Some Otago skifields have been closed to the public due to
potential avalanche danger.
Cardrona field manager Gary Husband said the skifield would
keep its access road closed to discourage people from trying
to travel up the mountain.
"We can't guarantee their safety. It's not about liability or
anything. It's just not good for people or the industry if
someone ends up getting hurt or lost."
Snow Park general manager Sam Lee said the terrain and
freestyle facility had a good coating of snow, but lacked a
solid base.
Hazards and hidden obstacles underneath the snow had the
potential to catch out skiers and riders, he said.
Treble Cone head patroller Gordon Smith said ski patrollers
had been using explosive charges to clear avalanche hazards
around the skifield this week, to permit staff and
contractors to carry out pre-season preparations.
The skifield is off-limits to the general public, and the
access road remains closed.
Wanaka alpine skifields are insisting people stay away this
weekend because of safety concerns.
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