Cross-countryskifieldurgentlyseekscouncilfunding

• Published date: 27 May 2023
• Publication title: Otago Daily Times (New Zealand)

Speaking at a hearing for the council’s 2023-24 draft annual plan in Wānaka on Monday, Pisa Alpine Charitable Trust (Pact) chairman Samuel Belk said Snow Farm was running ‘‘by the smell of an oily rag’’ in a temporary structure consisting of containers, portable cabins and portable toilets

‘‘This is barely sustainable this year and unsustainable in the future.’’

Pact, which operates the skifield on the council-owned Waiorau recreation reserve, has found itself in need of funds for a new headquarters after its lease on an existing lodge was terminated by the Southern Hemisphere Proving Ground (SHPG) last October.

Pact is requesting council funding from this year’s budget for a $300,000 public toilet, shelter and utilities building, and an additional $150,000 for the construction of a 120-space carpark.

The facilities would be the first step in a multimillion-dollar development that would eventually include a headquarters with a reception, ticketing, lockers, rental area and classroom space.

The appeal marks the first time Pact has requested QLDC funding since ownership of the reserve was transferred to the council in 2012.

Mr Belk made the case that the Snow Farm was a part of community infrastructure serving the entire district and therefore warranted some investment from the council.

‘‘To survive, the Snow Farm needs toilets and parking, and later on a base building.’’

Pact anticipates it will need about $1.6million to complete the first stage of the project, including the $450,000 it is seeking from the council.

A second phase of construction is estimated to require a further $975,000. Pact is asking the council to also consider making a $500,000 contribution to this phase in their 2024-25 budget.

Subject to funding, Pact hopes to have the first stage of the project completed by June 2024, and the entire facility built by June 2025.

Fellow Pact trustee John Hogg said the loss of their previous...