Turoa Ski Resort

Turoa ski resort is located on the southern slopes of Mt. Ruapehu, in New Zealand’s North Island. The resort is known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding terrain, which includes over 500 hectares of skiable terrain. The resort’s elevation ranges […]

Turoa ski resort is located on the southern slopes of Mt. Ruapehu, in New Zealand’s North Island. The resort is known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding terrain, which includes over 500 hectares of skiable terrain. The resort’s elevation ranges from 1,600 meters at the base to 2,322 meters at the summit.

Turoa ski resort offers a range of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, from beginner to advanced. The resort also has a terrain park, halfpipe, and a snow play area for children.

You can visit their website at https://www.mtruapehu.com/turoa/.

What Type of Skiing and Snowboarding Experience is Turoa Ski Resort Renowned For?

Turoa Ski Resort is renowned for its excellent skiing and snowboarding experience, particularly for those who enjoy challenging terrain. The resort offers a wide variety of runs for all skill levels, from beginner to expert, but is especially popular among advanced skiers and snowboarders.

Turoa is well known for its steep and challenging runs, with some of the steepest terrain in New Zealand. The resort has a vertical drop of 722 meters, and its highest point reaches an elevation of 2,322 meters, providing plenty of opportunities for advanced skiers and snowboarders to test their skills.

In addition to its challenging terrain, Turoa is also known for its long season, typically running from late June to late October. The resort receives an average of around 5 meters of snow each year, ensuring excellent snow conditions throughout the season.

What is the Snow Quality like at Turoa Ski Resort?

The typical ski season at Turoa Ski Resort runs from late June to late October. However, the exact start and end dates can vary depending on snowfall and weather conditions.

During the season, Turoa Ski Resort typically has excellent snow quality, with an average annual snowfall of around 5 meters. The resort’s location on the southern slopes of Mt. Ruapehu, which is the highest peak on the North Island of New Zealand, ensures consistent and reliable snow conditions throughout the season.

The snow at Turoa is typically dry and powdery, making it ideal for skiing and snowboarding. The resort has a range of terrain, from groomed runs to off-piste areas, which can offer some of the best powder skiing and snowboarding in the country.

However, as with any ski resort, snow conditions can vary depending on weather patterns and snowfall amounts. It’s always a good idea to check the snow report before planning a trip to Turoa Ski Resort to get the most up-to-date information on snow conditions.

What Types of Ski Runs Does Turoa Ski Resort Have?

Breakdown of the percentages of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs:

1. Beginner runs: Turoa has a variety of beginner-friendly runs, which make up approximately 25% of the resort’s skiable terrain. These runs are typically located near the base area and are marked with green circles.
2. Intermediate runs: Intermediate runs make up around 55% of Turoa’s terrain. These runs are marked with blue squares and offer a range of challenging terrain, including groomed runs, mogul fields, and off-piste areas.
3. Advanced runs: Turoa is known for its challenging terrain, which makes up around 20% of the resort’s skiable terrain. These runs are marked with black diamonds and offer steep, ungroomed terrain, as well as some of the best off-piste skiing and snowboarding in the country.

It’s worth noting that these percentages are approximate and may vary slightly from season to season, depending on snowfall and other factors. Additionally, Turoa also has a terrain park, which offers a range of features for freestyle skiers and snowboarders.

How Many Ski Lifts (and What Type) Does Turoa Ski Resort Have?

Turoa Ski Resort has a total of 5 ski lifts, which provide access to the resort’s skiable terrain. The lifts are a mix of chairlifts and surface lifts, with a range of capacities and speeds. Here’s a breakdown of the ski lifts at Turoa:

1. High Noon Express: This is a high-speed quad chairlift that serves the upper mountain, providing access to some of the resort’s most challenging terrain.
2. Giant Chairlift: This is a high-speed quad chairlift that serves the mid-mountain area, providing access to a variety of intermediate and advanced runs.
3. Parklane Chairlift: This is a fixed-grip quad chairlift that serves Turoa’s terrain park and offers access to a variety of freestyle features.
4. Movenpick Chairlift: This is a fixed-grip quad chairlift that provides access to a variety of intermediate and advanced runs.
5. Alpine Meadow Surface Tow: This is a surface lift that serves Turoa’s beginners’ area, providing access to a range of gentle, beginner-friendly terrain.

 

What Other Features are Available at Turoa Ski Resort?

Turoa Ski Resort offers a range of additional features and facilities for visitors, including:

1. Terrain park: Turoa has a terrain park, known as the Antlers Alley Terrain Park, which offers a range of features for freestyle skiers and snowboarders. The park includes jumps, rails, boxes, and other features, and is serviced by the Parklane Chairlift.
2. Cafés and restaurants: Turoa has several cafés and restaurants located throughout the resort, offering a range of dining options. These include quick-service options for a grab-and-go meal, as well as sit-down restaurants for a more leisurely dining experience.
3. Ski school: Turoa Ski Resort has a ski and snowboard school, which offers lessons for all ages and abilities. The ski school has a team of qualified and experienced instructors who can help visitors improve their skills and confidence on the slopes.
4. Ski rentals: Turoa has ski and snowboard rental facilities located at the base of the resort, offering a range of equipment for hire. Visitors can rent skis, snowboards, boots, and other equipment, with options available for all ages and abilities.
5. Lockers: Turoa offers lockers for rent, providing a convenient and secure place to store personal belongings while skiing or snowboarding.

 

Where Are The Best Places to Stay When Skiing at Turoa Ski Resorts?

There are several accommodation options located near Turoa Ski Resort, ranging from budget-friendly lodges and backpackers to luxury hotels and private chalets. Here are ten recommended options, listed in no particular order, along with a brief description and a link to their website:

1. Ohakune Court Motel: This motel is located in the town of Ohakune, just a short drive from Turoa Ski Resort. It offers comfortable and affordable accommodation, with a range of room options to suit different needs and budgets. 
2. The Powderhorn Chateau: This hotel is located in the heart of Ohakune, and offers stylish and comfortable accommodation, as well as a range of onsite facilities, including a restaurant and bar, spa pool, and gym. 
3. Ossies Motels and Chalets: This accommodation option is located in Ohakune and offers a range of motel rooms and chalets. It is known for its friendly service and relaxed atmosphere. 
4. Turoa Yurt Village: This unique accommodation option is located on the mountain, offering a truly immersive ski-in, ski-out experience. The yurts are fully equipped with all the essentials and offer a comfortable and cosy stay. 
5. The Hobbit Motorlodge: This motel is located in Ohakune and is known for its quirky Hobbit-themed décor. It offers comfortable and affordable accommodation, with a range of room options to suit different needs and budgets. 
6. The Peaks Motor Inn: This hotel is located in Ohakune and offers stylish and modern accommodation, as well as a range of onsite facilities, including a restaurant and bar, hot tub, and sauna. 
7. LKNZ Lodge: This backpackers lodge is located in Ohakune and offers affordable accommodation, with a range of room options, including dormitory-style rooms and private rooms. It is known for its friendly and relaxed atmosphere. 
8. Alpine Chalets: These private chalets are located in Ohakune and offer a luxurious and secluded accommodation option, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. They are fully equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable and relaxing stay. 
9. National Park Backpackers: This backpackers lodge is located in the nearby town of National Park and offers affordable accommodation, with a range of room options, including dormitory-style rooms and private rooms. It is known for its friendly and social atmosphere. 
10. The River Lodge: This lodge is located in Ohakune and offers comfortable and affordable accommodation, with a range of room options to suit different needs and budgets. It is located on the banks of the Mangawhero River, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. 

 

Where are the Best Places to Eat When Skiing at Turoa Ski Resort?

Here are ten popular restaurants and entertainment options near Turoa Ski Resort, along with a brief description and a link to their website:

1. The Blind Finch: This restaurant and bar is located in Ohakune and offers a range of craft beers, cocktails, and delicious pub-style food. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, and is suitable for couples, families, and groups. 
2. Powderkeg Restaurant and Bar: This restaurant and bar is located in Ohakune and offers a range of delicious food and drinks, as well as live music and entertainment on select nights. It is a popular spot for après-ski drinks and dinner, and is suitable for couples, families, and groups. 
3. The Junction: This entertainment complex is located in Ohakune and offers a range of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, including mini-golf and indoor rock climbing. It is a popular spot for families and groups, and has something for everyone. 
4. Utopia Cafe: This café is located in Ohakune and offers a range of delicious breakfast and lunch options, as well as coffee and sweet treats. It is a popular spot for families and couples, and has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. 
5. The Mountain Rocks Cafe and Bar: This café and bar is located on the mountain and offers a range of food and drinks, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is a popular spot for skiers and snowboarders, and is suitable for couples, families, and groups. 
6. Osteria del Toro: This restaurant is located in Ohakune and offers a range of delicious Italian food and wine. It is a popular spot for couples and groups, and has a warm and inviting atmosphere. 
7. Cypress Tree: This restaurant is located in Ohakune and offers a range of delicious Thai food. It is a popular spot for couples and groups, and has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. 
8. The Apres Ski Bar: This bar is located in Ohakune and offers a range of drinks and entertainment, including live music and DJ sets. It is a popular spot for après-ski drinks and is suitable for adults and groups. 
9. Huckleberry’s Sports Bar: This sports bar is located in Ohakune and offers a range of drinks, pub-style food, and live sports on TV. It is a popular spot for groups and is suitable for adults. 
10. The Lolly Jar: This candy store is located in Ohakune and offers a range of delicious sweets and treats. It is a popular spot for families and kids, and has a fun and colourful atmosphere. 

 

What are the Best Bars and Entertainment Venues When Skiing near Turoa Ski Resort?

Here are ten popular bars and entertainment options near Turoa Ski Resort, along with a brief description and a link to their website:

1. The Powderkeg: This bar is located in Ohakune and is a popular spot for après-ski drinks, as well as live music and entertainment on select nights. It offers a range of drinks, including craft beers and cocktails, and is suitable for adults and groups. 
2. The Apres Ski Bar: This bar is located in Ohakune and offers a range of drinks and entertainment, including live music and DJ sets. It is a popular spot for après-ski drinks and is suitable for adults and groups. 
3. The Junction: This entertainment complex is located in Ohakune and offers a range of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, including mini-golf and indoor rock climbing. It is a popular spot for families and groups, and has something for everyone. 
4. Fergusson’s Cafe & Bar: This bar is located in National Park Village and offers a range of drinks and pub-style food. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. 
5. The Kings: This bar is located in Ohakune and offers a range of drinks and entertainment, including live music and pool tables. It is a popular spot for groups and is suitable for adults.
6. The Cypress Tree: This restaurant and bar is located in Ohakune and offers a range of drinks and delicious Thai food. It is a popular spot for couples and groups, and has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. 
7. The Peaks: This bar is located in Ohakune and offers a range of drinks and entertainment, including pool tables and live sports on TV. It is a popular spot for groups and is suitable for adults. 
8. Osteria del Toro: This restaurant and bar is located in Ohakune and offers a range of drinks and delicious Italian food and wine. It is a popular spot for couples and groups, and has a warm and inviting atmosphere. 
9. Huckleberry’s Sports Bar: This sports bar is located in Ohakune and offers a range of drinks, pub-style food, and live sports on TV. It is a popular spot for groups and is suitable for adults. 
10. The Ledge: This bar is located on the mountain and offers a range of drinks and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is a popular spot for skiers and snowboarders, and is suitable for adults and groups. 

 

What Are Some Other Things to Do When Skiing At Turoa Ski Resort?

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Turoa Ski Resort and the surrounding areas offer a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do when skiing at Turoa Ski Resort:

1. Snowshoeing: Explore the beautiful winter wonderland by snowshoeing through the snow-covered forests and mountains.
2. Cross-country skiing: Try cross-country skiing on the 25 kilometers of trails in the Tongariro National Park, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Sightseeing: Take a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
4. Hot springs: Relax in the natural hot springs located in the area, including the popular Tokaanu Thermal Pools.
5. Hiking: In the warmer months, there are a range of hiking trails to explore in the Tongariro National Park, including the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
6. Mountain biking: Take advantage of the area’s beautiful scenery and bike the many trails in the Tongariro National Park.
7. Rafting: For a more adventurous activity, try rafting on the nearby Whanganui River, which offers scenic and thrilling experiences.
8. Local culture: Take a tour to learn about the local Maori culture and history, including visiting the nearby Māori village of Ohakune.
9. Fishing: Go fishing in the nearby rivers and streams, which offer trout and salmon fishing opportunities.
10. Food and drink: Explore the local food and drink scene by visiting nearby restaurants, cafes, and bars for delicious meals and drinks.

These are just a few of the many activities available in the area around Turoa Ski Resort, and there are plenty of options for visitors of all ages and interests.

 

How to Get to Turoa Ski Resort?

Turoa Ski Resort is located in Ohakune, which is approximately 4.5 hours’ drive from Auckland and 4 hours’ drive from Wellington. Here are some ways to get to the resort from the region’s most popular airport, train, and bus stations:

1. From Auckland Airport: The easiest way to get to Turoa Ski Resort from Auckland Airport is to rent a car and drive. The drive takes approximately 4.5 hours and is well-signposted. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight from Auckland to Taupo, which is approximately a 2-hour drive from the resort.
2. From Wellington Airport: The drive from Wellington Airport to Turoa Ski Resort takes approximately 4 hours. You can rent a car from the airport or take a shuttle bus from the airport to Ohakune.
3. From National Park Train Station: The National Park Train Station is located approximately 20 minutes’ drive from Turoa Ski Resort. You can rent a car from the station, take a shuttle bus, or catch a taxi to the resort.
4. From Ohakune Bus Station: The Ohakune Bus Station is located in the center of town, approximately 10 minutes’ drive from Turoa Ski Resort. You can rent a car from the station, take a shuttle bus, or catch a taxi to the resort.

There are also private shuttle services that operate between the major airports and Turoa Ski Resort, which can be arranged in advance or on arrival.

Turoa Ski Resort, located on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu in New Zealand’s North Island, is a world-class skiing and snowboarding destination that offers something for everyone. With over 500 hectares of skiable terrain, including some of the longest vertical runs in the country, Turoa is renowned for its challenging terrain and excellent snow quality. But it’s not just for experts – there are plenty of beginner and intermediate runs to suit all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

Off the slopes, there’s a range of activities to enjoy, from scenic chairlift rides to relaxing in natural hot springs, and exploring the local Maori culture and history. Turoa Ski Resort is also well-served with a range of amenities, including on-mountain cafes, restaurants, and ski rentals, making it a great destination for families and groups.

With easy access from major airports and train stations, Turoa Ski Resort is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable skiing and snowboarding experience in New Zealand.

 

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