What impact would there be on skiers if the two major North Island ski fields, Whakapapa and Turoa, were owned by the same company?

That is the question the Commerce Commission must answer now that the owner of the Whakapapa ski field, Ruapehu Alpine Lifts Limited (RAL), has applied for clearance to acquire Turoa Ski Resort Limited.

The Commission's Commerce Act Manager, Geoff Thorn, said that the Commerce Act prohibits business acquisitions that result in dominance being acquired or strengthened in any markets.

Under the Act, RAL would be dominant if it could change prices and conditions without its competitors and customers being able to react in ways that would significantly constrain it.

Mr Thorn said that there are two key questions the Commission must answer: What are the relevant markets? and what impact would the proposal have on those markets?

"The questions are easy to ask," Mr Thorn said, "but the answers are seldom simple."

The Act gives the Commission 10 working days in which to make a decision but allows for extensions if necessary. Working day 10 is May 28.

Copies of RAL's application are available from reception at the Commission's Wellington office, level 7, Landcorp House, 101 Lambton Quay.

Media contact: Commerce Act Manager Geoff Thorn

Phone work (04) 498 0958

Communications Officer Vincent Cholewa

Phone work (04) 498 0920

Commission media releases can be viewed on its web site www.comcom.govt.nz