Skiing / Snowboarding

Mount Ruapehu is home to the North Island's ski fields and Ohakune is the number one location in which to base yourself to experience the slopes. The superb views and runs to suit all abilities are enough in themselves, but the opportunity to ski a live volcano is one that few can pass up!

The annual Mardi Gras festival, the official opening celebration of the Ruapehu winter ski season, is the highlight of Ohakune’s winter calendar, mixing big name Kiwi bands with snow, pyrotechnics and an electric atmosphere!

There is a reason Ohakune has a reputation as the après ski capital of the North Island - it is absolutely the place to be when the lifts close, with a fantastic selection of restaurants and bars plus live entertainment during the winter season.
Mount Ruapehu’s two main ski fields are Whakapapa on the northern slopes and Turoa situated on the southern slopes overlooking Ohakune. RAL operates both fields meaning ski passes can be used on either side of the mountain.

Turoa
In a spectacular setting high on Ruapehu’s south-western slopes, the Turoa ski field is New Zealand’s highest and also boasts Australasia’s longest continuous run. The 1300 acres of groomed trails are accessed by a network of 11 lifts including the 6 seater ‘Express’.

With beginner slopes, 12 mainly linking intermediate runs and 25 black and black diamond runs the Turoa field caters beautifully for all levels of skier. These slopes also feature some fantastic natural half pipes and off piste areas for the more adventurous skiers.
The field is easily accessible in just 20 minutes via the 17km Ohakune Mountain Road and frequent ski shuttle buses operate during the winter season.
www.mtruapehu.com/winter/Turoa/

Whakapapa
New Zealand’s largest ski field is located on Mount Ruapehu’s north-western slopes and features 65 trails including 30 excellent intermediate runs and 24 black and black diamond runs with plenty of interesting natural features including chutes and bowls. Whakapapa is also home to New Zealand’s premiere dedicated beginner area, Happy Valley.

Whakapapa is also the location for the annual Extreme Competition which sees international competitors descend upon the slopes to conquer the challenging volcanic terrain.
Whakapapa ski field is 45 minutes’ drive from Ohakune and regular ski shuttle buses operate during the winter season.
www.mtruapehu.com/winter/whakapapa/