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Snow Business Sixty Years Skiing in New Zealand Ralph Markby ISBN: 9781877460067 Release: Aug 2008 Subject: General, Outdoor Recreationalists, Mountaineering/Skiing Format: Paperback RRP: NZ$44.99

'Skiing is a dance, and the mountain always leads.’ — Anonymous

Snow Business traces the history of skiing and the rise of ski culture in New Zealand over the past six decades – from the emergence of ski clubs to the expansion of commercial ski fields. Ralph Markby, a passionate skier who made his first pair of wooden skis in 1944, recalls the days when skiers trudged up mountains for every run. Here he tells irresistible tales of the intrepid skiing pioneers – undaunted by the physical challenges of their new sport, and armed with an unflagging sense of humour.

The subsequent development of commercial ski fields called for an adventurous spirit and a burning commitment to the slopes. The cast of visionary characters in Snow Business includes members of the iconic Wigley family, who were tourism pioneers at the Hermitage, Coronet Peak, Ohau and the Remarkables.

New Zealand boasts some very fine ski fields: here we are taken on a magnificent tour of them, including the lesser known gems, and can admire breathtaking mountain vistas along the way.

An exhilarating look at the history of a sport which has set the pulse racing for generations of New Zealanders and visitors alike.

Reviewers Comments... 'For anyone with an interest in the New Zealand ski industry, this book is a great read! – The Wanaka Sun, 2008 'If you are not already a skier you will want to be after reading this.' - Beattie's Book Blog, 2008