Final weekend for longest ski day at Coronet Peak

Keen skiers and boarders have their last chance this season to head to Queenstown’s Coronet Peak for a marathon 13-hour ski day.

Night skiing will operate for the final time this season on Friday and Saturday nights (September 9/10) from 4pm to 9pm, making it the last chance for skiers or boarders to break the record for the most runs in a day.

With First Tracks and Night Skiing the ski area is open from 8am to 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays. A day pass holder currently holds the record for 60 runs in a day, converting to 24,124 vertical metres over 12 hours of skiing.

“The person who set that record this season on their mypass card didn’t do First Tracks between 8am and 9am, so with 13 hours of skiing available in a day, the longest ski area opening hours in New Zealand, getting in more than 60 runs is actually possible,” said Coronet Peak ski area manager Hamish McCrostie.

For those night owls or families who prefer to take things a little more slowly, a ‘magical’ night skiing under the stars is an experience not to be missed.

The main M1 trail, Shirtfront, Big Easy and some beginner areas will be open and fully floodlit enabling skiers and riders of all levels to experience the thrill and incredible beauty of night skiing.

“It’s the perfect opportunity for locals and visitors to take it easy and enjoy the ambience of a relaxed night out up on the snow,” said Mr McCrostie.

“You can head up around 4pm, ski or board until enjoying a good hot meal at dinner time and then hit the slopes again before a hot chocolate or mulled wine and home.

“All in all it’s a pretty magical experience that’s hard to beat,” he said. “It’s a whole different atmosphere at night – skiing under the stars then enjoying a drink on the deck, all with views over a sparkling valley.”

ENDS

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