Mount Ruapehu Ski Resort

Mt Ruapehu is world-renowned skiing destination due to its most remarkable natural skiing and snowboarding terrain not to be found anywhere in New Zealand the country – all thanks to its big snowy basins, steep shafts, drop-offs, and concealed powder piles. Mount Ruapehu, geographically, is one of the most active stratovolcano in the world situated at the southern end of the Taupo Volcanic Zone. In the North Island region, the volcano’s slopes are the only locations to offer major skiing fields and glaciers.

Regarded as the largest active volcano in the country, the mountain boasts the highest point in the North Island and has three peaks namely, Tahurangi (2,797 m), Te Heuheu (2,755 m), and Paretetaitonga (2,751 m) in between which the deep, active crater is filled with a crater lake. Mt Ruapehu is the largest volcano that is quite superb along with the other two to adorn the Tongariro National Park, a World Heritage Park boasting stunning natural beauty and cultural significance assuring a totally unique experience for skiing and snowboarding.

Mount Ruapehu is the home to New Zealand’s highest lift access at 2,322 m, largest ski area – 1800 hectares of lift-accessed terrain, and the longest vertical drop in Australasia at 722 m. The elevation point is at 2,797 m. It currently offers two commercial fields namely, Whakapapa to the north and Turoa on the south slope, regarded as the two largest ski fields in the country. But, between the two, the former is the larger one. The private Tukino ski field is to the east. All the ski fields are reachable by car and chairlifts, which offers beginners’ to advanced slopes. In short, it has something for each kind of adventurer – unbelievable learner support, terrain parks for snowboarders and free skiers of all levels, and the ideal spring skiing in the country.

Season

June to October, but subject to the availability of snow and weather conditions

Skiing Areas

The Whakapapa Ski Area, on the north western slopes, is famous for its spectacular views throughout the central North Island on a clear day and its ideal beginner facilities in the Happy Valley. Just drive for 6 km from the Bruce Road at Whakapapa Village to be at the base of Whakapapa Ski Area. Today, it is preferable for the first time ski and snowboarders – all thanks to its wide gentle slopes. The region itself offers separate ski hire facilities and a 120-seat cafeteria to maintain the energy all 24 hours. Right from the beginners to the advanced who are seeking some challenge, Whakapapa offers several steep faces, slopes, and gullies as its north faces the basin. It features 900 hectares of lift accessed skiable terrain, 5 on-mountain licensed cafes, more than 30 groomed trails, excellent beginner aid with a rental and teaching area, and ski/board lessons for all ages. For skiing, the highest point is at 2322 m above the sea level.

The Turoa Ski Area, on the south western slopes, offers some breathtaking views towards Mt Taranaki. To reach its base, you need to drive 17 km from the Mountain Road above Ohakune village. This area boasts the country’s best Terrain Park. It features 900 hectares of lift accessed skiable terrain, 3 on-mountain licensed cafes, more than 22 groomed trails, full time half pipe, and babysitting referral service. In addition, the highest point is at 2322 m above the sea level.

At both the areas, you can find latest rental equipment, workshop and ski/board tuning facilities, snow school lessons available for all ages and abilities, full time Terrain Park, and snowmaking amenities.
Flight and Train Services

By Air, Fly My Sky offers four engine aircraft accommodating nine people servicing between Auckland Airport and the Chateau airfield at the foot of Whakapapa. It is only one hour flight, which enabled you to be on the mountain by 9 am and return to Auckland by 6 pm.

Transcenic offers the Overlander passenger train service running between Wellington and Auckland. It has a halt in both National Park Village and Ohakune. In winter, it runs on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Distance/Time from Cities

Accommodations

Limited stay and refreshments can be found at Top o’ the Bruce atop the Bruce Road and at the Whakapapa entry. Alpine huts are also available for climbers.

• The Peaks Motor Inn between the fields – $95.00 – $199.00
• Snowy Waters Lodge – 30 minutes from Turoa and 45 minutes from Whakapapa – $30.00 – $35.00
• Oreti Village Resort – 45 minutes from Whakapapa – $190.00 – $280.00
• Turoa Ski Lodge – $35.00 – $430.00