New Zealand’s premier mountain resorts of Queenstown, The Remarkables and Coronet Peak plus Mt. Hutt near Methven have started to unveil new developments for the 2015 ski season.
A multi-million dollar state of the art base building at The Remarkables is the focal point of all developments with its striking angles, high peaks, wraparound decks and panoramic views, setting the benchmark for ski area functionality in an alpine setting.
Designed by one of New Zealand’s leading architects Michael Wyatt, the base building provides easier access to the Curvey Basin trails, along with the convenience of ticketing, rentals and retail facilities all in the one space.
Overlooking the stunning Wakatipu Basin, the facilities expansive decks open up directly onto the learners’ area and continue around the entire building, offering sweeping views of the Southern Alps – a perfect location for high alpine dining or après ski relaxation.
“The design concept delivers a stunning looking building that reflects its dramatic alpine location.”
Paul Anderson, CEO NZSki
The Remarkables Ski Area Base Lodge sketch of completed building.
“The services on the ground floor are all designed to convenience our guests with efficiencies in ticketing purchases and rental collection, allowing for a faster turn around to get out on the snow and enjoy a day skiing or boarding.
“The top floor, which features a stunning 10m high glass frontage, is where the café and restaurant are located with seating for more than 700 inside and another 400 outside.
“The anticipated opening for The Remarkables base building is June 20, if all goes to plan with construction,” added Mr Anderson.
While development continues at The Remarkables sister mountain Coronet Peak has its own developments underway for the 2015 ski season, with night skiing lighting enhancements, and adjustments to take off and landing areas in the terrain park which features an airbag ‘drop in’ area.
The Remarkables Ski Area Base Lodge, image of work complete to date
Coronet Peak will also introduce a new snow tubing lane from mid July onwards, along with additional snowmaking to supplement national snowfalls.
Further north on the South Island, Mt. Hutt located near the quaint ski town of Methven, have their seasonal teams managing earthworks to enhance the resort’s mini terrain park, whilst adding additional rail and box features to compliment the existing inventory.
Clearing is also underway to develop new trails on the lower half of the mountain for skiers and boarders to divert back to the base area outside the slow zone.
Ski Express, ANZCRO, Ski Max, Oz Snow Adventures, Sno N Ski and Snowscene are all offering free ski or snowboard rental equipment at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Mt. Hutt as an early bird incentive for anyone who purchases either a five or more day Queenstown Superpass, Mt. Hutt lift pass or a Kea Club Ski School program by 31 March, 2015. For bookings call your preferred ski tour operator or travel agent.
