Just got the following from Gary who manged to get some turns in this past weekend. Good to hear Gary wasn't the only one out. Sounds like at least one other person in the Southern lakes is training for the SkiMoNZ series.
"Following the recent dump from the southerly blast that hit the whole of NZ, looking up towards Coronet Peak from Queenstown on Friday afternoon, you could see there was a good covering of snow on the trails. Fortunately for us the field had tested the snow canons on the days leading up to the snow fall and a good base had formed in a matter of days.
Dragging all me gear out of the various hiding spots in my house, I finally got myself in shape for heading up the hill. It was a beautiful blue bird day and on arriving at the field carpark I was welcomed with views of kids and adults alike having a good time on the new snow. I quickly donned my F1's, clicked into my Dynafit bindings and started skinning up a 4 wheel drive track to access one of the main runs. This was easier said than done as there was a little negotiation required to get around the building site, which is to be the Main Station of Coronet Peak. You'll be pleased to hear it has a roof.
The snow was light and travel easy, as it turned out I wasn't the first to skin up and I followed freshly made tracks, noting areas of poor cover on the way up. The snow depth ranged from 25cm to 10cm in places, but looked skiable. At the top, the skins were ripped off, jacket put on, I savoured the view for a few minutes, but I was keen to get sliding, so quickly got going. The skiing where there was enough snow was good...., I would love to say "pow pow", but don't want to exaggerate the first sliding experience of the year. The snow conditions improved as I made my way down the hill and some good turns were had in 25 cm of new snow. I quick traverse above the 'building site' took me to the 4 wheel drive access track and I was able to ski to within 30 metres of my car. A good result.
It was great to get back on my ski's and I am looking forward to the season starting for real. Just got the Routeburn Challenge to get through this weekend.
Sorry I have no pictures of the adventure, but will make sure I bring the camera next time."
Got a early season story to tell? Send it in-nzinfo@skimo.org
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