Summer adrenalin at Coronet Peak

Press Release from Southern Alpine Recreation
November 13, 2006

Summer adrenalin at Coronet Peak

Mountain biking at Coronet Peak this summer promises more adrenaline and action with the unveiling of a brand new 4.2km downhill cross country track to complement the existing world class 1.6 km downhill single track.

And it’s downhill all the way with access for bikes and riders provided by the Coronet Express Quad chairlift.

Coronet Peak sales & marketing manager David Ovendale says the new trail means that fun and challenging mountain biking is on offer for all level of riders.

“We will now have terrain available for all levels, from amateurs through to elite riders. People can get their wheels off the ground or not and either way the experience will be exciting and exhilarating riding in a stunning scenic environment.”

“The sport is continuing to gain momentum in New Zealand and around the world and provides a fantastic summer use for Coronet Peak which is a designated recreation reserve.”

Coronet Peak opened its downhill track last summer and on the strength of that success has this year, in conjunction with the Department of Conservation, established a perimeter downhill cross country trail.

“Mountain biking allows the facilities and fantastic landscapes at Coronet Peak to be put to summer use. It provides an alternative use for our chairlifts and allows us to offer summertime employment to some of our staff – effectively a win/win situation for everyone.”

The Coronet Peak Mountain Biking season opens on 3rd January 2007 for two months until 28th February. It will operate 7 days a week from 11:00am to 7:00pm subject to weather conditions.

Non-stop mountain biking action is promised throughout the season. The 2007 New Zealand Community Trust MTB National Series from 12th – 14th January is expected to attract riders from around the world to the Coronet Peak bike park. Another highlight will be the 6-hour adrenalin packed Super D Endurance Race on Saturday 3rd February. For more info on both of these events see – www.bikenz.org.nz & www.adventuresourced.co.nz

Tracks will be closed to the riding public throughout the duration of major events but lift served spectator access will be available and on course excitement is expected to be high.

A range of adult bike rentals will be available at the base area operated in conjunction with Outside Sports, and coffee, light meals, beer or wine will be served at the Coronet Peak Brasserie.

Day passes are priced at $30 adult and $20 youth or $125 and $80 respectively for a book of 5 x Anytime passes. Season passes are available at $249 adult and $199 youth. A special deal is available to 2006 nzski season passes holders at $149 adult and $99 youth. Single ride sightseeing passes are available for $15 adult and $10 youth.

Day tickets can be purchased at Coronet Peak or downtown at selected information centres and bike shops and season passes online only at www.nzski.com from late November.

ENDS