Ski with the Gods on Mount Olympus from 30 June

21 June 2012

Ski with the Gods on Mount Olympus from 30 June

Mount Olympus in the Lake Coleridge high country is opening with plenty of snow as well as new bunkrooms and bathrooms for the start of the School Holidays.

The ski field by Lake Coleridge is benefiting from growing club membership and has completed some major refurbishments over summer in its on-field Lodge.

With a load of snow and an increase from six to seven permanent staff this season, the field is set for a superb winter, says Mt Olympus Club Captain Simon Driscoll.

Its facilities are supported by a 450 strong club and a growing non-member market, which is helping to fund refurbishment of the Lodge.

“The club is so strong that we’re fortunate to have a large number of volunteers wanting to help with the upgrades,” says Simon.

The 48-bed Lodge accommodates skiers staying on the mountain and provides a canteen and bar for day-trippers. It has high pressure showers, New Zealand’s highest hot tub, and meals prepared by a live-in chef.

Simon says there is also plenty of other accommodation in the Lake Coleridge area for people wanting to check out other fields as well like Mt Hutt and Porters.

“From the Lake Coleridge area, Mt Olympus, Porters and Mt Hutt are all just a short drive away and each offers a different skiing experience.

“Mt Hutt and Porters have more established facilities, but if you’ve got a sense of adventure you’ll spend some time away from the crowds and enjoy the light powder at Mt Olympus.

“We run Ski Weeks for families, university students and experienced skiers, all enjoying a great atmosphere in the Lodge right on the field.

“With the refurbishments we’ve done and more planned for next year, our Lodge is really comfortable and our access road has improved a lot, but like lots of club fields we don’t groom our runs and there are no fancy lifts or ski hire. We still offer a taste of what skiing was like in the early days.”

For more information about skiing at Mt Olympus visit: www.mtolympus.co.nz

Did you know?

The Lake Coleridge high country is in the middle of 7 ski fields: Mt Olympus, Mt Hutt and 5 fields on SH73 - Porters, Mt Cheeseman, Broken River, Craigieburn and Temple Basin. Pick your field depending on the weather and your ability. If you want to ski them all, check out the Chill Pass (www.chillout.co.nz).

For non-skiers, or a day away from the slopes, the Lake Coleridge high country has a range of walks and other activities like jet boating and horse riding. Find out more on www.lakecoleridgenz.info.

ENDS

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