News from New Zealand: Get Ready for the Merino Muster at Snow Farm!
The cross-country skiing season is in full swing at New Zealand’s Snow Farm, and conditions couldn’t be better for the upcoming Merino Muster. With a recent fresh snowfall of over 20cm adding to the 60cm base from the start of the season, the trails are primed for an exceptional event. If you’re planning to experience cross-country skiing in New Zealand, here’s everything you need to know about the Merino Muster and Snow Farm.

Top Athletes and Exciting Events
The Merino Muster is set to attract top skiers from around the globe, including the current world champion Jessie Diggins and her teammates. They have already registered for the event, promising an exciting competition on August 31st. Additionally, the Mini Merinos will have the chance to race alongside Jessie in their 1 km event. New this year is the Mini Sliders category, welcoming kindergarten-age skiers under six years old to join the fun.

Achieving Worldloppet Master Status
This year’s Merino Muster will be particularly special for several skiers, including Alice Moran, who is set to become New Zealand’s first female Worldloppet Master after completing the Kangaroo Hoppet. Nineteen current Worldloppet Masters have signed up for the race, highlighting its significance within the international cross-country skiing community. Passport holders are encouraged to contact the Worldloppet office if they are on the verge of achieving Race Master status. Presenting these certificates at the welcome dinner and prize-giving ceremony is always a highlight of the event.

Accommodation and Hospitality
Wondering where to stay during your visit? The Wanaka Hotel, located in the heart of Wanaka’s CBD, offers convenient and comfortable accommodation. Secure your room and arrange all your transportation needs from the airport to the event. Booking is easy through the accommodation section on Merino Muster’s website.
The welcome dinner promises to be an unforgettable evening. Guests will enjoy a traditional merino roast and entertainment, with tickets available through the shop on our entry system. The local tourist association will also present on the rare alpine flora of the Pisa range, where the race course is located, highlighting its botanical importance. Did you know that New Zealand had almost no native fauna before European arrival? This unique aspect of NZLs natural history is reflected in the flourishing birdlife, many of which are flightless.
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