After the successful inaugural event in 2009, the games will now 16 unadulterated days of snow and ice sports and should bring in a huge number of athletes from around the world.
Chairman of the Winter Games NZ, Sir Eion Edgar, announced that the games are confirmed after all the key government partners signed off on the event.

For the main freeski events, it seems the best place ti be is Cardrona, which will hold 2 out of the 4 events. The Freeski Halfpipe and the Ski Cross will be in Cardrona with the Slopestyle at the Remarkables and the Big Air contest at Coronet Peak.

If the 2009 event is anything to go by then the continuation into 2011 is set to be incredible. I’m sure that the big names from overseas will be visiting as well as the home grown talent. Not to mention everyone’s favourite kiwi family, the Wells brothers should be there in full force.

Keep your eyes peeled for this event next year!

Here’s their press release:

The celebrations were marked by a closing ceremony that featured aerials, a parade of nations down the mountain and the New Zealand Prime Minster before a final closing by Ngai Tahu elder Sir Tipene Regan and a celebratory fireworks display.

Over 800 athletes, 40 countries, 400 volunteers and 37 events over 10 days marked the first 100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games which was heralded a success by athletes, stakeholders and organisers alike. Winter Games NZ chairman, Sir Eion Edgar, said that it had been a fantastic 10 days and it was a credit to the athletes who had made these Games an outstanding world class event. He then presented the award for the top performing country of 100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games to Canada who won 10 gold, 12 silver and 10 bronze medals. The USA was runner up, followed by Japan.

Prime Minister John Key said he was proud to showcase New Zealand to the international athletes and it was testament to the commitment of the athletes that they were prepared to compete in spite of challenging weather conditions. He also paid tribute to the many volunteers who were instrumental to the success of the event and went on to indicate his support of the 2011 100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games.