The arrival of winter signals the start of the much-anticipated Mt Ruapehu ski season 2024!
It’s time to dust off your snow boots and prep those ski jackets for a well-deserved mid-year escape. Gather your loved ones and start planning your adventures because a winter getaway at Mt Ruapehu is like no other.
From thrilling winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding to crafting your snow masterpiece, there’s endless fun to be had. And if the snowy slopes aren’t your thing, there’s a wealth of alternative activities and sights to captivate your senses.
With so much going on, it can be overwhelming to decide what to do. So, we’ve compiled some handy tips to make planning your winter escape a breeze!
Mt Ruapehu Ski Season Dates 2024
Skiing and snowboarding are the quintessential winter activities in the Mt Ruapehu region, attracting enthusiasts from all over the world. Whether you’re an experienced skier or snowboard rider or you want to take advantage of the whole ski season, here are the Mt Ruapehu ski season 2024 dates to keep in mind when planning your trip:
Happy Valley Ski Field Ski Season Dates 2024
- Opening date: 22 June 2024
- Closing date: 29 September 2024
Whakapapa Ski Area Ski Season Dates 2024
- Opening date: 06 July 2024
- Closing date: 13 October 2024
Turoa Ski Field Ski Season Dates 2024
- Opening date: 06 July 2024
- Closing date: 13 October 2024
Ski Passes 2024
Experience the thrill of skiing at Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu with their wide range of ski passes. Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore the slopes or an experienced skier ready for the whole mountain, there’s a pass suited to your needs.
Choose from options that include access to the beginner area or the entire mountain. Pricing varies depending on the pass chosen and whether you want a day or weekend pass.
Additionally, for those who prefer a more leisurely experience, there’s a sightseeing pass available for the incredible Skywaka gondola. And if sledding is your idea of winter fun, there’s a pass for that too!
Please note that for the 2024 season, Whakapapa passes are not valid for accessing the facilities at Pure Turoa.
We recommend visiting whakapapa.com to explore your options and to book your ski passes.
Sightseeing and sledding combo in June
During the weekdays throughout the month of June, take advantage of an exclusive sightseeing and sledding combo offer. Experience a scenic 1.8km journey up and down Mt Ruapehu on the Sky Waka gondola. Afterwards, head to the dedicated sledding zone near Happy Valley and enjoy an hour of sledding fun with your friends and family. This special offer not only provides a thrilling adventure but also saves you up to 30% on these combined activities!
Fun winter activities near Mt Ruapehu
If you prefer a little less snow, these diverse and exciting activities near Mt Ruapehu during the winter season offer a unique opportunity to embrace the region’s beauty and adventure.
Freshwater Fishing
The clean, pristine rivers and lakes surrounding the Tongariro National Park provide an ideal environment for freshwater fly fishing.
Ruapehu Adventure Rides
For an exhilarating experience, Ruapehu Adventure Rides offers quad bike adventures on 200 acres of farmland within Tongariro National Park.
Lord of the Rings
Tongariro National Park has served as the backdrop for the hit franchise, The Lord of the Rings, and the subsequent Hobbit films, making it a must-visit destination for fans of the series.
Rock Climbing
Surrounded by mountains, Tongariro National Park offers an ideal location for an outdoor climbing adventure, catering to climbers of all levels.
Mini-Golf and Quiz Night
Challenge your family to a game of mini-golf at the Schnapps course. Alternatively, you can join Schnapps Bar for their winter weekly quiz nights!
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Considered one of New Zealand’s greatest one-day walks, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing offers 6-8 hours of breathtaking alpine scenery, attracting hikers and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. In winter we strongly recommend a guide to help you through the variable conditions. Learn more here.
Book your accommodation close to Mt Ruapehu!
If you haven’t experienced the magic of New Zealand’s largest commercial ski field at Mt Ruapehu or the vast activities it offers, now’s your chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Just be sure to book your accommodation close to Mt Ruapehu to ensure you’re at the heart of the action!
The Ruapehu Park Hotel team are excited to welcome back seasoned stayers and new adventure seekers, not just from New Zealand, but worldwide! Winter is a bustling time for us as snow enthusiasts flock to our central, high-quality accommodation.
Nestled in the heart of Tongariro National Park, The Park Hotel offers a unique experience that’s hard to match. With our prime location, it’s the perfect base for your Mt Ruapehu adventure.
You’ll experience great views of Mountains Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. The shuttle bus stops at the Ruapehu Park Hotel with multiple stops during the day to and from Mount Ruapehu – Whakapapa and Happy Valley.
Our on-site restaurant and bar and outdoor hot tubs are also extremely appealing to visitors during the ski season. There’s nothing better than unwinding at the bar or in a hot tub after a great day on the mountain.
You can book a room online or call us at the Ruapehu Park Hotel to find out more. We have a wide range of accommodation options for families, friends, or couples wanting a cosy winter getaway!