July 13, 2009 – For those now cycling, running and paddling, the prospect of cross-country skiing seems like a long way off. But to enthusiasts living in the Southern Hemisphere the ski season is just ramping up, beginning in mid-June with better than average snowfalls.

At the Wairou Snowfarm in New Zealand, the average base is currently 75cm, with temperatures overnight around -5 C warming to just above zero during the day. Grooming is occurring daily and they report excellent conditions.

At Australia’s Fall’s Creek, home of the World Loppet Kangaroo Hoppet, the Australian National Cross Country Ski Team is currently training in preparation for the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver. With a 70cm base, 30km are open for skating and classic skiing.

So if you get a hankering to spend some of your summer gliding amidst the Snow Gum Ecalyptus trees, take a quick jaunt down under. For more info visit www.ski.com.au; www.snowfarmnz.com.