New Zealand's Lake Wanaka is looking forward to an increase in visiting skiers and snowboarders, thanks to a multi-million dollar investment in winter sports infrastructure.

Over the last three years, the town's ski areas of Cardrona, Snow Park and Treble Cone have jointly invested over $20 million in improving their facilities and infrastructure..

These improvements include 250 hectares of new lift accessed terrain, two new chairlifts, nine terrain parks, three halfpipes, increased capacity in snow making, improved base lodge facilities including new restaurants, cafes and bars, 14 new on-mountain apartments and backpacker accommodation plus development of on-snow products such ski schools, children's facilities and instructional camps.

"This is a huge investment for a one single region to make and to date it is unmatched anywhere else in New Zealand," said Wanaka Winter Marketing Group chairman, Bruce McGechan. "These developments are aimed at attracting both international visitors to the region as well as Kiwis looking to get the most out of their annual family ski holiday. The consumer is continuously becoming more discerning in their holiday choices and it's vital the New Zealand ski industry is comparable to the sophisticated overseas markets. An investment of this size will not only benefit the local region, but also New Zealand as an international ski destination."

In addition to the ski area spending, downtown entertainment in Lake Wanaka is becoming more diverse by the month with a number of new bars, restaurants and accommodation options opening or in the planning stages.

"The township has managed to stay within that fine line of giving the consumer what they want without losing its charm," said McGechan. "You can enjoy fine dining, the perfect coffee and excellent shopping but you can also enjoy the spectacular views, the serenity and the relaxed atmosphere - it's the best of both worlds."

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