are cast globally by industry professionals in over 1,000 different categories.

Coronet Peak stays open for another week!

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 12:00:30 +1300

Coronet Peak ski area will extend its opening dates for skiers and boarders to enjoy an extra week of skiing and riding, thanks to fantastic spring snow conditions.

Coronet Peak was originally scheduled to close this weekend but will now stay open until Sunday, October 9 (conditions permitting of course). At this time of year we would normally only have one mountain open in Queenstown and the conditions at Coronet Peak are currently better than at The Remarkables. This means that The Remarkables will bring its closing date forward and will now shut this Sunday, October 2 at 4pm.

The annual Spring Carnival at The Remarks and the Streets Mini Shred will be shifted to Coronet Peak on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 October. For a full line up of activities have a look at our events calendar.

For all the terrain park addicts out there we will be moving some features over to Coronet Peak for the final week.

The Remarkables season pass holders do not fear, your season’s pass will be valid at Coronet Peak between Monday 3 & Sunday 9 October.

Because the School holidays have been shifted due to the RWC and the Queenstown mountains will be closed for much of them we would like to give families the chance to get at least one weekend on the mountains. Youths (17years and under) will be free at Coronet Peak on Saturday 8 & Sunday 9.

Conditions at Mt Hutt are awesome and the mountain is on track to stay open until its scheduled close date - Sunday 16 October.

So with all this in mind - plus some of the great events left on the mountains - there is really no excuse not to get out and enjoy the last few weeks of the 2011 season!

See you up there.

Float Planes to add to Queenstown Bay attractions

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:30:21 +1200

Pilot Brent Collins has lodged plans with Lakes Environmental that could result in a thoroughly refurbished 1950s era, seven-seater (plus pilot) De Havilland Beaver and a modern Cessna float plane offering flightseeing and transfers on Lakes Wakatipu, Wanaka and Hawea by summers’ end.

The float planes are to be moored near the Queenstown Gardens and passengers transferred by water taxi from the Convelle wharf at Earnslaw Park. From the mooring, a plane will taxi (less noise than a jetboat in the bay) to its ‘air strip’ located at least 1.2km from the mooring, which is more than 800m south of the tip of the Garden’s peninsula from where it will take off and land. There will be a similar ‘strip’ located at Glenorchy, again located suitably far off shore to prevent any noise issues. Also applied for are occasional landings and takeoffs on Lake Wanaka and Hawea and in Frankton Arm.

Mr. Collins acknowledged a group had formed to oppose the operation but asked that people consider the application carefully.

“Float planes are part of alpine and lake tourism environments the world over and add something pretty special to a waterfront and to the visitor experience,” he said. “I would ask that people read the application thoroughly because we’ve put a lot of work in to ensure our activity adds to the vibrancy of the waterfront without causing disruption or congestion.”

While there is no float plane currently operating on Lake Wakatipu, the proposed mooring near the Gardens used to be home to a tourist float plane while another has operated from the Frankton beach area.

The project has been nearly 3 years in the planning and there has been consultation with many people, including identified affected parties. Mr Collins has worked to mitigate all concerns that have arisen.

“Generally, people are supportive. The feeling is that a float plane has something to add to the Bay. Especially an historic plane with potential for future links to other historic transport such as TSS Earnslaw and Kingston Flyer. However, we do understand people’s primary concern is about potential noise levels. We believe this could only present an issue for 20 – 25 seconds during take-off which we have fully mitigated by locating our take off area more than a kilometre from town. I strongly believe these planes are well suited to this environment in terms of noise and that people will not be adversely affected,” he said.

The noise generated by the float planes is within the guidelines of the district plan and flight plans do not take planes over the town or populated areas.

“We are very happy to discuss our application with people and ask that they get in touch with their concerns. We have established a facebook page where we hope we can help answer questions for people if they’d rather not get in touch directly.”

Full details of the application, which Mr Collins requested be publicly notified, are available at Lakes Environmental offices in Queenstown’s Shotover Street http://www.qldc.govt.nz/public_notices/article/1147/ or QLDC offices in Ardmore Street Wanaka and submissions are invited until September 28, 2011.

The facebook page can be found at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Queenstown-Float-Planes/261555107208902.

Coronet and Remarkables in Glorious Springtime

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 17:02:10 +1200

Coronet Peak and The Remarkables ski areas in Queenstown and Canterbury’s Mt Hutt are reveling in winter snow conditions while enjoying glorious early spring weather.

New snow arrived to top up the trails at all three ski areas last week – perfect timing for spring skiing throughout September and into October.

All three areas are reporting good numbers of skiers, boarders and families throughout the season and the latest top up – of 14cm at The Remarkables, 8cm at Mt Hutt and 6cm at Coronet Peak -- could prove the ‘clincher’ for last minute holiday or ‘spring break’ bookings.

“While overall daytime temperatures are gradually creeping up and the days are getting sunnier and longer, it doesn’t look like winter is quite ready to leave us yet,” said The Remarkables ski area manager Ross Lawrence.

Queenstown’s Coronet Peak looked like a city in the sky over the weekend with all the lights of snow guns twinkling as cool overnight temperatures enabled the ski area to make snow to add to the natural stuff that had fallen through the week.

Mt Hutt’s resort town of Methven woke up to 5cms of light white powder coating the ground last week as snow fell to low levels, making for a ‘Winter Wonderland’ feel to the ski resort.

“Right now is the perfect time visit any of the mountains, while the days are longer and the snow is in great condition,” said NZSki CEO James Coddington.

Spring highlights on the mountains include the new Ice Bars at Coronet Peak and The Remarkables – the perfect spot to pull up a chair or lie back on a bean bag, grab a snack and a drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and take in the magical views.

Up at The Remarkables, spring time is about sunny slopes, terrain parks and families. The learners’ slopes are bathed in sunshine which makes learning to ski or ride a dream. For entertainment value you won’t want to miss the finals of the Tararua Real Iced Coffee Slopestyle Saturday September 24, or the Streets Mini Shred on October 9.

At Mt Hutt, keen snowboarders will head for the Streets Mini Shred on September 24 and the Mt Hutt Spring Festival, from October 8 to 14. The festival is a unique week of awesome events in Methven and at the ski area including Pond Skim, Ski Joring, a unique competition where a horse and rider pull a skier at a fast pace through a course that has gates, jumps and rings, a music festival, ski racing and Kids Fun Day.

Coronet Peak is scheduled to close for the 2011 season on Sunday October 2, The Remarkables on Sunday October 9 and Mt Hutt on Sunday October 16, subject to snow conditions and guest numbers.

Time to eat at Kawarau Village

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 10:39:13 +1200

Ladies’ Lunch a Lot, Sum Lunch or maybe Brunch? It’s time to eat at Kawarau Village

Queenstown’s newest village location has a series of new menus and reasons to dine in sunny splendour with changing offerings particularly appetizing for nearby residents and business people.

At the Wakatipu Grill in Kawarau Village lunching local Ladies are invited to sample a weekday two course lunch lakeside with a glass of wine for $29.50 (Men are not excluded of course). A sumptuous Sunday Dinner special menu at $58 per person has been created for those who might wander along the path or catch the water taxi across from town for a gorgeous evening out. A fresh and delicious weekend brunch at Wakatipu Grill provides a healthy or decadent start to a weekend day while Sum Lunch at Me & Mee Noodle Bar is a new Dim Sum menu with delectable tasty morsels from just $5.

General Manager Marlene Poynder says the village and its restaurants are committed to attracting local audience.

“Our eateries are about creating great meals and serving them in a stunning environment. We understand how discerning Queenstowners are and we have designed a set of new menus specifically to appeal to local people from families or groups of friends through to business people, ladies who lunch and couples who want a lovely lazy start to a weekend day.

“Each Sunday Wakatipu Grill Chef, Peter Thornley creates a new 3 course menu available for local diners. This is Sunday Dinner and is all about spending time with friends and family. It’s priced and designed so people can come often to enjoy a wonderful meal in glorious surroundings. Similarly, the Ladies’ Lunch a Lot menu is designed for local women who’d like to visit regularly with friends or business colleagues.”

For those across the water in Queenstown, visits to Kawarau Village are made easy with a water taxi service and a Kawarau Village Shuttle Service.

Other eateries in the village include Stacks Pub where there’s plenty of good hearty pub food to go with a beer, wine or cocktail and a great takeaway pizza menu, and the Lake Counter which serves fantastic coffee and pastries, sandwiches, paninis and a daily special alongside pantry essentials such as handcrafted breads and organic foods. Stacks also features live music on Thursdays and Sundays and a lively Quiz night fortnightly on a Wednesday.

Huge RWC Welcome Planned for Ireland

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 16:07:45 +1200

The Irish rugby team will be officially welcomed to New Zealand at Queenstown Airport on September 1. Queenstown is the team’s official port of entry to New Zealand for RWC2011 and plans are in place to ensure the team will enjoy a memorable reception.

The reception that will take place between 3.15pm and 3.30pm with dignitaries in attendance that will include Queenstown Mayor Vanessa van Uden and Irish Consul General Rodney Walshe. The public are welcome to attend and approximately 200 school children from Hawea Flat, Glenorchy, Garston, Makarora and Tarras Schools are being bussed to Queenstown Airport helping to ensure the Irish are greeted by an enthusiastic contingent of young rugby supporters.

The event coordinated by the Queenstown Airport Corporation will include formalities presented by local Iwi; a Putatara, Waiata and a Kapa Haka performance.

Lakes Leisure will be hosting a More FM Pool Party at Alpine Aqualand for the visiting children prior to the official welcome to ensure they get maximum enjoyment from their day in Queenstown, with QLDC providing a picnic lunch at the Queenstown Events Centre. Mayor van Uden said the Council on behalf of the community is delighted with the opportunity to welcome the players.

“Queenstown Lakes is looking incredible, the grounds are looking top notch and I know the hospitality will be in abundance. It’s an exciting time,” Mayor van Uden said.

Queenstown Lake District Council and Lakes Leisure have been working with RWCNZ and team management to ensure people in the community, particularly children, get the opportunity to be involved with the four teams staying in Queenstown that in addition to Ireland include England, Romania and Georgia.

Lakes Leisure Communications Manager Rachelle Greene said the teams are primarily here to train for what is clearly an extremely demanding event, which has unfortunately left them minimal time for community engagement.

“The Irish airport welcome was identified as a great way to get the children from the outer areas that might otherwise miss out involved. The teams training schedules leaves them relatively little time to spend with our community, so bringing the kids in from the outer schools for a pool party followed by an official airport welcome seemed like a great solution.“

As part of RWC2011 formalities the Irish team will also enjoy a private civic welcome on September 4 where the players will receive their caps.

Georgia will receive both an official airport and civic welcome on September 5 and 6 respectively. England and Romania will both be welcomed at other official ports of entry in New Zealand.

Coronet Peak: Missing snowboarder found by helicopter at 11pm

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 11:36:51 +1200

A search for a missing snowboarder near Coronet Peak ski area last night (Tuesday August 16) resulted in him being found at 11pm thanks to a helicopter with night vision.

The 30-year-old male snowboarder from Queenstown became separated from his snowboarding companions at approximately 3pm yesterday afternoon in the Greengates area of the ski area.

After he failed to meet them at the bottom of the Greengates run, his companions raised the alarm at the end of the day when he did not appear.

Coronet Peak ski area immediately launched its missing persons procedure and ski patrollers carried out a full sweep of the ski area.

He was located halfway down Dirty Four Creek towards Skippers Canyon, well outside the ski area boundary. He was cold but alive and well and in good spirits.

Coronet Peak ski area manager Hamish McCrostie said the snowboarder was “extremely happy” to see the helicopter when it landed on a precipice above him.

“He came running up to the chopper,” he said. “He was very lucky it all ended so well.”

Conditions on the mountain were cloudy with fog and low visibility at the time he become separated but cleared in the evening enabling the helicopter to operate. It was not snowing at the time.

Parklife Invitational brings freestylers from mountain to town

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 17:13:17 +1200

Up to thirty specially-invited freestyle skiers and riders will bust out their best tricks at Queenstown’s Earnslaw Park this Friday (August 12) in the ‘Parklife Invitational’ rail jam.

The Remarks terrain park crew will be bringing rails from The Remarkables ski area to downtown Queenstown where freestylers will go head to head on a purpose-built stair feature, covered by snow trucked down from the mountain, in front of thousands of spectators.

This year’s event is being held as part of the opening ceremony of New Zealand’s ‘100% Pure Winter Games’.

The Remarkables Ski Area Manager Ross Lawrence said the count-down was on for the iconic downtown event.

“Everyone up the mountain, from our Parklife team riders to members of the terrain park crew, are buzzing as they prepare for this,” he said.

“This is one of Queenstown’s major downtown events. The atmosphere’s always epic as onlookers enjoy a winter spectacular in the heart of the resort, while skiers and riders play up to the crowds and put on a fantastic show.”

The invitational athletes are well-known faces on the freestyle scene and compete for prize money from a $5000 cash prize pool, and product from The Remarkables, Parklife, Red Bull, St Goliath, Thirtytwo and etnies.

In the men’s snowboarding division, well-known names to look out for include riders Nick Brown, Nick Hyne, Mahi Mains and Hamish Bagley, while skiers Byron Wells, Matt Soundy and women’s skier Adie Lawrence are also guaranteed to put on a good show.

Fans will also be able to get up close and personal with some of the world’s best snowboarders from the ‘Thirtytwo’ team who are on a New Zealand tour and will be attending the event.

Food and drink stalls and tunes from DJ Turbohag will keep the crowds pumping while the Parklife Team strut their stuff alongside some of New Zealand’s top skiers and riders.

The event starts at 5.30pm with the first riding from 6pm onwards. The official Winter Games opening ceremony, giving crowds the chance to see Winter Games athletes and the parade of international flags, will be held at 7.15pm.

The event will wrap at 9.30pm after finals rounds and prizegiving. It is free to all spectators with the afterparty continuing at Subculture.

“The Parklife Invitational is a great event for all the family,” said Mr Lawrence.

“It brings some of the country’s best freestyle talent into town where everyone can see what they do. A fantastic effort from The Remarks Terrain Park Crew brings it all together, from building the jump to organising the snow and every other part of the event.”

* The ThirtyTwo New Zealand Tour Team is made up of JP Walker, Chris Grenier, Simon Chamberlain, Joe Sexton, Scott Stevens, Ben Bilocq and Jake Kuzyk.

Learn New Snowboarding + Skiing Tricks with AirBag at Remarks

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 15:47:22 +1200

Skiers and riders looking to practice jumps and tricks at The Remarkables this weekend (23 – 24 July) can do so safe in the knowledge that they’ll land comfortably with on The AirBag fall cushion.

Commonly used in the world of professional and sporting stunt jumps the supersized AirBag returns to the ski area most weekends from 10am – 4pm and is set up on the slopes near the base of the Sugar Bowl chairlift.

Ski Area Manager Ross Lawrence said the AirBag provided on-mountain fun for everybody with its assurance of a soft and safe landing.

“This land safe technology is a crucial training and development tool for many expert freestyle skiers and riders. It’s also huge fun and great practice for novice freestylers because they can experience hitting a kicker and getting air without the fear of falling and hurting themselves. They just go for it and have a ball,” he said.

“The AirBag goes hand in hand with the progressive park lifestyle, competitions and vibe that the ski area has to offer, we’re pretty pleased to have it here.”

To have a go on the AirBag, freestylers should meet at the bottom of Sugar Bowl. Cost is $15 for one hour or $10 for three ‘hits’ (cash only). All users must wear a helmet and U16s need to get a guardian to sign a waiver. Dedicated staff are on site to supervise its operation while open.

The AirBag is one of several activities and events taking place at The Remarkables ski area this season. Tubing will make its popular return in coming weeks following the grooming and completion of tracks and a series of events are on the calendar. For more details on all upcoming events at The Remarkables visit www.nzski.com.

Queenstown Ski Fields are Go!

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 16:11:29 +1200

Mother Nature has responded to a call for snow and blanketed New Zealand’s Southern Lakes region over the past week, leaving Queenstown ski fields in superb shape for the winter season.

Queenstown is buzzing after continuous heavy snow falls, combined with consistently cold temperatures, brought snow downtown and turned the resort and its surrounding mountains into a magical winter wonderland.

Snow at Cardrona Alpine Resort

View from Coronet Peak

Snow Park

Treble Cone

“It’s snow time!” said Destination Queenstown CEO Tony Everitt. “Everyone’s really fired up, people have been pouring into town and businesses are pumping. There’s always a real buzz when the snow comes in force, particularly when we get it downtown.

“The beauty of Queenstown is that you don’t have to be a skier or boarder to enjoy the winter season here. Our lake and mountain scenery is stunning, and there’s a huge range of things to do on and off the mountains for all ages and all budgets.

“Activities, from the wild to the mild, as well as cosmopolitan shopping, day spas, more than 150 restaurants and bars, award-winning vineyards, and budget to five-star accommodation options make Queenstown one of the world’s top holiday destinations no matter what the season or the weather.“

Snow storms have dumped up to two metres of fresh powder on the region’s six ski fields in just a week, and now blue skies are in the forecast for the start of the New Zealand school holidays.

Queenstown’s closest ski field Coronet Peak has received approximately 0.9m of snow in the past week, while ‘sister’ ski field The Remarkables has notched up 0.8m and has just opened its Shadow Basin terrain.

Cardrona Alpine Resort has received 1.15m of accumulated snow fall since opening day and today launched its new Valley View Quad chair.

Snow Park NZ has received 1.2m since opening on 30 June, while cross country ski area Snow Farm has also been blanketed with 1.2m of white gold.

Treble Cone ski area has been inundated with snow, receiving at least two metres in the last week (1.8m fell in the car park alone) and ski area staff are grooming and opening up new terrain daily.

The timing of the snowfall meant many Australians visiting Queenstown during their school holidays were able to make the most of it.

Mr Everitt said Queenstown was once again proving to be a “very attractive short-haul winter holiday destination for Australians” with more flights, attractive deals and positive exchange rates adding impetus to the already strong Australian visitor market.

Domestic and trans-Tasman flight schedules have been boosted into Queenstown for the winter season. There are now 30 trans-Tasman flights from Air New Zealand, Qantas, Pacific Blue and Jetstar flying direct into Queenstown each week as well as regular domestic connections from Air New Zealand and Jetstar.

100% Pure Winter Games NZ 2011

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 10:03:47 +1200

The world's biggest winter event outside of the Winter Olympics hits New Zealand in August!

100% Pure Winter Games NZ 2011

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100% Pure Winter Games NZ 2011

Queenstown revels in new snow

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 17:24:15 +1200

Skiers and snowboarders in Queenstown, New Zealand, are rejoicing as the snow falls and falls and falls in the mountains surrounding the South Island resort town.

The snow started yesterday (Wednesday 6 July) bringing freezing temperatures and snow to low levels. Forecasts predict a storm pattern that is expected to continue into next week, dumping snow on the picturesque Southern Alps ski areas.

Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Cardrona ski areas all report snowy conditions today as part of the wintry blast hitting the country. Coronet Peak and The Remarkables both opened for the season within the last week and Cardrona is on schedule to open tomorrow (Friday 8 July).

Destination Queenstown CEO Tony Everitt said the natural snow and promise of more to come had led to an “awesome vibe” around the town.

“The mountains and low lands are turning white and this fall heralds promising snow cover for the New Zealand school holidays which start at the end of next week (16 July). Loads of people are already here enjoying the slopes and with more white gold falling we’re delighted our season is now cranking up.”

Coronet Peak ski area manager Hamish McCrostie said Coronet Peak and The Remarkables had each received “10cm of snow by this morning and counting” as snowfalls continued throughout the day.

“The forecast is looking very promising with good snowfalls expected from now until Tuesday and the freezing level dropping,” he said.

Mr McCrostie said both ski areas were still snowmaking as much as temperatures allowed on all main trails. The new snow meant Coronet Peak would open its six seater Greengates chair on Saturday. More trails would open progressively at all mountains in the region.”

Cardrona Marketing Manager Nadia Ellis said mountain staff were excited about welcoming customers to the first day of the 2011 Cardrona season tomorrow.

“We had 10cm of snow overnight and consistent snowfalls today has resulted in at least a further 8cm over the mountain. And there’s more forecast,” she said.

Mr Everitt said Queenstown is a very attractive short haul winter holiday destination for Australians this year.

“A high Australian dollar combined with regular, direct and inexpensive trans-Tasman access makes for a wonderful break in Queenstown where there’s just so much to do on and off the slopes and a range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.”

Visitors from Australia can take advantage of 30 trans-Tasman flights from Air New Zealand, Qantas, Pacific Blue and Jetstar flying direct into the resort each week and domestic connections from Air New Zealand and Jetstar.

Coronet Peak opening Thursday too!

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 13:09:28 +1200

Thanks to the Snowmaking and Grooming teams Coronet Peak will open tomorrow (Thursday, June 30) with limited beginner, novice and intermediate terrain available.

Temperatures have finally dropped enough to allow snow guns to make as much snow as possible since Monday evening. Coverage is still limited so the runs NZSki are opening will include the main M1 Trail from top to bottom, the Big Easy trail and beginners area. Base building services will include rental, snowsports school, crèche, café, coffee bar, guest services and retail. Snowmaking and grooming will continue on all trails as conditions allow in order to get the rest of the mountain open as soon as possible.

Lifts will open at 9am tomorrow and the coveted ‘First on the Lift 2011’ T-shirts will be on offer to the first four guests onto the Express Chair. The bubbles have been on ice for quite sometime now and so to be able to welcome everyone to the start of our 2011 season really deserves a bit of celebration. NZSki staff will be in the line popping the Amisfield Arcadia and they’d love to see as many of you as possible up there.

Tomorrow will also mark the start of the American Express Winter Festival on Coronet Peak. The iconic Speight’s Dog Darby will be held although on a slightly different course. On Friday the free American Honey Coronet Concert has been rescheduled to go from 1pm – 4pm and the Mountain Mayhem will run as scheduled this Saturday, July 2.

Lifts open 9am.

Snow Park NZ to Open

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 11:49:28 +1200

Snow Park NZ is set to be the first ski and snowboard area in the Southern Lakes to open for the 2011 season, with opening scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday June 30th.

Cold temperatures allowing for top-to-bottom snowmaking have transformed Snow Park NZ during the past week, and permitted snowmakers and the Snow Park NZ on-mountain operations staff to prepare the popular box run for Snow Park’s initial opening.

“We’re thrilled to be opening.” said Snow Park NZ General Manager Robin Sadowski-Synnott. “Our entire operations crew have done a fantastic job preparing for the season.”

Snow Park NZ is scheduled to be open seven days a week. Additional terrain with night skiing on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday nights will open as snowmaking and additional snowfall permit.

While Snow Park NZ is offering limited terrain, the team are excited to open the mountain giving skiers and riders the first opportunity to get their skiing and riding legs back.

“There are lots of people in town ready to get the season started, so we’re very excited to be the first to open in the Southern Lakes,” said Sadowski-Synnott.

Opening day will be capped off with the snowboarding movie “Go Seek” at the Woolshed Restaurant, live music and more, beginning at 5pm.

Opening Day Schedule:

Lift Opening (9am - 4pm) - Box Run
Woolshed Restaurant and Bar (9am - late)
“Go Seek” movie, live music (from 5pm)

2011 looks to be another exciting season for Snow Park NZ, with a number of new developments and initiatives, including the purchase of two new Pisten Bully 400 Snow Groomers, the introduction of the new Snow Park School, a brand new rental department, a magic carpet for beginners, a tubing run, and planned back country snow cat skiing and riding.

Season passes are available for purchase on the Snow Park NZ website www.snowparknz.com or from the Snow Park Mountain office.

Stars on Ice ‘dazzle’ in Queenstown

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 16:10:34 +1200

New Zealand champion figure skaters were joined by Ice Blacks hockey players today (Tuesday 28 June) for a show-stopping ‘Stars on Ice’ performance on the Wonderland Ice Rink as part of the .

Queenstown local and 2010 Junior Men National Champion Chris Boyd (18) graced the rink first, followed by solo performances from Queenstown Primary pupil Jessica Staples, 2010 Senior Ladies National Champion Samantha Waugh and Wakatipu High’s India Haworth. Dressed in glittering black the country’s 2010 Senior Pairs National Champions Ariel Nadas and Grant Howie then executed seamless jumps, lifts and twirls together drawing gasps from hundreds of enthralled spectators.

Bringing gnarly clashes to the rink were five Southern Stampede players, four from the New Zealand Ice Blacks squad, Brett Speirs, Mitchell Frear (U18) Aston Brookes (U18) and Connor Harrison (U18), cheered on by Ice Blacks Captain Simon Glass.

Last night six of New Zealand’s funniest comedians, hosted by Brendhan Lovegrove, had festival-goers in stitches with individual stand-ups and a rendition of TV3’s 7 Days digressing over everything from bodily functions to politics to making a mockery of New Zealand’s infamous townships.

The American Express Queenstown Winter Festival continues tonight with the Air New Zealand Holidays Mardi Gras then tomorrow with the More FM Downtown Day where business men don heels and dresses for a madcap race around the park, the Speight’s Summit Avalanche Awareness Seminar, Skyline Murder Mystery and finally, more comedy with Late Night Laughs at the American Express Icebox.

To see the full programme line up and individual event details check out the complete American Express Queenstown Winter Festival calendar online at www.winterfestival.co.nz or pick up a programme at information outlets throughout the region.

Tickets for all events can be bought from TicketDirect online at www.ticketdirect.co.nz, by phone 0800 224 224 (03 450 9110), or in person at the Queenstown Events Centre or Queenstown i-Site (corner of Shotover and Camp streets)*.

Thriller in the Chiller a ‘knock out’

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 09:53:56 +1200

Ding Ding! Blood, sweat and tears were served in bucket-loads last night (Sunday 26 June) as 22 local and aspiring boxers stepped into the ring to showcase 16 weeks of gruelling training at the Mountain Scene Thriller in the Chiller Charity Boxing Night - a sellout American Express Queenstown Winter Festival event.

Cheered on by a roaring audience of 1,300 supporters, the contestants gave ‘knock out’ performances to help raise money for the Bruce Grant Youth Trust.

The night got underway with a fearsome WWF (World Wide Federation Boxing) clash between Marc ‘Marcus Kool ‘ Perry (77kg) and Matt ‘Max Damage’ Wilson (119kg) - surprisingly won by the underdog ‘Marcus Kool ‘ Perry.

Standing ovations were offered to the most intense matches – those between David 'The Destroyer' Lynott and Jeremy 'Jahfire' Wynward, and Lisa ‘Thunder’ Murphy and Clare ‘The Tempest’ Temperton.

In fight order, winners of each boxing bout were (Red corner left, Blue Corner right):

Shotover Jet’s Brett 'The Jet' Black Vs Coronet’s Head of Maintenance Dave 'Hurricane Hedgehog' den Hertog: winner 'The Jet' Black
Queenstown Golf Club’s Ben ‘Prime Time’ Kyllonen Vs Produce Manager Jochen ‘The Judge’ Wauters: winner ‘The Judge’ Wauters
Mountain Scene’s Editor Ryan 'Mean@Scene' Keen and plasterer Sean 'Sledgehammer' Sutton: winner 'Mean@Scene' Keen
Peter Alexander’s Linda 'Smiling Smasher' Coultrip Vs Hollyford Track’s Teresa 'The Hollyford Hammer' Wallace : winner 'The Hollyford Hammer' Wallace
Apex Rental Car’s David 'The Destroyer' Lynott and musician Jeremy 'Jahfire' Wynward : winner ‘The Destroyer’ Lynott
Spartar Security’s Nick 'Raging Bull' Parrish Vs World Bar security man John 'The Coconutty' Coles : winner 'Raging Bull' Parrish
Mechanic Alex 'Big Red' Ritchie Vs Jack’s Point Head Chef Andy 'Let Fly' Lisseman : winner 'Big Red' Ritchie
Feleki ‘Ko’ Uhrle Vs Boiler Room and Minus 5’s GM James ‘The Ace Man’ Ace : winner ‘Ko’ Uhrle
Old Man Rock waitress Lisa ‘Thunder’ Murphy and vet clinic manager Clare ‘The Tempest’ Temperton: winner ‘Thunder’ Murphy
Motelier Lee 'Light’s Out' Excell and NZOne Skydive Pilot Peter 'Parachute' Buckley : winner Lee 'Light’s Out' Excell
Sheep farmer Kelvin ‘The Bone Crusher’ Middleton and builder come Arrowtown Rugby player Aiden 'The Assassin' Winter: winner ‘The Bone Crusher’ Middleton

Earlier in the day, sporting prowess was on display in the Queenstown Gardens during the Frisbee Golf doubles and an Ice Hockey clash between Southern Stampede and Dunedin Thunder.

At the packed out Fun Centre, the crowd howled their support for the Queenstown team (Southern Stampede) as they ground the visitors down to a final 8 – 4 score favouring the Queenstowners.

The Frisbee Golf too was exciting with a record number of entries (62 players) and an exciting sudden death playoff in front of a big gallery for the top spots. In the end, locals Russ King & Elliot Menzies prevailed over Martin Galley & Hazen Simpson (both of Wanaka).

Today, the adrenaline continued with dozens of fitness junkies taking to Queenstown’s Earnslaw Park for the Alpine Health & Fitness Zumbia Mania joined by the likes of More FM Henry Youngman, an inflatable sumo wrestler and Cookie Time’s the Cookie Monster.

The fun of festival continues tonight as New Zealand’s funniest comedians take on each other in the first of a comic trio of nights out. The Oak’s Hotels & Resorts Comedy Gala, hosted by Kiwi funnyman Bredhan Lovegrove and led by Jeremy Corbett promises a ribbing of TV3’s comedy satire show ‘7 Days’.

Looking ahead, the programme continues with outrageous and inherently Queenstown events including the Air New Zealand Holidays Mardi Gras and Street Parade party tomorrow (Tuesday 28 June) More FM Downtown Day (Wednesday 29 June) featuring dodgeball and drag racing and on-mountain activity snow conditions permitting.

For the full programme line up and individual event details check out the American Express Queenstown Winter Festival calendar online at www.winterfestival.co.nz or pick up a programme at information outlets throughout the region.

Kawarau Village and Hilton Queenstown officially opened by New Zealand Prime Minister and Tourism Minister Rt Hon John Key

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 10:18:01 +1200

New Zealand Prime Minister and Tourism Minister, the Rt Hon John Key, officially opened two new upscale Hilton Worldwide hotels in Queenstown today. Hilton Queenstown and Kawarau Hotel managed by Hilton are located inHilton Worldwide’s Kawarau Village lakeside retail and dining precinct.

The openings of the 178-room Hilton Queenstown and 98-room Kawarau Hotel managed by Hilton, represent the global brand’s entry into the international year-round resort town and expand Hilton Worldwide’s portfolio in New Zealand to four hotels.

Respected Maori elder and Chairman of the Ngai Tahu Maori Trust Board and leading academic Sir Tipene O’Regan, formally welcomed the Prime Minister and Tourism Minister, John Key, in a traditional Maori greeting on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Tourism New Zealand chief executive Kevin Bowler welcomed the arrival of the Hiltonbrand to Queenstown and the South Island. “The opening of the Hilton Queenstown and the Kawarau Hotel are among the most anticipated hotel openings in New Zealand this year and are important investments in the New Zealand tourism industry. In challenging times for South Island tourism, here we have a global tourism leader expressing an emphatic vote of confidence by opening not just one, but two hotels, and establishing a brilliant new village for visitors to enjoy at The Remarkables end of Lake Wakatipu.

“Hilton Worldwide will help us market New Zealand to more of the high yield domestic and international visitors we are targeting and bring jobs and local economic benefits. The openings are ideally timed to complement our increased marketing of the snow season in Australia and as we prepare to host the Rugby World Cup in nearby Dunedin, with many visitors opting to base themselves in Queenstown.”

“We identified Queenstown as a strategically significant location for Hilton Worldwide. This project represents a development of the highest quality and world-class design. In addition to our award winning properties in Auckland and Taupo, Queenstown is now an essential part of our growing network of hotels in New Zealand,” said Martin Rinck, President, Asia Pacific, Hilton Worldwide, who flew from Hilton’s Singapore regional headquarters for the openings.

The features of the two hotels reflect much of the appeal Queenstown has to visitors from all over the world. An invigorating environment, with exceptionally designed interiors showcasing elemental New Zealand materials and inspiring views, luxurious indulgence, and many and varied fine food and wine experiences are part and parcel of a stay. The properties are the only North facing hotels in Queenstown that are alsopositioned directly on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. They deliver glorious views of the lake and landmark The Remarkables Mountain Range.

Art works by contemporary New Zealand artists throughout the Hilton Queenstown evoke the spirit of local culture. There are conference facilities for up to 230 guests at Hilton and 150 at Kawarau Hotel. Hilton is also opening its first eforea: spa and Queenstown’s largest spa within Hilton Queenstown. The three-level spa has 10 treatment rooms, a 25 metre heated indoor pool, gymnasium, spa and sauna.

Following the ribbon cutting, Mr. Key mingled with 100 guests representing the New Zealand tourism industry and media from New Zealand and Australia and dined at the Hilton Queenstown’s signature restaurant Wakatipu Grill. Helmed by renowned New Zealand Chef Peter Thornley, the Wakatipu Grill overlooks the lake and features a dramatic open kitchen and rotisserie, two magnificent circular stone fireplaces and an outdoor fire pit and presents a menu celebrating seasonallocal ingredients.

Destination Queenstown’s CEO, Tony Everitt, was also among the guests. “We’re very pleased to welcome the Hilton brand to Queenstown —it’s a great addition to our accommodation offering and complements the other hotel properties in town. To have such a significant international hotel opening here shows confidence in Queenstown as a highly desirable visitor destination and the Hilton’s brand reach will certainly add weight to the town’s international marketing exposure.”

General Manager Hilton Queenstown, Kawarau Hotel Managed by Hilton, and the KawarauVillage, Marlene Poynder, said, “Our properties’ incredible location in the Kawarau Village will add a new and exciting dimension to the South Island hotel offering. The irresistible style, sophistication and comfort of Hilton combined with the iconic beauty of Queenstown is unsurpassable.”

Kawarau Village is approximately 10 km (15 minutes’ drive) to Queenstown Town Centre, just over 2 km from Queenstown Airport, and approximately 10 km from The Remarkables Ski Area. Both hotels will run their own shuttle services by water and road into Queenstown centre.