Day 10. The last hurrah.

Today, New Zealand provided us with some of the most amazing weather conditions and we couldn’t have been more grateful. Unfortunately, it seemed that half of the country’s population were also keen to take advantage of the blue skies and balmy temperatures, so it meant that we had to fight the crowds to the chair lifts, but it was definitely worth it! The views from the top of the mountain were spectacular, and that’s exactly where our crew headed!

Perfect conditions!

This morning saw the last of our lessons being held and it was fantastic to see that all of our beginners had progressed from the green run onto the blue by the end, with groups tackling Broadway and Morning Glory. A great achievement for all in such a short period of time! It was just the confidence boost that some needed to be able to participate in the annual Summer Run later in the day. Other more advanced lesson groups took advantage of the perfect visibility and explored along the Virgin Mile, a black course which many had been itching to attempt. With our legs warmed up after lessons, it was time to get organised for the much anticipated Summer Run.

Qingyang skiing down Broadway with ease.

The Summer Run sees participants swapping snow pants and jackets for shorts and T-shirts, for a ski/board down Broadway. It is a lovely event that brings students of varying ability levels together for a bit of fun and a laugh. Observers are certainly amused, and perhaps confused, as they watch the group snake their way down the mountain side, looking very much like they could be at home in the heat of Townsville. 

All dressed up for the Summer Run.

While our Coffee House crew couldn’t ski down with the group, they were still able to play a vital role in the event; snowball makers. At the bottom of the run, those who can’t participate are charged with the job of making snowballs to throw at their peers as they finish. Anna, Bri and Hedy eagerly got on with this job, creating quite a stock pile of ammunition. They then had to wait for the others to descend. 

Summer Runners trying (unsuccessfully) to avoid snowballs.

Mr Melchiori, a prime snowball target on the chairlift.

The ride down was a little bumpy, but not too many spills were had. Ruby paused at one point with a wide stance and unexpectedly had a small child ski right through her legs. A nifty trick; if only it had happened on purpose! All in all, the Summer Run was a great way to end a near perfect day on Mt Hutt.

Hedy aiming a snowball.

This evening was all about preparing for our journey home. Bags have been packed, and rooms cleaned, ready for a speedy get away tomorrow morning. Now, with these chores out of the way, we can all sit back, relax and enjoy the Cowboys game. Fingers crossed for a win!