Mt Ruapehu features two resorts on either side of the mountain and are available on the same lift pass. Find out what each resort has to offer with our resort guides and trail maps.
- Whakapapa
- Turoa
Whakapapa
Whakapapa is New Zealand’s largest ski area with 550 hectares of incredible terrain, with 43 runs accessed by 12 ski lifts, including the new 1.8km Sky Waka gondola.The beginner zone at the base of the mountain is dedicated to first timers only, with a magic carpet and chair to access mellow terrain. Providing an environment that is protected from the elements as well as from faster intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders.
With 45% of the resort considered intermediate, there are plenty of options for those looking to cruise and improve on technique. Most of the intermediate runs are located at the top of the resort, offering spectacular views however are the first to close in bad weather.
For those more advanced, the resort provides steep chutes, open bowls and big drops, all above the treeline. The volcanic activity on the east side of the resort provides interesting terrain while the west side offers access to some spectacular sidecountry.
Turoa
A decent sized ski resort at 500 hactares, Turoa’s treeless terrain offers a variety of options for most levels and abilities. Offering New Zealand’s longest vertical at 722 metres and the highest lift with the High Noon Express. From the top lift the panoramic views of the North Island are spectacular.With only 20% of the resort considered beginner, it is not ideal for those learning the ropes. What is considered beginner can be challenging as the trail is quite narrow and gets crowded with more advanced skiers and riders heading back to base. Whakapapa is probably more suited for beginners.
With one of the largest intermediate areas in New Zealand, Turoa is perfect for those who want to carve it up on long wide groomers, natural features, drops and gullies. The open terrain allows you to drop off the sides of trails to find gullies and stashes without straying too far.
For the more advanced skiers and boarders, Turoa is the better option of the Mt Ruapehu resorts. With natural half pipes and chutes of ‘Organ Pipes’, while ‘Triangle’ offers a wide open bowl. On a clear day make sure you hike the Mount Ruapehu Crater to enjoy the beautiful views.
Turoa Parks Crew have considered everyone with their well thought out terrain parks. With flat boxes at ‘Wintergarden’, to a 13ft half pipe at ‘Mini Pipe’ and 45ft kickers at ‘Rollercoaster’.
