Snow survey for Southern Lakes

Southern Lakes businesses are invited to contribute to the future of the region by participating in an online survey: www.snowsurvey.co.nz.

Questions, such as asking the value of extending the season with snowmaking, will quantify the snow industry’s economic impact in the Southern Lakes ski areas: Cardrona, Treble Cone, Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Snow Park.

This is the second phase of research in the snow district and complements a visitor survey, running since August. Participants could win one of five prize packages of 10 day passes to the Southern Lakes Ski Areas, 2006 season.

Its creator, the New Zealand Tourism Research Institute (NZTRI), says the survey is necessary to map out the region’s dependence on the snow industry.

NZTRI Director Simon Milne says research results will determine the effects of employment and tourism of the snow industry.

“The visitor survey looks at direct spending by visitors attracted to the area to ski and snow board. The local business survey assesses the flow-on effects of their spending in terms of indirect benefits to the local economy,” he says.

NZTRI research officer Vanessa Clark says a below average snow season highlights the value of ski areas to businesses better than a bumper season.

"This is the ideal time for local businesses to think about how the winter has been for them as the ski areas wind down earlier than anticipated."

The survey is funded by Trade and Enterprise New Zealand (NZTE) and was commissioned by the Southern Lakes Ski Areas. Results will be presented to the community and businesses later this year.

Outcomes, such as the impact of tourism on employment and resources, can be used for planning and lobbying by local businesses.

Previously NZTRI has undertaken research for the Ski Areas Association of New Zealand at Mt Ruapehu (2001) and Mt Hutt (1999).

NZTRI is based at AUT University and brings together experts in tourism and hospitality. Its goal is to develop timely and innovative research solutions for the tourism industry and those who depend on it.

For more information about the snow surveys and NZTRI, visit: www.snowsurvey.co.nz and www.tri.org.nz.

ENDS

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