Tukino ski field offers stay-&-ski packages

New for 2003 - Tukino ski field offers stay-&-ski packages

Ruapehu’s lesser-known ski field, Tukino, has announced that this year it is offering skiers all-inclusive packages that cover ski passes, accommodation and meals. The marketing represents a new direction for the club-operated ski field, which has barely promoted itself in previous years.

The ‘Club Experience’ packages have been put together by the Tukino Mountain Clubs Association (TMCA) and are designed to help the ski field attract more skiers and potential members whilst giving skiers and snowboarders somewhere to enjoy great skiing without the crowds that flock to Ruapehu’s main commercial fields. Tukino’s selection of ‘Club Experience’ ski packages offers weekend, long weekend and midweek options. The packages are being promoted as a chance for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy the wide open spaces on the quieter side of the mountain, and to become ‘a part of the club’ for a few days. “Hopefully people will enjoy it enough to consider becoming club members, or to at least come back more often,” says TMCA President Dick Joyce. “Part of the Club Experience includes mixing with the other members and being part of activities that help the field run smoothly, so it’s not a full service hotel option, but a good kiwi “home stay” experience in a friendly sports club. There are two club lodges on the field, with a small and supportive membership base that is ready to welcome visitors for a few days, as well as new members. It’s an ideal option for families and social groups.”

Tukino doesn’t suffer from the crowds of larger ski fields, and the club believes that this is a big drawcard for people who want a bit more personal space and room to move with safety on the slopes. A 4WD-only access road from Tukino’s ‘base camp’ to the ‘village’ also keeps numbers down compared to other fields. However, the club can arrange 4WD transport for individuals and groups that are coming to stay but don’t have 4WD vehicles.

The ‘Club Experience’ packages include ski passes, all meals and accommodation, and represent excellent value at $70 per night for adults, $50 for students (11-18 or with valid full time ID) and $25 for children. Tukino ski field is hoping to attract families, social groups such as 4WD clubs and school groups with the packages. Bookings are essential.

Tukino ski field has two tows, 250 vertical metres and 19 hectares of skiable area, mostly rated beginner or intermediate but also with a bit of a ‘Wild Side’ with great off-piste powder skiing and boarding for the more adventurous. Its slopes are sheltered from the prevailing winds and the field is often operating in clear weather when the rest of the mountain is in cloud. Tukino also has a ski school and a widely recognised ski development squad.

Once the snow arrives, Tukino is scheduled to be open in weekends during July, and then full time from Saturday 2 August through to Sunday 14 September.

For more information about the ‘Club Experience’ packages or the Tukino ski field, call 0800-TUKINO (0800 885-466) or visit http:// http://www.tukino.co.nz