Snow’s coming - ski experts say

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30/05/2007

Snow’s coming - ski experts say

Using May weather data to predict how good the ski season will be doesn’t make sense, ski experts are warning.

A warm May means nothing when it comes to the quality and length of any ski season according to Miles Davidson from the New Zealand Snow Industries Federation.

“Every year people fret about a lack of early season snow, and every year it arrives – sometimes early June, sometimes mid-June, sometimes late-June.

“The fact is: the start date of the season rarely affects the length and quality of the season.”

Davidson says snowmaking facilities are getting better each year, and new automated technology means areas can make snow as soon as the temperatures are right.

“Cold nights and cooler days expected in June mean the ski areas can really pump some acreage,” he says.

The ideal temperatures for snow making are zero to -2 degrees, however new technology enables some ski areas to make snow at temperatures of up to two degrees, providing there is low humidity, Davidson says.

He says snow falls and snowmaking means ski areas can open their main runs much earlier than in the past and in time for school holidays in late June.

Davidson’s comments about the start of the season are backed by NIWA which notes that snow in May is not an indication of how good a season will be.

“Over the years news reports bemoaning the lack of May snow have become a bit of a cliché for the industry,” Davidson says. “It’s not as if winter gets cancelled because the weather in May is a little warmer.”

Davidson said people should use May and early June to ensure their snow gear is checked and serviced. “It’s a perfect time to get ready to hit the slopes as soon as the ski areas open. “Professionally-tuned gear lets people have more fun and a safer time on the mountain,” he says.

“Most New Zealand ski areas expect to open by the end June, with many planning to open in just few weeks,” Davidson says.

ENDS

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