Snow no-go

THE ski industry says visa restrictions keeping skilled overseas staff out of the country are causing major problems. . Ruapehu Alpine Lifts chief executive officer Jono Dean said the sector had been waiting months for Immigration to act. ‘‘It’s seriously threatening our ability to open parts of Mt Ruapehu’s ski fields this winter. We’re not the only ski area to be in this situation, the South Island ski fields are in exactly the same position.’’

In May Government announced intended immigration reforms, which would see them turn down the tap on temporary and skilled migrant workers, opening the door for high-roller investors and workers.