The Ski Resort
Mt Ruapehu (2,797 meters) is the highest mountain of the North Island. It is home to two of the largest and most famous skiing areas of New Zealand: Turoa and Whakapapa. The ski area Turoa is situated at the South Western face of the active volcano. It offers numerous rewarding slopes, especially for more advanced skiers. Moreover, the area features New Zealand's highest lift: Highnoon Express.
Beginners will enjoy Alpine Meadow area at the base station. A 120 meter magic carpet is located here, making it easy for newbies to get to the top of the beginners area. For a little swift fun in between, check out the sledge slope.
Those who feel confident on their skis can try one of the twelve intermediate runs in the area. Don't forget to ski the absolute highlight of the ski area: the slope from the top of Highnoon Express, the highest point of the resort. Experts will find 25 challenging Black Diamond Runs, as well as two freerider areas, which can also be accessed easily by lifts. Experts should'nt miss the wide powder runs in the Triangle area and by the glacier.
Turoa Lift Plus Terrain Park offers various areas for freestylers of all levels, from absolute beginners to the most advanced experts. The latter may be especially thrilled by the XL jumps of up to 50 ft.
Interesting facts
- Offering 500 ha of slopes and terrain, Turoa Mt Ruapehu is among the 5 largest Ski Resorts in New Zealand.
- Turoa Mt Ruapehu is the the best rated ski resort in New Zealand.
- Elevated between 1,600 m and 2,322 m, the Ski Resort is the highest elevated Ski Resorts in New Zealand. The vertical drop from summit to base is 722 m. The average difference in altitude between base and summit of Ski Resorts in New Zealand is 471 m. Most runs are therefore relatively long.
- Snow coverage is usually best during September, offering an average snow depth of 187 cm at summit elevation and 107 cm at the base. Therefore Turoa Mt Ruapehu is among the 3 ski Resorts with best snow conditions in New Zealand.
- Turoa Mt Ruapehu features 15 sunny days on average per season. The average for all ski Resorts in New Zealand is 27 sunny days. August is the sunniest month with an average of 5 sunny days.
On Mountain Dining
Right next to the beginner's terrain Alpine Meadow you find Alpine Chalet. This place serves coffee, a variety of hot meals, snacks as well as nice cold beer.
Located by Parklane Chairlift, Snowflake Café is known for its excellent burgers, said to be the best in the entire region.
The resort's highest-located café is called Giant Café. They offer sandwiches, sushi, and hot beverages.
Must-Ski Runs
The longest run at Turoa is the 4 kilometer valley run with a drop of 722 meters. It is suitable especially for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Longest Runs
Videos
Activities
The neighbouring ski resort Whakapapa, which is also located on Mt. Ruapehu, is definitely worth a visit. Whakapapa is New Zealand's largest ski resort and offers runs of all different levels.
Getting here
By Car:
Mt Ruapehu is located at the center of New Zealand's North Island, approximately halfway between Auckland and Wellington. The easiest way to get there is by following State Highway 1 towards Waiouru. From there you follow the signs to Ohakune, along Major Road 49. This is where you will find the entry to the ski resort.
Furthermore, shuttle busses are available to take you to the ski resort from Wellington and Auckland.
