Coronet Peak marks 75 Years of Good Times

New Zealand ski field Coronet Peak has marked its 75th anniversary with five nights of events.

The five-day programme, which ran from 17th to 21st August, presented a range of entertainment along with a line-up dedicated to the people and community that helped shape New Zealand’s first commercial ski field.

Commenting on the diamond anniversary celebrations, Coronet Peak Ski Area Manager, Nigel Kerr stated "Coronet Peaks 75th is a chance to celebrate not only the mountain, but more importantly the people who have dreamed, built and enjoyed the Peak over the last 75 years. I was told once ‘that to look over your shoulder to see where you have come from is an opportunity to draw a better path to the future.

“I agree with this, (as) the shared passion we have for snow sports in all its forms is what empowers us.”

Celebrations commenced with the Night Ski party, rounded out by a fireworks display, on 17th August, followed by a Dash for Cash event makes its return, a staple Coronet Peak event from the 1990s.

This was a ‘no-rules race’ where competitors were able to do anything they wanted to complete an on-mountain course and win $5000. This time round the event saw the introduction of a few ground rules, with $5000 again up for grabs.

Other events included a Retro Theme Day and Torpedo 7 Straight Ski race all leading into the anniversary’s premiere event - the G H Mumm Champagne Long Lunch and Retro Fashion Show.

As part of the anniversary celebrations a special charity auction commenced on 9th August.

Kerr went on to say “we (had) been planning Coronet Peak’s 75th for quite some time and it was exciting to be able to share these special events with the Queenstown community and Coronet Peak loyalists.”

Credit: Coronet Peak during the 2022 snow season (top) and during its first year of operations in 1947 (below). Credit: Coronet Peak/NZSki.