MOUNTAIN CAR  PARKS PROVIDE CLOSE UP VIEWING AT SILVERSTONE RACE TO THE SKY

Special spectator viewing areas at key spots on the Silverstone Race to the Sky track on the Waiorau Snow Farm Road, are being opened up for the first time this year, to allow race fans to get closer to the action.

The Easter event always attracts big crowds and event promoter Grant Aitken says they want to provide something a bit different this year.

"We want spectators to be more involved and we are sure there are lots out there who will be keen to get nearer some of the more exciting parts of the course."

Four mountain carpark sites have been identified catering for a maximum of 100 cars and 60 four wheel drive vehicles.

"Some of these sites will allow viewing from cars but in most cases people will be able to park their vehicles and set up a picnic spot overlooking the course, about 50metres away."

The exclusive road passes are now on sale. Full day and half day passes are on offer for both practice day (April 15) and the main race day on Sunday (April 16).

A full day road pass costs $40 a vehicle and a half day $20, in addition to standard gate pass fees.

Mr Aitken says people using exclusive road passes will assemble at designated points to travel up the hill climb road to the mountain car parks.

"People will need to be there on time because of the nature of the event. Once racing starts there will be no chance of getting up the hill."

Marshalls will be at all the mountain carparks to ensure safety throughout the event but Mr Aitken does not envisage any issues.

"This is the ninth year of the Silverstone Race to the Sky and we have some very loyal fans out there. I think many of them will be keen to take advantage of this opportunity to

watch the race from a different spot rather then on the banks in the main arena. I am pleased to be able to provide something different this year and look forward to seeing lots of spectators up on the hill."

The 2006 Silverstone Race to the Sky is scheduled for Easter Weekend April 15 and 16 at  The Snow Farm in the Cardrona Valley, close to Queenstown and Wanaka.

Gates open from 7.30am on both days . Gate admission $35 per adult, school children $10 and under 5’s free. Gold Pass $125.