Media release
9 June 2011

Snowmen Forecast for Auckland Tomorrow

In what is described as a once in a lifetime event, a migration of snowmen is making its way to Auckland.

A sighting has been reported in Bairds Road in Otahuhu and additional snowmen have been tracked to central Auckland.

Snowmen are seldom seen in Auckland, which rarely sees temperatures below zero degrees Celsius, and have traditionally appeared in the North Island’s Central Plateau and parts of the South Island.

“Other than the great winter of 1939 that dumped 5cm of snow on top of Mt Eden, snow is uncommon in Auckland,” says MetService Weather Ambassador Bob McDavitt.

“June and July are usually our coldest months, but it is unlikely that we will be seeing snowfall in Auckland this year. I would have to say a sighting of a snowman in the Auckland region would certainly be unusual."

"This is an unusual migratory path for the predominantly alpine-bound characters, and it’s rare to see them in an urban habitat in New Zealand,” says Honor Dillon, Export 33 brand manager and part-time snowman enthusiast.

“Snowmen are docile, friendly and will melt your heart... that is before they themselves melt and disappear into Auckland footpaths.”

Honor Dillon believes the snowmen have been attracted to the city after hearing word of a special deal for snow lovers.

To celebrate the start of the 2011 snow season Export 33 is offering customers $33 off every adult day pass at Whakapapa, Turoa and Treble Cone ski areas. Simply purchase a specially marked pack of Export 33, Export Gold or Export Dry, tear off the coupon on the pack and present it at the mountain for your $33 discount

“The snowmen are an important reminder that winter is best enjoyed with a bit of snow. I hope their timely visit will encourage us to get out of the city and visit the snowmen in their natural surroundings this snow season,” says Dillon.

Keep an eye out for snowmen in the central city tomorrow, if spotted you will be rewarded with ski passes and an Export 33, Export Dry or Export Gold pack of beer. However if you are not that fortunate to meet these humble snow giants in the flesh, be sure to visit www.dbexportbeer.co.nz/ski to be in to win daily beer prizes throughout June.

ENDS

Note:
Those wanting to use the $33 off coupon at Treble Cone can do so any day of the week while those making the most of the offer at Whakapapa or Turoa need to do so between Monday and Friday. The coupons are valid until 30th September, 2011.
The ‘$33 off ski pass’ promotional packs will be available from early June in supermarkets and specialist stores nationwide.

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