NZsnowboard.com

5th February 2008

Snow Sports New Zealand (SSNZ) announces a new adaptive snow sports programme at Snowplanet in Auckland, due to be publicly launched this Saturday (February, 2) by Rodney mayor, Penny Webster. The programme has been developed to provide support for people with physical, sensory and cognitive impairments and ensures there is no limit to enjoying the freedom of skiing and boarding with family and friends.

With six adaptive programmes already available around New Zealand, this new programme is unique as a joint venture between a group of disability sport organisations and Disabled Snowsports NZ through SSNZ, to provide a year-round indoor facility.

Libby Blackley of Adaptive Snow Sports NZ, said snow sports was one of the few sports that those with severe disabilities can actively participate in.

?We?ve been looking at the possibility of setting something up at Snowplanet since it opened,? she said. ?The programme provides a really exciting opportunity for disabled people to have a go at skiing or snowboarding in a safe, secure environment, without having to go to the mountains, right here in Auckland. ?

The programme, managed by Snowplanet adaptive instructor, Millie Clark, will also provide a training facility for athletes, instructors and volunteers, helping to develop a culture of highly qualified adaptive instructors and athletes.

The programme launch will take place at 11.30am at Snowplanet, 91 Small Road, Silverdale. For further information, visit www.snowplanet.co.nz