Mount Ruapehu - New Zealand

Mount Reapehu - New Zealand

MT RUAPEHU

Mount Ruapehu is a semi-active volcano located in the middle of New Zealand’s North Island. This huge mountain has New Zealand’s largest and most developed ski areas; Whakapapa on the northwest slopes and Turoa on the southwest slopes, combining to provide nearly 1,800 hectares (4,448 acres) of terrain on the same liftpass. By road, drive time between the two resorts is around 60 minutes.

As a large, exposed mountain you need to be aware Ruapehu is affected by varying weather conditions. The season usually runs from late June to the end of October with spring having some of the best conditions.

Consider our advice and leave a day free for sightseeing; Mount Ruapehu is part of a unique and interesting volcanic national park, the natural thermal pools of Tokaanu are only a short drive and Rotorua, New Zealand’s unique thermal, geyser and mud-pool centre is only two hours drive.

WHAKAPAPA

Whakapapa, on the north-western slopes of Mt Ruapehu, is New Zealand’s largest developed ski area. Within the 550 hectare (1360 acres) boundary there is excellent skiing and boarding for all levels. Whakapapa boasts all services and amenities that you would expect to find at any international ski area. Happy Valley is a complete learner’s area that is separate to the main ski area so beginner’s can progress in a safe environment.

There are 30 groomed trails and a huge variety of off-piste areas which intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders will love. As snowboarding and freeskiing have literally reached new heights, we are catering to these riders by building special features to keep them entertained. This year the Moro Halfpipe will be back as well as a beginner to intermediate Terrain Park.

For non-skiers who don’t want to miss out on playing in the snow there is a tobogganing and tubing area for your sliding pleasure! Whakapapa lift passes are also valid at Turoa.

TUROA

Turoa Ski Area offers an exciting snow experience for all the family with an excellent variety of terrain to suit all levels of skiers and boarders. Turoa is the highest ski area in New Zealand with 9 lifts giving access to 500 hectares (about 12 00 acres) of patrolled terrain. If you want to get off the groomers, we have 3 main off-piste areas that strong skiers and riders will enjoy. And if you want to turn your legs into jelly, we have a run that is 4kms long! Turoa also boasts Australasia’s longest vertical at 722m!

During the 2004 winter season they invested a lot of money into increasing our snow making capacity. Given proper conditions, they are now able to make snow as far up as the Wintergarden. In addition they have totally remodeled the base area to make it easier to get around. Like Whakapapa, the beginner area at Turoa (Alpine Meadow), is separate to the main ski area so beginners can learn in a safe environment. However, strong skiers and boarders aren’t neglected….we have a huge variety of terrain, from open runs to gullies and cliffs. Freestylers on one or two planks will love what we have planned for this year. Our wicked Terrain Park will be back and it will be better than it ever has been due to the fact that they have imported talent from the US and Europe to design and groom the Park and considerable resources are being set aside to make sure it remain epic throughout the season.