International students made their mark on this year's Uni Snow Games in Wanaka as competitors, volunteers, and event organisers.
University of Otago student Julie Kochan (19), from Massachusetts, in the United States, was among those adding to their New Zealand study experience by competing at the annual games. She said she had read about the games before she arrived in New Zealand in July.
"I really wanted to do it even before I got here. I'm loving it. It's just so much fun. I've done local competitions at home, but this week was the first time I've done things like [the] gravity cross [course] and it was great."
Marc Andri Riedi (28), of Switzerland, is also studying at the University of Otago and said the games provided a great chance to meet other New Zealand students. He won several gold medals in snowboarding to help Otago University defend the Michael Forrestal Memorial Shield.
University Sport New Zealand intern Matt Steingraber, of Wisconsin in the United States, said he had been having a great time at the Uni Snow Games.
"It's a great event and everyone seems to be having a really good time. It's great to see a combination of different athletes - some that are here just for fun and others who are here for harder competition."
Uni Snow Games volunteer Stefanie Aumann, of Austria, is studying at Massey University's Albany campus and came to Wanaka to volunteer and ski.
"I really wanted to go skiing and to see the South Island, and it's been great so far. Volunteering has been great. I do a bit of work then get to enjoy the day."
The 66th Uni Snow Games, a week-long competition for tertiary students, finished on Saturday.
