Mount Ruapehu

Mount-Ruapehu is an active volcano located in the centre of New Zealand’s North Island. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to Whakapapa and Tūroa, the two biggest ski areas in the country. Mount-Ruapehu is easily accessible by car from the main airports, in Auckland and Wellington.

Tūroa 
Wild, majestic and captivating, Tūroa is famous for its unique volcanic terrain and dense snow cover. It boasts the highest cable car in the country (the High Noon Express, a 6-seater express lift), a vertical drop of 722 m and the most extensive snow parks on North Island. Tūroa is, understandably, very important for the local residents, with its epic corridors, bowls and jumps, which make it a favourite with experienced skiers. The resort is open from the end of June until the end of October and, with so much to offer, you’ll never be bored!

Whakapapa
Whakapapa is the largest ski area in New Zealand, covering 550 hectares, and also has the best specially designated beginners’ zone: Happy Valley. The resort offers plenty of variety, from gentle beginners’ slopes to amazing corridors, steep descents and jumps for the more experienced skiers. You’ll have a great time during the day but can also enjoy night skiing and, of course, after-ski fun. The ultra-modern snowmaking facilities allow the resort to remain open longer than any others, from early June to the end of October. Don’t forget to visit Knoll Ridge, the highest café in New Zealand, perched at the summit, overlooking Whakapapa.