Lake Tekapo, New Zealand – The world’s longest and steepest rope tow will open up access to some of the biggest terrain in Australasia at New Zealand’s Roundhill Ski Area this winter.nThe ski area, located near Lake Tekapo in the South Island’s majestic Mt. Cook Mackenzie region, has always been popular for its family-friendly beginner and intermediate runs, but the new rope tow will now add advanced terrain to the mix.

At 1,473m (4,833 ft.) long with a 626m (2,056 ft.) vertical rise and top elevation of 2,133m (6,998 ft.), the Heritage Express Rope Tow triples Roundhill’s vertical drop and gives access to the steeps, chutes and big wide open spaces of The Two Thumb Range.

Roundhill co-owner Christian Burtscher is thrilled with the development and says it will definitely add a whole new dimension for skiers and riders of all ages and abilities.

“Roundhill has always been popular with families and intermediate skiers because of its wide open spaces, relaxed vibe and all day sun, but now we have a new area completely dedicated to giving more advanced skiers and riders the thrill of challenging big mountain terrain.

“This is completely unchartered territory for our diehard fans who come year after year. I can’t wait to see their faces after they’ve made their first tracks and got a taste of how amazing the terrain is.”

Heavy snowfalls last week, which saw Roundhill receive more than a meter of snow in four days, came at the perfect time, according to Burtscher.

“The entire ski area is blanketed. We’re averaging about 1.3 meters of snow on Roundhill itself and our new big mountain terrain is looking amazing. Snowmaking has begun on Roundhill, the rope tow will be completed this week and the staff are absolutely pumped and can’t wait to open.”

Roundhill’s current snow conditions are music to the ears of the Austrian, Canadian and Swiss women’s ski teams who will be training there this year.

Roundhill ski area is scheduled to open this season July 3rd.