Bangkok--22 May--Tourism New Zealand
Tourism New Zealand invites you to get away from the heat of the Northern hemisphere to experience the nice cool weather, picturesque scenery and skiing in the southern hemisphere during June-September. Apart from being the youngest country on Earth, New Zealand has many world-class ski fields in both North and South Islands complete with facilities such as accommodations, restaurants, ski gear and ski lessons. Winter also has many festivals for you to enjoy during your holidays in New Zealand. Mt Ruapehu in the North Island is a live, dormant volcano that receives a fair dusting of snow each winter and is home to the country’s largest ski fields - Turoa and Whakapapa. Both boast similar terrain and facilities with a good mix for all abilities. The South Island has over 7 public ski areas and numerous other private fields. Queenstown is the place most commonly associated with winter holidays in New Zealand, and Coronet Peak in Queenstown is the most popular ski field and the only one that offers night skiing. The gentle slopes of The Remarkables ski area, which overlooks Queenstown, are particularly perfect for families and learners alike. But the powder bowls and off-piste big mountain riding is also a challenge for advanced skiers. Further north in the Canterbury region, 90 minutes from Christchurch, is Mt Hutt which has one of the longest snow seasons. It is the first to open every winter and very popular among the locals. Winter in New Zealand is not just about snow and ski, but there are also many festivals for you to enjoy. Bluff Oyster & Seafood Festival, 24th May 2008, Bluff, Southland, is an annual event showcasing an array of local fresh seafood and delicacies, entertainment and fun filled competitions. Despite all other activities, the Bluff Oyster will remain the star of the show. Chefs will prepare them in a variety of ways and oysters will also be available au naturel. Matariki Festival is the Maori New Year and has community events throughout New Zealand. But in the Hawke’s Bay region of the North Island, there will be a big event during 31st May — 14th July. Events include fine dining, Maori hand game competitions and fireworks. New Zealand Coffee Festival, 6-8 June, Auckland, is a must visit for coffee lovers. This annual event features New Zealand’s best freshly roasted coffee, Latte Art competitions, food and wine. Queenstown Winter Festival, 27 June — 6 July, Queenstown, is a 10-day non-stop programme of over 60 events encompassing sport, art, music, comedy, food and wine. Dunedin International Film Festival, 25 July — 10 August, Dunedin, is two glorious weeks of celluloid with something for everyone to enjoy. Dunedin is the most Scottish city outside of Scotland and has retained a strong Scottish heritage. Whitianga Scallop Festival, 27-31 August, Auckland, is a weekend long celebration of Coromandel seafood and cuisine with over 60 food and wine stalls, cooking demo’s, loads of competitions and great entertainment.
For more information of winter in New Zealand and upcoming festivals,
please visit www.newzealand.com and www.snow.co.nz