nz update

NZ UPDATE - CHRIS LOFTUS

29 May 2001

The news here is that they have been making snow like crazy on Coronet Peak for the past 8-10 days, there is also a fairly good 50/60cm base of fresh snow.

All is looking good for the mountain opening next Saturday (June 2nd) though quite a few of the locals have been hiking and skinning up already. The Remarkables are scheduled to open at the end of June.

The biggest problem for anyone arriving in Queenstown for the season is accommodation - it is a nightmare! Both the local paper and radio station keep running features on the fact that there are basically no free rental properties in town. Those with cars are having to take digs out of town and face the daily drive, and it's going to get a great deal worse before we get into full season.

I am however pleased to report that I've managed to fluke a fairly grubby one bed flat for approx 50 quid a week. That said this is a beautiful part of the world and all the Brits I've spoken to are finding the cost of living pretty cheap due to the weak NZ dollar.

I'll report in again once I've got some boarding done.

Chris Loftus

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