Snow show full of promise

By STEVE HART

The American Express Snow & Outdoors Show opens next week for five days bringing more than 100 ski and winter sport exhibitors under one roof at the Auckland Showgrounds.

Part of the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, the snow and winter sport element is a new edition to the annual event.

"The show is going to be larger than the Ellerslie Flower Show," says Mike Rose, publicity manager for organiser Premier Exhibitions.

"It's New Zealand's ultimate outdoors lifestyle show, showcasing the very latest ski and snowboarding equipment, travel and clothing, as well as featuring a wide range of exhibitors catering to Kiwi's renowned love of the great outdoors."

Twelve pavilions will display a variety of marine products for serious boaties and fishermen - from huge fishing displays through to luxury launches. There will be more than 230 exhibitors.

The New Zealand Boat Show - in its 51st year - will also include camping equipment and a range of vehicles including 4WDs, motor-homes, motorcycles and golf carts.

More than 40,000 people are expected to pass through the gates during the Queen's Birthday weekend event.

There will also be prizes such as a $55,000 CSB Huntsman boat package, a Ski Express holiday to Queenstown worth $2200 and a $6000 trip for two to Vanuatu.

Among the winter sport exhibitors at the Snow and Outdoor Show are Brandex, Bo Bo, Dive Fish, Snow Travel, Downhill Ski Club, Hot Buttered Surf and Snow, Sportive NZ and Gravity Sports.

Doors open on Thursday, May 29 at 10am and the show ends at 6pm on Monday, June 2.

The show offers a fun-filled event for the family and there's the chance to see a squid that's more than 8m long.

Tickets are sold at the gate only. A family pass for two adults and up to four children is $40. Adult pass, $18; children, 5-14, $8; senior citizens/students, $15 with under 5s free.