What is your job?
Ski area manager, Coronet Peak
Why did you choose it?
It chose me!
How many seasons have you been here?
This is my fifth season as manager at Coronet Peak. Before that, I was manager at the Remarkables for 13 years, and before that I was patrol HOD for both. I started as a patroller in 1979.
Where are you from?
Originally Invercargill a long time ago. Go the Stags!
What kind of job (or education) did you do before you took up this job?
So long ago I can't remember. I have completed a bachelor degree while in my current job.
How would you describe your job?
It is the best job in the world. I get to work with a whole bunch of really talented people, welcome thousands of regulars and new guests each season. No two days are the same, I get to ski most days in the winter and some in the summer and make things better and better on the mountain every year.
What is the best thing about your job?
The people, great-to-meet people who are excited about being on snow, some for the first time and some for their 70th season.
What challenges comes with the job?
The weather is probably our biggest challenge. We are like farmers - we rely on the weather for the success of our seasons. We do have some very sophisticated snowmaking and grooming equipment that helps with these challenges.
What skills or qualities are needed to do your job?
People skills are important, the ability to engage positively with people and develop relationships. You also need the ability to remain calm in all situations.
Who would your job appeal to?
Probably those who like to work long and hard in the middle of winter.
How are you settling in to life in Queenstown?
I have lived here for 35 years, so settled in well!
What is your best advice to people who move to Queenstown for seasonal work?
Appreciate it for the good qualities and the outdoor lifestyle. Don't burn the candle at both ends - cheesy I know, but a lot don't look after themselves and burn out.
Off Piste will feature in the Queenstown Times every Wednesday, where we will get to know some of the people employed by NZSki at the Remarkables and Coronet Peak. Next week we'll be talking to the Remarkables Ski Area manager Ross Lawrence.
