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TOURISM

Crunch time: Ohakune's iconic carrot becomes New Zealand's largest mascot

Saturday 27 August 2011, 5:03PM

By PPR New Zealand

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Ohakune's iconic carrot has its new look unveiled.
Ohakune's iconic carrot has its new look unveiled. Credit: Robert Milne, Ruapehu Bulletin
From left to right: Don Cameron, Deputy Mayor, Bruce Rollison Vegetable Growers Association and Andy Donald ex All Black and local farmer unveil New Zealand's largest mascot.
From left to right: Don Cameron, Deputy Mayor, Bruce Rollison Vegetable Growers Association and Andy Donald ex All Black and local farmer unveil New Zealand's largest mascot. Credit: Robert Milne, Ruapehu Bulletin

OHAKUNE

Ohakune’s famous carrot is sporting a new look in support of the All Blacks.

The popular ski hub is gearing up for rugby’s biggest event by donning the iconic carrot in an all-black jersey complete with silver fern. The makeover will showcase the town’s support for the All Blacks as tourists and holiday makers gather at Mt Ruapehu for the snow season.

Mike Smith from Visit Ruapehu says the all-black carrot is a great way for the snow community to get behind the All Blacks and participate in the tournament.

“Thousands of people come to Ohakune every year to enjoy the world-class skiing at Mt Ruapehu and we expect a fantastic response from international tourists, rugby fans and locals alike to the carrot’s new look.

“Ohakune is on the way to some of New Zealand’s most popular locations and we are excited to be the home of such an iconic supporter of the All Blacks.”

Kiwi paint company Resene will be providing the black paint and reverting the carrot back to its original orange glory after the tournament.