Whakapapa wants a chondola

One lift - a 'Chondola' - from the Top O' The Bruce to 2000 metres. That's one of the ideas for the redevelopment of Whakapapa now that the Knoll Ridge project is complete.

A chondola is a hybrid skifield lift that uses both chairs and gondola cabins.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts managing director Dave Mazey outlined some of the ideas the company is considering, to a group of snow industry people at the annual pre-season briefing recently.

He said gondola cabins were good for sightseeing customers - they offer protection from the elements - which could "vastly increase that market".

Gondolas are heavier and have lower wind restrictions, but offer protection from the elements, and can also be used during the summer for walk-on guests and wheelchairs.

Chairs are quicker and easier for skiers and boarders to load.

Higher on the ski area, the company's long-term plan is to get rid of its T-bars.

Mr Mazey said RAL was looking at a multi-lift resource consent application, for developments over a five-year period.

The application would be for the lift from the base area (the chondola) and a chairlift in the area above the Knoll Ridge Café. Earlier announced plans included an express chairlift in the Te Heu Heu Valley, but Mr Mazey said the "next best investment" the company could make would be a Knoll Ridge Express.

RAL would also like to move the Far West T-Bar eventually, partly for safety - to move it away from possible lahar paths. Mr Mazey said that while the lift accesses some great terrain, the line was too steep and "people don't like it".

He also said removing T-bars would allow better development of terrain parks.

 Ruapehu Snow Bulletin June 2011