July 28th heralded the start of the annual St Margaret's ski trip. 60 students bussed down to Queenstown, eager to spend a weekend on some of New Zealand’s best slopes.
We had a diverse bunch of skiers and snowboarders of varying skill levels, while others came along just for the chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of Queenstown itself.
Day one saw students shuttling up to Coronet Peak. Some of the more advanced students gave the beginners some pointers before heading up to the more advanced trails, while others preferred to chill out on the more relaxed runs. All in all, a spectacular first day with some equally spectacular wipe outs, though thankfully no major injuries. That night students dined out on the town, with some even braving the forty minute line at the famous Fergburger restaurant, said to be well worth the wait.
Day two and we headed up to The Remarkables, which truly lived up to their name. Clear blue sky and pristine snow, although the early morning meant some runs were still a little icy. Again, people separated out to pursue their own skill level, with some skiers choosing to give snowboarding a go, and vice versa. Come lunchtime, we set up camp in the alpine café, which offered idyllic views of Southland’s alpine landscape. Being economical students, packed lunches were made that morning, at the YHA where we had stayed.
Three o’clock marked the end of the ski day and the beginning of the five hour bus journey back to St Margaret's, with a stop in the small town of Roxburgh for dinner – fish and chips, mostly.
Two wonderful days full of beautiful weather and good fortune, what more could you ask for? Huge thanks to Yezen Kubba, our excellent Sports Rep, for organising such a brilliant weekend.
(Story by Madeleine Fountain)
