New hot spots for skiers

New Zealand is set to become one of the most popular ski destinations in the near future, taking over from more traditional favourites such as Austria and Switzerland.

Research into declining snowfall levels across parts of Europe have led to predictions that newcomers including New Zealand will benefit and become new skiing hot spots.

Boasting the already popular resorts of Mt Hutt and the South Island's Treble Cone area, the country is expected to see a significant rise in visitor numbers as European locations fail to guarantee adequate snowfall levels.

In preparation of this increase, developers at Treble Cone have invested around £565,000 in a regeneration project to improve current mountain trails and snow facilities.

Runs for beginners, intermediates, advanced and snowboarders are also set for improvements, to ensure the resort caters for all abilities.

Israel has also been marked out for a rise in visitor numbers thanks to the European concerns and will need to ensure that its facilities are kept up to date for keen skiers.