Whakapapa Ski Area
Accommodation is available at the base of Mt Ruapehu your choice from B&Bs (Bed & Breakfast), backpackers, Ski lodges, motels 20 minutes from National Park Village is New Zealand's largest, most developed whakapapa ski area on Mt Ruapehu. Within the 600 acre boundary, there are a myriad of options that cater for beginners right through to advanced skiers out to challenge their limits. There are plenty of marked trails but the off piste skiing at Whakapapa is superb.
Whakapapa Ski Area is located on the northwestern slopes of Mt Ruapehu and on a clear day has spectacular views across the central North Island. Whakapapa is renowned for its worldclass beginner facilities in Happy Valley. After recently being enlarged by a third lift, it has become a popular zone for first time ski and snowboarders with its gentle slopes.
With its north facing basin, many steep faces, slopes and gullies, Whakapapa is an adventure playground for those more intermdiate and advanced skiers and boarders looking for some challenge.
Popular annual events at Whakapapa include the G Force Mini X Games, Pepsi Fireworks Spectacular, and the Mt Ruapehu Spring Festival.
Turoa Ski Area
55 minutes from National Park Village.
Turoa offers an unparalleled winter experience for all. The high altitude and south west facing slopes, means plenty of dry winter snow from July until September, and perfect corn snow in October, for ausome skiing and boarding.
Turoa's terrain is nature's answer tot he perfect terrain park. the Alpine Meadow is a gentle, sheltered haven for the first time, while on the upper mountain, tricky chutes and steeps abound to challenge the expert. The wide, open slopes of Turoa provide plenty of great cruising, and the formed Terrain Park give riders a specially designed area to practice their tricks.
Popular annual events at Turoa include the Mardi Gras Big Air, Spring Festival, and the Peak to the Powderkeg multisport race.
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