BMW Snow and Ice Experience 2024 conquers one of New Zealand’s most popular ski destinations

Apart from being known for its world-class ski resorts, Cardrona in New Zealand happens to have one of the region’s leading automotive winter testing facilities, the Southern Hemisphere Proving Grounds. One such marque who has utilised the said grounds is BMW, which decided that the snow-covered landscape would be the ideal location for its curated driving concept, the BMW Snow and Ice Experience 2024.

Held from August 20 to 29, the event would gather participants from all over the world, driving with the BMW lM3, M3 Touring and X3 M40i amidst the dramatic mountains of Cardrona. The experience was available in two different packages, the BMW M Snow & Ice Experience Premium Package and Luxury Package.

The former provides drivers with a full day of enjoying the testing facility. Meanwhile, the latter offers all these for three days and two nights, plus a stay at the five-star Millbrook Resort. This ultra-luxe package even came with a private helicopter to fly guests in and out of the proving grounds and their accommodation.

Joining drivers during the event were BMW staff from Australia and New Zealand, as well as driving instructors from Track Time Driving Academy, who provided an introductory presentation on driving basics, safety and driving theory in Winter conditions. Equipped with exclusive Blizzak LM005 winter tyres, each vehicle went through a total of 16 testing routes. Drivers were asked to go through several handling tracks, snow and ice circles and varying terrain flats.

“You have the opportunity to collaborate with top-tier driver trainers who will teach you how to master high-performance BMWs,” Boulevard’s Global PR, Commercial & Partnerships Director Lachlann states. “The experience includes an advanced winter technique and handling course, hands-on drift and drag sprint exercises and an exhilarating M3 instructor ride, ensuring a comprehensive and thrilling learning adventure.”

Drivers ended up performing four drills, including BMW’s iconic Snow Drift and the Motorkhana Circuits, where individuals tested their manoeuvring ability under slippery conditions. Participants, of course, also received an official BMW M Driving Experience Certificate to commemorate their remarkable adventure.

“This is an experience you will remember for the rest of your life as you land on the ice with a row of M Cars just waiting to be enjoyed,” says Macdonald. “The experience is unforgettable and will leave you excited about the BMW brand and what their cars can do. It was a pleasure to meet like-minded people from across the globe, whether they’re in Australia or Singapore.

Learn more about the BMW M Snow and Ice Experience by visiting BMW.

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