Summer or Winter @ Whakapapa Ski Area & Pure Turoa
Mt Ruapehu: Ski, Board & Explore the Heart of the North Island
Located in the center of New Zealand’s North Island, Mt Ruapehu is home to two of the country’s premier commercial ski fields—Whakapapa and Pure Tūroa.
Just a 4.5-hour drive from both Auckland and Wellington, it’s perfectly positioned for a winter getaway, summer hike, or an alpine escape. Both areas are open over the summer period too a chance to breath in that alpine air and soak up the 180 degree views.
Whakapapa Ski Area- Treat yourself to 'Tea at 2020m' - our take on a traditional high tea at the top of the gondola in the Knoll Ridge Chalet (bookings required)
Pure Tūroa- Freddies Tasting lounge - Offers Cocktails & Coffee, A lar carte menu
Whakapapa Ski Area – NZ’s Largest
Open summer & winter and just 20 minutes from Plateau Lodge, Whakapapa is one of New Zealand’s largest ski areas, offering 550 hectares of volcanic terrain.
Either soak up the views on the Sky Waka all year round or book yourself a winter treat on the slopes
Over the winter enjoy the wide open cruisers and thrilling chutes to natural drops and bumps, there’s terrain for all skill levels:
Beginner: 30%
Intermediate: 45%
Advanced: 25%
Snow play Top and Bottom options
3 Licensed Restaurants
3 T bars
1 Gondola
3 Chairs
2 Magic Carpets
Happy Valley, NZ’s premier beginner area, is a fully self-contained learners’ slope with its own rental hub, ski school, and covered carpet lifts—completely separate from advanced terrain, making it safe and welcoming for new skiers and riders.
🎿 Tip: Book your ski passes online at Whakapapa.com to skip the queues. Collect your pass directly from the mountain ticket kiosks.
🚐 Shuttles to Whakapapa are available from Plateau Lodge, or use your own vehicle to easily explore the wider region.
📍 Weather & Snow Reports:
Turoa Ski Area
Tūroa Ski Area, nestled on the iconic Mount Ruapehu, offers a top-tier skiing and snowboarding experience for all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Known for its expansive terrain, Tūroa showcases some of New Zealand’s most unique volcanic landscapes. With a thrilling 722-metre descent, visitors can explore wide open runs and exciting off-trail options. Combined with breathtaking views of Tongariro National Park, Tūroa truly delivers an unforgettable 'Authentic Alpine Adventure'.
1 x Magic Carpet
722m Vertical Descent
2 x Pomas
2230m Highest Lift Point
4 x Licensed Cafés
4 x Chair Lifts
Your Ski Base: Plateau Lodge
We’re a one-stop shop for your winter escape with everything you need:
Drying room for wet gear
Bag & car storage
Local advice on where to ski, park & play
Shuttle bookings
Ski gear hire across the road
Ski & Board Rentals Nearby
The Alpine Centre – Ski Biz (Directly Across the Road)
From gear hire to snow essentials, The Alpine Centre has you sorted. Offering competitive prices and flexible packages (1 to 5 days), they stock:
Skis & snowboards
Helmets, goggles, thermals, gloves, and more
Sunscreen, sunglasses, beanies & snow accessories
🎿 All equipment is tuned with modern workshop tools after every rental. You're not just another customer here—you’re treated like a valued guest.
Eivins Ski & Board – Waimarino
Located at the foot of Mt Ruapehu in National Park Village, Eivins is your go-to for top-quality ski & snowboard gear.
Open daily from 7am
Open Fridays until midnight
Quick access to the mountain so you can hit the lifts early
On-site servicing and great value rentals
Tukino Club Field – The Wild Side of Ruapehu
Looking for something different? Explore Tukino, a hidden gem on Mt Ruapehu’s eastern slopes. A club-operated ski field, Tukino offers:
Fewer crowds
Epic backcountry terrain
Friendly community vibe
🚗 Access requires a 4WD or arrange transport by calling 0800 885 466. This is skiing the old-school way—raw, rugged, and rewarding.
Whether you're learning to ski, chasing powder, or just soaking in the views, Mt Ruapehu delivers a winter experience like no other.
Let Plateau Lodge be your base—we’ll help you every step of the way. ❄️🏔️