Everything you need to know about Mount Ruapehu
Mount Ruapehu is located in Tongariro National Park and is New Zealand’s largest volcano. It’s a wonderful attraction whether you are looking to ski for the first time or if you’re ready to buy a season pass and take on the advanced runs.
The History of Mount Ruapehu
Mount Ruapehu has three major peaks. Ruapehu began forming from layers of lava and volcanic material 250,000 years ago. The volcano’s last major eruption was in 1995, and a smaller eruption happened in March 2007. A sophisticated early warning system is in place to ensure safety.
Tahurangi is the tallest peak at 2,797 meters (9,176 feet). J. Park, W.H. Dunnage, and C. Dalin were the first recorded people to climb the highest peak in 1886.
Ski Fields at Mount Ruapehu
In 1913, William Perret Mead and Bernard Drake started skiing on Mount Ruapehu. By 1920, avid skiers were constructing huts on the mountain. In 1929, Rudolph Wrigley built the Chateau.
By 1949, there were thousands of skiers enrolled in skiing clubs and enjoying the mountain. The first Whakapapa chairlift was built in 1959. The Turoa ski field was developed in 1978.
The Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields are New Zealand’s largest. Whakapapa is on the northern side of the volcano, and Turoa is on the southern side. There’s also a club field, Tukino, on the east of the mountain.
Parking and Shuttle
Visitors can either drive all the way to the ski field and park there or take a shuttle from their accommodation or the National Park Village. Parking your own car can seem convenient; however, make sure you check the weather forecast. Your vehicle might need to be equipped with chains or four-wheel drive, depending on the conditions.
Taking a shuttle alleviates the need to have ice capabilities on your vehicle. Many shuttles depart from the National Village or can pick you up at your accommodation.
Shuttles do fill up, so make arrangements in advance whether you are planning on parking or taking a shuttle.
A new parking system allows visitors to book Mount Ruapehu parking online in order to alleviate congestion during peak times on weekends. Visitors should check the ski field’s website for updates and weather conditions before arriving. If you aren’t arriving during a peak weekend, you should be fine to drive up without any drama.
Visitors can catch the Mt Ruapehu Shuttle to get to the ski areas. This is a preferred option when roads are icy. Visitors can catch a shuttle from specified pick-up points or the park and ride in National Park Village. Shuttles often leave hourly between 6 am and 10 am and return between 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm.
Mt Ruapehu Ski Pass
There are several options for getting tickets to ski on Mount Ruapehu.
One of the most economical and crowd-free ways to enjoy the mountain is an unlimited weekday pass. This pass can be used at Whakapapa or Turoa Monday through Friday.
Visitors can get a Multi-Day Ski Pass for up to three days and ski at either Whakapapa or Turoa.
A weekend family day pass is the perfect way to get ski tickets for the whole family to have access to all ski & ride facilities on both sides of the mountain.
Mt Ruapehu Season Pass
If you want to access Mount Ruapehu ski fields for more than just a day or a weekend, check out a season pass. You can purchase a weekday season pass or an anytime season pass. When an adult buys a season pass, they get a free youth season pass. In addition, season pass holders get priority booking for parking spaces. Season pass holders also get four anytime buddy passes that give their friends 50% off a day pass.
Mt Ruapehu Ski Packages
If you need lessons, lift passes, and equipment, check out a ski package. You can get a full-day group lesson package for your kids, or adults can buy an All Mountain Lift Pass and receive group lessons, equipment, and lift passes. You can also buy private and group lessons separately.
Ski Runs at Mount Ruapehu
Ski Runs at Whakapapa
Whakapapa has over 550 hectares of terrain–30% of the trails are beginner, 45% are intermediate, and 25% are advanced.
The east side has stunning views and diverse terrain. The west side is fairly open and provides access to the Black Magic area.
Beginner runs are at the base of the mountain. Intermediate runs are on the upper mountain and require good weather. Advanced runs are mid-mountain.
Happy Valley Mt Ruapehu
Happy Valley is known as New Zealand’s best beginner’s facility. It’s the perfect spot for kids or adults learning to ski. Happy Valley has equipment rentals, a ski school and is focused on learner’s needs. Happy Valley also has its own cafe. This beginner’s area has an easy-to-use carpeted lift, and the chairlift is slow-moving. The slope has a gentle gradient and is nice and long.
Ski Runs at Tūroa
Turoa has NZ’s highest chairlift and its longest vertical run. 20% of Turoa’s trails are beginner, 55% are intermediate, and 25% are advanced.
Turoa’s Alpine Meadow is perfect for beginners. Intermediate skiers can enjoy NZ’s longest vertical, and advanced skiers can access backcountry terrain. Hamilton’s Face draws expert skiers with its changing terrain and steepness.
Ride The Sky Waka
The Sky Waka is one of New Zealand’s most stunning gondola rides. This gondola travels over 1.8 kilometers over Mt Ruapehu’s most enchanting landscape. Riders can admire waterfalls and snow-capped peaks on this modern gondola ride.
Ruapehu Weather Forecast
During the winter, conditions on the mountain can be variable. Skiiers love the days when the weather is crisp and clear. The mountain enjoys heavy snowfall in the winter and the season usually runs from June through October or early November. Mid-October is often a great time to visit as the snow is still good, but the crowds have thinned out.
Before arriving for your ski day, you should check the mountain’s weather by looking at current conditions and the mountain forecast, and then check the ski lift operation schedule.
Enjoy Exploring Ruapehu
If you want the thrill of skiing a stunning active volcano, you won’t want to miss a ski holiday at Mt. Ruapehu. From beginner packages to expert runs, there’s excitement and fun for the whole family.
Book your holiday with Bachcare and enjoy a cosy bach while you enjoying skiing this magnificent mountain.
Famous for its ski fields and great walks, Ruapehu is a popular place for North Islanders to escape. We’ll give you the run-down on the best things to do and places to visit while you’re here.
Standing at the top of a snow-covered mountain, looking at a breathtaking view is one of the must-have New Zealand experiences.
To celebrate the amazing ski season we’re having here in NZ, we’re giving you 20% OFF any weekday bookings of 2 nights or more in the Ruapehu region!
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1) Triple Peaks Eco Lodge
7+2 People | 5 Bedrooms | 2+1 Bathroom | From $355 per night
This 2 storey National Park holiday house includes well appointed, open plan living downstairs. The fireplace is on hand for toasty winter stays as you gaze at the panoramic views, or relax on the generous deck when the sun is shining!
There are 4 bedrooms upstairs at this National Park accommodation. Bedroom 1 includes an ensuite bathroom and is fitted with a queen bed. Bedroom 2 is fitted with a queen bed, and bedroom 3 is fitted with 2 single bunk sets. Bedroom 4 is fitted with a queen bed. There is also a 5th bedroom located downstairs, fitted with a queen bed plus a single bed.
View the full listing for Triple Peaks Eco Lodge here
2) Alta House
8 People | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | From $99 per night
Alta House sleeps 8 guests with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The master bedroom has a queen sized bed with an ensuite bathroom which opens out onto the deck. The second bedroom has a queen sized bed and the third bedroom has 2 sets of bunks. The lounge also has a fold out couch.
This Ohakune holiday house has additional features which include double glazing, gas hot water, a heat pump for instant warmth, unlimited WiFi, Sky Sports, a DVD Player, stereo with an iPod Dock, as well as a drying room with storage for snowboards, skis and clothing. This holiday home also has enough off street parking for 4+ cars.
View the full listing for Alta House here
3) Silver Star Spa Escape
9 People | 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | From $135 per night
This Ohakune holiday home includes comfortably appointed open plan living. Stay snug indoors with a fireplace for toasty winter holidays, or set yourself up on the patio with peaceful surrounds for a relaxed summer break.
Bedroom 1 at this Ohakune accommodation includes an ensuite bathroom and is fitted with a queen bed. Bedroom 2 also has a queen bed plus a semi-ensuite, bedroom 3 has a double bunk set, and bedroom 4 includes a queen bed. This is an ideal option for couples or family groups… A second bathroom ensures an easy group set up.
View the full listing for Silver Star Spa Escape here
4) Park Avenue Ski Chalet
6+2 People | 3+1 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | From $180 per night
This Ohakune chalet is an easy 5 minute walk to the Junction where you can enjoy fantastic dinners at the many restaurants or dance the night away at the apres-ski pubs and clubs – everything you might need is close by!
The sleeping accommodation at Park Avenue Chalet provides an oversized master bedroom situated on the upper level, fitted with a King size bed, and a couch and coffee table to enjoy the views. The other 2 bedrooms are both located on the lower level, and are each fitted with a Queen size bed and electric under blankets. If you do have extra guests there is also a double sleeper couch in the living room. With the rustic wood-burner fireplace you are sure of a cosy nights stay plus there is an additional oil heater, a dehumidifier, and thermal backed curtains to help with a cosier stay if desired.
View the full listing for Park Avenue Ski Chalet here
5) Ohakune Alpine Escape
7 People | 3 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | From $99 per night
Set in a peaceful cul-de-sac only a 3-minute walk to the Junction and mountain shuttle, Ohakune Alpine Escape sleeps 7 people in 3 bedrooms (2 bedrooms with queen beds and the 3rd bedroom has a single over double bunk).
Quality duvet inners, electric blankets & oil heaters are provided. The bedrooms, toilet, shower & laundry are on the ground floor. There is a large open plan dining, kitchen & living area (including TV, DVD player and fireplace) on the upper level with a small outside deck. Sky TV is provided including movie channels.
View the full listing for Ohakune Alpine Escape here
6) Snowed Inn
8 People | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | From $140 per night
This Ohakune holiday home is set on a fully fenced quarter acre section, with cosy open plan living. The fireplace will keep you toasty during winter stays, and there is ample room for enjoying the outdoors during summer stays.
Relax and soothe those tired muscles after a long day of outdoor fun in the brand new spa pool. Unwind under the stars and take in the view of the mountain from the deck.
Each of the 3 bedrooms at this Ohakune accommodation is located off the central hallway. Bedroom 1 is fitted with a queen bed, bedroom 2 is fitted with 2 single bunk sets, and bedroom 3 is fitted with a queen bed. There are 2 bathrooms to complete the indoor set up at Snowed Inn.
This Ohakune holiday home offers a great family set up, with the second bedroom set up as a second lounge room for the kids. With toys, DVDs, bean bags and an Econo heater it is the perfect kid’s hangout. A swing set and plenty of games completes this Ohakune family getaway.
View the full listing for Snowed Inn here
7) The Cosy House
8 People | 3 Bedrooms | 1+1 Bathrooms | From $150 per night
This Ohakune holiday home includes warm and welcoming open plan living on the middle level, with a wood-burning fireplace to complete your winter getaway – take time out, and relax on the couch with a good book or soak your aches away in the spa after a day on the ski slopes!
On the ground floor at this Ohakune accommodation, bedroom 1 has a queen bed, while bedroom 2 includes a double bunk with a single on top. The upper mezzanine area looks down over the lounge, and sleeps 3, on 2 king single beds and a single pop-up trundler.
Enjoy a selection of entertainment at ‘The Junction’, just 5 minutes’ walk from the house, with restaurants, bars, and cafes.
View the full listing for The Cosy House here
8) The Nash
8+2 People | 5 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | From $160 per night
Including a fireplace and two digital heat transfer systems for toasty winter stays, this National Park holiday home has bright and cosy open plan living. A second lounge area offers the perfect set up for larger groups wanting that bit of extra space.
The Nash is equipped with a seperate drying room off the laundry so there is plenty of space to dry everything out and have it ready for the next day!
Stay in and spend time with your group or set out on adventure…
View the full listing for The Nash here
9) National Treasure
9 People | 4 Bedrooms | 2+1 Bathroom | From $285 per night
This 2 storey National Park holiday home includes modern open plan living upstairs – unwind in comfort by the gas fireplace, with generous windows to bring the scenery indoors, or set yourself up on the deck for the ultimate in al fresco living… The spa pool is an ideal year-round addition, or fire up the BBQ for kiwi summers and mountain views! Perfect for larger groups, or simply for those wanting that bit of extra space, a large TV/Rumpus room is located downstairs, including a kitchenette.
Upstairs at this National Park accommodation, bedrooms 1 and 2 each have a queen bed. Downstairs, bedroom 3 has a built-in single bunk set plus a single bed, and bedroom 4 includes a double bed. To complete your convenient group set up, there is a modern bathroom on each floor.
View the full listing for National Treasure here
10) The Station
10 People | 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathroom | From $165 per night
This Ohakune holiday home includes relaxed open plan living, with a wood burning fireplace for the ultimate wither toastiness! Kick back in comfort, with all the basics on hand for a self-catered Ohakune stay… When the weather is warmer, the sheltered porch is a great spot to unwind and enjoy the peace and quiet.
Bedroom 1 at this Ohakune accommodation is fitted with a queen bed, a double bed, and 2 single beds. Bedrooms 2 and 3 each have a double bed, while bedroom 4 includes 2 double beds.
To complete your group set up, there are 2 bathrooms at The Station – ideal for families and couples to have their space.
View the full listing for The Station here
Plan your next ski holiday before the ski season is over!
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Ruapehu Ski Fields
Mt. Ruapehu is the go-to ski destination for the North Island. Whakapapa and Turoa are the two main ski-areas, both suitable for all experience levels.
Turoa
Credit: Wikicommons
Turoa is a south-west facing ski-field that operates the country’s highest chairlift, the ‘Highnoon Express.’ It has a good little magic carpet area for the beginners, situated next to a cafe that sells decent food and coffee (we recommend trying one of their freshly made juices). This ski field also has 12 intermediate runs for the more experienced, and 25 black runs for the advanced skiers.
Whakapapa
Credit: Flickr
Whakapapa is New Zealand’s biggest ski-field. It’s extremely popular and has a leading beginners area. There’s a lot of variety in skiing terrain due to the volcanic nature of Mt. Ruapehu, so you will be spoiled for choice whether you choose an intermediate run or brave an advanced run. Another thing you’ll find here is that the runs are a little more spaced out than the runs at Turoa.
Tukino
Credit: Wikicommons
This ski-field is club-based and is good for those who would rather avoid the crowds. Even though it’s run and maintained by club members, it’s still open to the public. They offer a number of lessons, ski hire and all of the bells and whistles you would expect with a commercial ski field. It’s located on the Eastern side of Mt Ruapehu, which gives it great shelter from those powerful Westerlies.
Find out more about Tukino ski field here.
Ohakune
Ohakune, also known as ‘The Mountain Town’, has got to be the town of choice if you’re heading up Mt. Ruapehu. It’s filled with great cafes and restaurants, and it’s just a 25 minute drive to Turoa and a 45 minute drive to Whakapapa. There’s also a number of activities around here too that don’t involve snow sports – making it a great destination all year round!
Ohakune Old Coach Road.
Credit: Wikicommons
This walk and cycle trail will take you along what once was an operating railroad. The track goes over tall wooden bridges and is surrounded by rimu trees and native falcons. Because nothing is too steep or strenuous, it is a great family walk or bike to do. It takes about 4 ½ hours to go the one-way direction from Horopito to Ohakune if you’re going by foot, and about 2 hours by bike. If you’re walking we recommend sorting out a pickup at the other end to take you back.
Scenic Flights
Credit: Wikicommons
Ruapehu has some stunning landscapes, and there’s no better way to see it than by air. Mountain air volcanic scenic flights offer 3 main volcanic flight routes. You’ll be whisked away in a three or five passenger seat plane and transported across some of New Zealand’s most beautiful volcanic sights. These include Mt. Ruapehu, Mt. Ngauruhoe (Also known as Mt. Doom for you Lord of the Rings fans) and the Tongariro National Park. In the distance you’ll see Taupo, Napier and Mt. Taranaki! If you’re staying around Mt Ruapehu, the closest pick up point is from the Chateau.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
The Tongariro crossing is part of the Tongariro Northern Circuit, one of the nine great walks of New Zealand. You’ll start off on a boardwalk track through the Mangatepopo Valley, and then begin a rather steep ascent to the Mangatepopo Saddle. At the top of this you’ll be between Mt. Ngauruhoe and Mt. Ruapehu, with panoramic views in front of you. Those views only get better as the walk goes on – once you reach the top of Red Crater you’ll be able to see 360 degree views across volcanic landscape. The hike down goes past the idyllic emerald lakes, and as you zig-zag your way back down you’ll smell the sulphur that hints at an active volcano. The walk ends through lush forest. This is a one-way, all day hike, and you can book a shuttle that will drop you off and pick you up at the other end.
Forgotten World Adventures
For something a little bit out of the ordinary, be sure to stop by forgotten world adventures. Here you can go on a self-guided tour by operating your own rail-cart! Along the way you’ll pass rural towns that have been forgotten by time and learn some rich and less-conventional history about New Zealand. You’ll go over 98 bridges and 24 tunnels on the 142 km railway track. Other transport options for this tour is via. a rail-bike (which you can pedal with a buddy) or you can take it off-road with a jet boat tour.
Great Places to Eat in Ohakune
- EAT Takeaway Diner: If you’re low on fuel after a hike or a day of skiing, and can think of nothing better than biting into a large, melted philly cheese steak, then EAT is for you. They have some of the best coffee in the Ruapehu area and a range of treats sure to satisfy even the fussiest taste buds.
- Johnny Nation’s Chocolate Eclair Shop: Got a sweet tooth? There’s a shop dedicated solely to chocolate eclairs with a side of excellent pies and sausage rolls. This is a diet-breaker for sure. They don’t have a website but you should definitely stop by; 78 Clyde St, Ohakune.
- Utopia Delicatessen Cafe: This place is super popular and can get quite busy, but they do amazing burgers and coffee. It’s been around for a long while and both locals and tourists love it. This is another website-less cafe but you can find them down the road at 47 Clyde St.
Find holiday homes in the Mt. Ruapehu area here.
Over to you…
Do you have any favourite spots or things to do around the Ruapehu area? We would love to know your secrets and opinions, so make sure to leave us a comment!
Featured Properties in Ruapehu
Triple Peaks Eco Lodge – National Park
Triple Peaks Lodge is an upmarket 5 bedroom 2 bathroom National Park holiday house. This modern holiday house enjoys expansive decking, spacious living areas, and stunning views overlooking Tongariro National Park!
Carrot Cake Chalet – Ohakune
Carrot Cake Chalet is a 2 bedroom Ohakune ski chalet – a warm, comfortable and well-appointed modern chalet located in the premier Snowmass development among other high quality properties, and within easy walking distance of the cafes, bars, restaurants, and the other facilities and attractions of downtown Ohakune. This property is perfect for your next ski retreat.
Exploring the Ruapehu Region when its raining
Mountain weather in the Ruapehu region can turn drastically and quickly! So what do you do when you can’t get up the mountain? Whether you came to hike the Tongariro Crossing, or slide down Mt Ruapehu’s slopes, there is still plenty of great wet weather options to explore. We’ve pulled together some of our favourite bad weather day activities.
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1. Get out and explore the Taranaki Falls
If it’s not blowing too much of a gale, one of Tongariro National Park’s shorter walks are great to get you out in the fresh air. Ranging from 20 minutes to 7 hours, there are a number of walks to suit every level. Shrug on a rain coat and enjoy the beautiful natural wonders of Tongariro National Park around unexpected bends. The Taranaki Falls is a popular walk and, just a 2 hour return loop from Whakapapa Village. It’s the perfect option when there is a small break in the weather, you won’t be disappointed when you reach the beautiful Taranaki Falls!
Taranaki Falls
Photo credit www.polkadotpassport.com
2. Historical learnings at the Waiouru National Army Museum
Visiting the National Army Museum in Waiouru is a great afternoon adventure. With a unique collection of military uniforms, vehicles, and war exhibitions it’s an excellent walk back in time. It also features a collection of restored tanks at the front of the building, which are perfect for an Instagram shot!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BgLN6C6D7bY/?hl=en&tagged=waiouruarmymuseum
3. Get a photo with the Famous Ohakune Carrot
If you’ve been to Ohakune before, but never seen the iconic Ohakune carrot, have you really seen the town? As well known as the L&P bottle in Paeroa, the Ohakune carrot is a fun stop off for a quick photo and is one of New Zealand’s most-hugged-big-things! There’s also a playground which is perfect for the kids. Once you’ve seen the carrot, it’s just a few minutes walk to the famous Chocolate Eclair shop. Where you must stop and get one of Johnny’s delicious eclair’s!
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4. Board game marathon
If it’s raining cats and dogs and you’d rather not brave the outdoors, then a board game marathon is the way to go. Stay warm in your holiday home and break out Monopoly, Risk, Trivial Pursuit and Pictionary or turn to the humble pack of cards for a good game of Canasta.
Board games at Triple Peaks Eco Lodge
Photo credit www.polkadotpassport.com
5. Explore the mountain bike trails
If the weather is too windy to be up the mountain, but ok down below why not get out on a bike and explore some great trails. Ruapehu is home to many expertly crafted tracks including two of New Zealand Cycleways ‘Great Rides’ – the ‘Timber Trail’ and ‘Mountains to Sea’. With other tracks ranging from 2 hours to multiple days, there is something to suit everyone. Explore the forest and mountain tracks and experience a new side of Ruapehu you’ve never seen before. Bikes and gear can be hired from many places in the area such as Mountain Bike Station. Some also offer tours if you’d like a guide, or just hire the bike and explore yourself!
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6. Have a soak in the Tokaanu Thermal Pools
What better way to warm up on a wet a dreary day, than in a wonderfully hot thermal pool. Situated in the small village of Tokaanu, a 35 minute drive from National Park, the thermal waters of Tokaanu Thermal Pools have been recognised for generations by the local Iwi as having the ‘wai ora’ meaning healing waters. Begin in the private natural mineral pools and when your time is up and pool number called, move onto the large public pool at a slightly cooler temperature. This is also a great spot to bring the kids, with a smaller pool for preschoolers located right next to the main pool.
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7. Snuggle up around the fireplace with a good book
Let’s be honest, sometimes all you want to do on the bad weather day is sit in your deliciously warm holiday home in front of a roaring fire and read a good book! If you’re looking for reading inspiration to bring with you on holiday, check out Whitcoulls Top 100 books.
Fireplace at Triple Peaks Eco Lodge
Photo credit www.polkadotpassport.com
Featured Mt Ruapehu Holiday Home:
Triple Peaks Eco Lodge, National Park
7+2 People | 5 Bedrooms | 2+1 Bathrooms | Wifi
This modern holiday home enjoys expansive decking, spacious living areas, and stunning views overlooking Tongariro National Park! The house includes a well appointed, open plan living downstairs, with 4 bedrooms upstairs. The fireplace is on hand for toasty winter stays as you gaze at the panoramic views, or relax on the generous deck when the sun is shining! Triple Peaks Lodge offers an ideal Ruapehu retreat, with everything you need for a refreshing escape on hand. Take in the peace and quiet with a breathtaking backdrop!
View full listing for Triple Peaks Eco Lodge here.
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