Adventure Magazine Issue 220

Skiing the volcano: It's easier than it sounds
Like Mt Fuji, Ruapehu rises from a desert
plain and is a stunning site against a clear
blue sky, and it is still an active volcano.
There are three ski fields on Ruapehu, two
commercial; Turoa and Whakapapa and one
club field Tukino. The commercial fields are
serviced by local communities; National Park
Village and Ohakune. The two are operated
together, with a combined lift ticket for both
fields. Together, they are considered to be
the largest ski resort in New Zealand and
possibly the southern hemisphere.
HOMEGROWN
CENTRAL PLATEAU
Whakapapa:
Whakapapa is on the northern side of Mount
Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park. The ski
season is generally from late June to late
October, depending on snow and weather
conditions. The terrain at Whakapapa is
loosely divided up as 25% beginner, 50%
intermediate and 25% advanced. Recently
there have been several significant changes
to this side of the mountain with the
introduction of a multi-million dollar mountain
gondola which makes access quicker and
easier.
Access to the ski field is by Bruce Road, a
two-lane, 6 km (3.7 mi) sealed road. There
is the accommodation on the mountain, but
you need to join a lodge. There is also an
array of accommodation at the mountain
base and National Park Village.
Tukino Club Field
Image compliments of Visit Ruapehu
Tukino:
Tukino on the eastern face of Mount
Ruapehu. The field is a club managed
field, but open to the general public. The
ski area is serviced by two tows and an
over-snow vehicle giving access for skiing.
Tukino is known for its untouched trails,
uncrowded slopes, friendly atmosphere
and good weather. Accommodation is
available at Tukino for those that want to
stay and play, but bookings are essential.
Access is via the Tukino Access Road from
the Desert Road and is suitable for fourwheel-drive
vehicles only during the winter
months. Transport can be arranged by
contacting the ski field.
Whakapapa Ski Field - Image compliments of Visit Ruapehu
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