Winter in Mt Ruapehu is a time of enchantment and adventure. Tucked away in the heart of Tongariro National Park, this idyllic spot offers a variety of activities that will awaken your spirits and create lasting memories.
From the thrill of skiing down world-class slopes to the tranquility of majestic sights, each experience is a unique testament to the magic of winter in Mt Ruapehu.
Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or seeking solace in nature, Mt Ruapehu has something for everyone.
Before you plan your exciting adventure at one of New Zealand’s most popular destinations, explore our top Mt Ruapehu winter activities that you won’t want to miss!
Skiing and Snowboarding – Unleash your inner snow warrior
Mt Ruapehu is renowned for its world-class ski slopes, attracting snow enthusiasts from all over the globe. With the Ruapehu Ski Season 2024 just around the corner, prepare to embrace the adrenaline rush as you conquer the powdery slopes.
From beginners to expert skiers, there are runs tailored for every skill level. Mount Ruapehu Alpine Lifts (MRAL) operates two ski fields – Whakapapa and Turoa – with 1050 hectares of skiable terrain. Various lifts make accessing runs easier, so strap on your boots, hit the slopes, and let the mountain be your playground.
Discover the thrill of Ruapehu Rush Mountain scenic flight
If you’re seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers breathtaking views of Mt Ruapehu and the Tongariro National Park, look no further than the Ruapehu Rush Mountain Scenic Flight.
This exhilarating adventure will take you to new heights, allowing you to witness the region’s awe-inspiring beauty from a unique perspective. You’ll be treated to panoramic views of Mt Ruapehu and its magnificent crater, towering proudly over the Central North Island.
The flights operate during business hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, providing ample opportunities to fit this incredible experience into your itinerary.
Find out more here.
The Lord of the Rings – Embark on a legendary adventure
Have you ever experienced déjà vu while gazing at the majestic Mt Ngauruhoe? If so, it may be from its prominent role on the silver screen.
Peter Jackson handpicked Tongariro National Park as the mystical backdrop for Mordor in the unparalleled Lord of the Rings films, casting Mt Ngauruhoe as the indomitable Mount Doom.
Inadvertently, the epic movies showcased New Zealand’s awe-inspiring landscapes to the world, aiding the tourism surge. Indulge in your own epic odyssey and immerse yourself in the real-world marvels of Frodo and the Fellowship!
While an official Lord of the Rings tour in the Tongariro National Park area has yet to emerge, the Department of Conservation has thoughtfully compiled a set of coordinates pinpointing the key movie scenes for enthusiasts like you to explore.
Conveniently, all the Mordor filming locations are proximate to the Park Hotel, making us an ideal base to return to after your quest!
Tongariro Alpine Crossing – A must-do winter hike
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a bucket-list hiking experience that becomes even more awe-inspiring in winter. Prepare to embark on this epic adventure through captivating volcanic landscapes, a journey that will leave you inspired and in awe of nature’s grandeur.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is 19.4 km (12 miles) long and is considered one of the best hikes in the world. It features varied and dramatic scenery that you will surely want to capture on camera, keeping your sacred memories forever!
The track is maintained by the Department of Conservation (DOC) to ensure safety for hikers even in winter conditions. It’s best to start early to ensure enough daylight for the hike. In winter (June to October), we strongly recommend a guide to help you through the variable conditions.
We also recommend checking the Tongariro weather forecast on the morning of your trek.
Other winter activities – discover the limitless options
Mt Ruapehu has many winter activities beyond skiing and snowboarding that you won’t want to miss! From horse treks to guided quad bike tours to viewing the glowworms at night, you can explore exciting options in the area.
Visit the Tongariro National Trout Centre at Turangi and learn about fish breeding, catch a fish at one of the nearby rivers or take your family to the Ohakune Railway Museum. The list is endless, and your experience at Mt Ruapehu will be nothing short of memorable.
Stay cozy at The Park Hotel
After a long day exploring the winter wonderland of Mt Ruapehu, there’s no better place to unwind than The Park Hotel. Nestled in breathtaking Tongariro National Park, our hotel offers comfortable accommodations and convenient amenities that cater to your every need.
Beyond our comfortable and cozy rooms, we have hot tubs for you to enjoy after hitting the snow or trails. There’s also an onsite restaurant and bar to enjoy without ever having to head back out into the cold.
With our proximity to all the Mt Ruapehu winter activities, you’ll have easy access to the adventures that await you. Our friendly staff will ensure that your stay is nothing short of luxurious and that your experience is memorable.
Book your stay today at The Park Hotel and let us be your gateway to unforgettable winter experiences.