Ruapehu

Ruapehu is most renowned for being home to two of the largest ski areas in New Zealand: Whakapapa and Turoa. These ski areas offer a wide range of terrain suitable for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Whakapapa is the larger of the two ski areas and is known for its diverse range of terrain, including steep chutes and open bowls. Turoa is known for its long runs and off-piste skiing and snowboarding.

How Long is the Ski Season in Ruapehu? 

The typical ski season in Ruapehu runs from late June to early October, although this can vary depending on snow conditions. The peak season for skiing and snowboarding is generally in July and August when the snow conditions are at their best.

Note: Please check if the Ruapehu ski resorts are open before travelling to ski or snowboard there.

What is the Snow Quality like at Ruapehu?

Ruapehu is known for having excellent snow quality, with dry, powdery snow that is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. 

The region’s location on the North Island of New Zealand means that it can experience some warmer weather, which can lead to wetter snow conditions at lower elevations. However, the higher elevations of Whakapapa and Turoa generally have consistent, high-quality snow throughout the ski season.

What are the Best Ski Resorts in Ruapehu?

Here are the ski resorts in the Ruapehu region:

• Whakapapa Ski Resort

Beginner: Whakapapa offers a dedicated beginner’s area with easy slopes and chairlifts that are perfect for those just learning to ski or snowboard.

Intermediate: There are plenty of intermediate slopes at Whakapapa, including long, cruising runs and some steeper, challenging terrain.

Advanced: Whakapapa is known for its challenging off-piste terrain and steep chutes, which are ideal for advanced skiers and snowboarders looking for a challenge.

• Turoa Ski Resort

Beginner: Turoa has a designated beginner’s area with gentle slopes and easy-to-use lifts, as well as a ski school for those just starting out.

Intermediate: Turoa has a great variety of intermediate terrain, including wide-open groomed runs and some more challenging, off-piste terrain.

Advanced: Turoa is renowned for its steep chutes and challenging off-piste skiing and snowboarding, making it a popular destination for advanced riders.

• Tukino Ski Resort

Both of these ski resorts are located on the slopes of Mt. Ruapehu and offer a wide range of terrain suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

As for what makes these ski resorts attractive and different from other countries, one major factor is their location in New Zealand. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural offerings, making it a popular destination for adventure tourism. In addition, the ski resorts in Ruapehu offer a combination of high-quality snow, diverse terrain, and stunning views that are hard to find in other parts of the world.

Whakapapa is particularly renowned for its challenging terrain, including steep chutes and off-piste skiing and snowboarding. It also boasts the largest lift-serviced vertical drop in New Zealand. 

Turoa, on the other hand, is known for its long runs and varied terrain, including wide-open groomed slopes and challenging off-piste areas.

Both resorts offer a range of facilities and amenities for different types of skiers and snowboarders, including terrain parks and halfpipes for freestyle enthusiasts, as well as backcountry and off-piste skiing and snowboarding for those seeking a more adventurous experience. 

What are the Best Ski schools at Ruapehu?

Both Whakapapa Ski Area and Turoa Ski Area have ski schools that offer lessons for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Here are the websites for each ski school:

1. Whakapapa Ski School: https://www.mtruapehu.com/whakapapa/ski-and-snowboard-school

• Located at Whakapapa Ski Area
• Offers group lessons, private lessons, and multi-day lesson packages for all skill levels

1. Turoa Snow Sports: https://www.mtruapehu.com/turoa/snow-sports

• Located at Turoa Ski Area
• Offers group lessons, private lessons, and multi-day lesson packages for all skill levels, as well as a range of specialty programs including freestyle and backcountry lessons.

Where are the Best Places to Stay When Skiing in Ruapehu?

There are a variety of accommodation options in the Ruapehu region, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury lodges. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top accommodation options, along with their website URLs:

1. Powderhorn Chateau: A four-star hotel located in Ohakune, close to the Turoa Ski Area. Offers a range of room types, from budget-friendly options to luxury suites. 
2. The Crossing Backpackers: A budget-friendly hostel located in National Park Village, with private and shared rooms available. 
3. The Park Hotel: A three-star hotel located in National Park Village, with a range of room types and a popular on-site restaurant. 
4. Ohakune Court Motel: A budget-friendly motel located in Ohakune, with a range of room types and self-catering options available. 
5. Station Lodge: A three-star lodge located in Ohakune, with a range of room types and on-site facilities including a spa and sauna.
6. Tongariro Suites: A luxury lodge located in Ohakune, with spacious suites featuring private balconies and mountain views. 
7. The Peaks Motor Inn: A four-star motel located in Ohakune, with a range of room types and on-site facilities including a restaurant and spa.
8. Skotel Alpine Resort: A three-star resort located in Whakapapa Village, with a range of room types and on-site facilities including a restaurant and bar.
9. Plateau Lodge: A four-star lodge located in National Park Village, with a range of room types and self-catering options available. 
10. Chateau Tongariro Hotel: A luxury hotel located in Whakapapa Village, with a range of room types and on-site facilities including a restaurant, spa, and indoor pool. 

Where are the Best Places to Eat When Skiing in Ruapehu?

The Ruapehu region offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Here are some of the top restaurants in the area, along with their website URLs:

1. The Cyprus Tree: Renowned for its Mediterranean-inspired menu and cozy atmosphere. Suitable for couples and small groups. Mid-range pricing.

1. Station Cafe & Bar: A popular spot for après-ski drinks and casual dining. Suitable for families and groups. Budget-friendly pricing
2. Powderkeg: A lively bar and restaurant located in Ohakune, with live music and a large outdoor deck. Suitable for groups and nightlife enthusiasts. Mid-range pricing.

1. Clemow’s Chalet: A cozy restaurant located in National Park Village, known for its steak and seafood dishes. Suitable for couples and small groups. Mid-range pricing. 
2. Schnapps Bar & Restaurant: A popular spot for après-ski drinks and casual dining, with live music and a large outdoor deck. Suitable for groups and nightlife enthusiasts. Mid-range pricing

1. Osteria Ohakune: A modern Italian restaurant located in Ohakune, known for its wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta dishes. Suitable for couples and small groups. Mid-range pricing

1. Tussock Bar & Restaurant: A family-friendly restaurant located in Whakapapa Village, with a range of New Zealand-inspired dishes and a kids’ menu. Suitable for families and groups. Mid-range pricing

1. Lonestar: A casual dining restaurant located in Ohakune, known for its Tex-Mex menu and lively atmosphere. Suitable for groups and families. Mid-range pricing

1. Matterhorn: A modern European restaurant located in Ohakune, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Suitable for couples and small groups. Mid-range to high-end pricing

1. The Peaks Restaurant: A fine dining restaurant located in Ohakune, with a focus on contemporary New Zealand cuisine and an extensive wine list. Suitable for couples and special occasions. High-end pricing.

Popular Bars and Entertainment Venues When Skiing in Ruapehu

The Ruapehu region offers a range of bars and nightlife options, from casual pubs to lively nightclubs. Here are some of the top bars in the area, along with their website URLs:

1. Powderkeg: A popular spot for après-ski drinks and live music, with a large outdoor deck. Suitable for groups and nightlife enthusiasts

1. Schnapps Bar & Restaurant: A lively bar and restaurant located in Ohakune, with live music and a large outdoor deck. Suitable for groups and nightlife enthusiasts

1. Ruapehu Lounge: Located at Whakapapa Ski Area, this bar offers stunning views of the mountain and a range of drinks and snacks. Suitable for couples and small groups

1. Station Cafe & Bar: A popular spot for casual drinks and dining, with a range of beers and cocktails. Suitable for families and groups

1. The Powderhorn Chateau: A cozy bar located in Ohakune, with a fireplace and a range of drinks and snacks. Suitable for couples and small groups

1. Alpine Sports Bar & Cafe: A casual bar located in Ohakune, with pool tables and a range of drinks and snacks. Suitable for groups and families

1. Kings Bar: A lively bar located in Ohakune, with live music and a dance floor. Suitable for groups and nightlife enthusiasts

1. The Powderkeg: A popular spot for après-ski drinks and live music, with a large outdoor deck. Suitable for groups and nightlife enthusiasts

1. The Schnapps Bar: A lively bar located in Ohakune, with live music and a large outdoor deck. Suitable for groups and nightlife enthusiasts

1. The Spiral: A quirky bar and restaurant located in National Park Village, with a range of drinks and a unique atmosphere. Suitable for couples and small groups

Other Things To Do When Skiing in Ruapehu:

There are many other things to do in the Ruapehu region besides skiing and snowboarding. Here are some popular tourist attractions, entertainment options, and day tours, along with their website URLs:

1. Tongariro Alpine Crossing: https://www.tongarirocrossing.org.nz/

• A world-renowned day hike that takes you through stunning alpine scenery, including volcanic craters and thermal lakes
• Suitable for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers

1. Old Coach Road Cycle Trail: https://www.nzcycletrail.com/trails/old-coach-road/

• A historic cycle trail that takes you through native forest and past historic railway tunnels and bridges
• Suitable for cyclists of all levels

1. Ohakune Carrot Adventure Park: https://www.carrotpark.co.nz/

• A family-friendly adventure park with activities such as mini-golf, giant chess, and a giant carrot slide
• Suitable for families and children

1. National Army Museum: https://www.armymuseum.co.nz/

• A museum dedicated to New Zealand’s military history, with exhibits ranging from WWI to modern-day conflicts
• Suitable for history buffs and families

1. Whanganui River Canoe Journey: https://whanganuirivercanoes.com/

• A multi-day canoe trip down the Whanganui River, with stunning scenery and historic sites
• Suitable for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers

1. Forgotten World Adventures: https://www.forgottenworldadventures.co.nz/

• A range of rail and jet boat tours that take you through remote and scenic areas of the region
• Suitable for adventure seekers and history buffs

1. The National Trout Centre: https://www.troutcentre.com/

• A facility dedicated to the conservation and education of New Zealand’s freshwater fish, with interactive exhibits and a hatchery
• Suitable for families and nature enthusiasts

1. Tokaanu Thermal Pools: https://www.tokaanuthermalpools.co.nz/

• Natural thermal pools with stunning views of Lake Taupo, as well as a range of spa treatments and massages
• Suitable for couples and relaxation seekers

1. Whakapapa Nature Walks: https://www.mtruapehu.com/whakapapa/summer/walking-and-hiking

• A range of easy walks and hikes that take you through beautiful alpine scenery, with stunning views of Mount Ruapehu
• Suitable for outdoor enthusiasts and families

1. The Timber Trail: https://www.nzcycletrail.com/trails/timber-trail/

• A scenic cycle trail that takes you through native forest and past historic logging tramways
• Suitable for cyclists of all levels

How to Get to the Ruapehu region?

The Ruapehu region is located in the central North Island of New Zealand, and there are several ways to get there from the country’s most popular inbound airports, train stations, and bus stations. Here are some options:

1. By air: The closest airports to the Ruapehu region are Taupo Airport and Whanganui Airport. Both airports have regular flights from Auckland and Wellington, which are the two main international airports in New Zealand. From Taupo Airport or Whanganui Airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to the Ruapehu region.
2. By car: The Ruapehu region is located approximately 4-5 hours’ drive from both Auckland and Wellington. If you’re arriving at one of these cities, you can rent a car at the airport and drive to the Ruapehu region. The main highways leading to the Ruapehu region are State Highway 1 and State Highway 4.
3. By train: The Northern Explorer train is a scenic train service that runs between Auckland and Wellington, with a stop in National Park Village, which is located in the heart of the Ruapehu region. The journey takes approximately 6.5 hours from Auckland or 4.5 hours from Wellington.
4. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate services to the Ruapehu region, including InterCity, Naked Bus, and New Zealand Transport Agency. Buses depart from both Auckland and Wellington, with stops in National Park Village, Ohakune, and other towns in the region.

The ski resorts in Ruapehu offer a unique and memorable skiing and snowboarding experience that combines world-class terrain with stunning scenery and a vibrant local culture.