NZsnowboard.com

15th March 2007

Queenstowner Hamish McCrostie has been appointed Ski Area Manager for Coronet Peak.

A veteran of the ski areas and currently Ski Area Manager for The Remarkables, Mr McCrostie is highly regarded for his unparalleled knowledge of the local mountains, the ski industry, snow safety management and snow conditions.

Southern Alpine Recreation Managing Director Duncan Smith said the company was pleased to announce Mr McCrostie?s appointment which was the first in a company-wide management reorganization.

?Hamish brings a wealth of experience to Coronet Peak along with an absolute commitment to further develop the snow experiences offered there.

?He is a well known and popular local Queenstowner who is also well travelled and has experience in ski areas both overseas and in New Zealand.  Hamish knows and understands the town, the mountains and what ski holidays are all about.?  

Mr McCrostie said he was looking forward to stepping up to the challenge of running Coronet Peak

?Coronet Peak is a premier ski area and it?s a huge thrill to take on the challenges of leading it during this exciting period of development and growth. The development over the past few years of local ownership has greatly improved the experiences offered to skiers and boarders from here and around the world.  New high speed lifts, huge terrain development, a doubling of the beginners? area this year, and that development is set to continue.?

At the same time, he would miss The Remarkables after thirteen years as manager.

?I had a fantastic tenure at The Remarkables where over the past five years of local ownership we have enjoyed a period of intense development and a doubling of business levels.

?The Remarks has to be one of the most beautiful ski areas in the world and an incredible place to have your office.  An awesome team of committed people means it?s in a great position to continue to grow and develop as one of New Zealand?s best freestyle and family snow areas."  

 Mr McCrostie has a strong affinity with Coronet Peak having grown up skiing there since 1961.  His career in the snow industry began there in the 70?s when he worked as a lift operator during school holidays then as a Ski Patroller in the 80's.

Mr McCrostie has lived in Queenstown for 30 years and is married with two children aged 10 and 7.  His appointment becomes effective in May.

Further announcements are expected shortly when Southern Alpine Recreation Limited confirms who will lead The Remarkables Ski Area into the 2007 season.


Further information:
Managing director Duncan Smith duncan@nzski.com,   0274 769 881
Or
Media liaison Alexa Forbes, Southern Public Relations Limited, alexa@southernpr.co.nz, 03 441 1117