NZsnowboard.com

11th May 2007

Snowsports enthusiasts and mountain crews in Queenstown, New Zealand, are feeling an
excited winter buzz today after an overnight snowfall coated the Southern Alps.

Queenstowners woke up to white peaks as The Remarkables was blanketed with 20cm of
fresh snow and the top half of Coronet Peak received 3cm.

Falling temperatures delivered this much welcomed early snowfall.

The Remarkables Mountain Manager Ed Bezett said the snow had come at exactly the right
time with the 2007 snowmaking project and cable laying completed just 48 hours earlier.

"Predictions for a good season appear to be tracking in the right direction. The longer term
forecast indicates we'll start to see more new snow in the near future - roll on opening day
on June 23!"

Across the valley Coronet Peak Ski Area Manager Hamish McCrostie said the first snowfall
is well-timed to drop temperatures as snowmaking crews are gearing up to begin
snowmaking in preparation for Coronet Peak's scheduled opening day four weeks from now,
on 9 June.

"This is a short, sharp blast to remind us that winter is just around the corner. 

"This cold snap is the beginning of the gradual move into winter weather and what we're
anticipating to be another good snow season," added McCrostie.

This week snowmaking crews on both mountains are putting the finishing touches on brand
new state-of-the-art snowmaking equipment. These new developments, coupled with fresh
natural snow, will help ensure a great winter experience for anyone visiting the mountains
this season.



Further information: Media Liaison, Alexa Forbes

alexa@southernpr.co.nz, Tel: 03 441 1117