Turoa Ski Area Piste Map

Whakapapa Ski Area Piste Map

Ruapehu has three ski areas on it's slopes - two commercial resorts and a 'club field'.

Turoa has some exciting terrain and the biggest vertical drop in Australasia - 72m (2,360ft).

Whakapapa, New Zealand's biggest and most challenging ski area, isn't all crags and cliffs - it also prides itself on some of the best nursery slopes in the country.

On the eastern side, the third ski area has one of the most difficult approach roads in the country - the last 8 km are only possible with a four wheel drive and chains!

Getting There:
Wellington: 290km (180 miles).
Taupo: 100km (62 miles).
Auckland: 240km (150 miles).
All have airports. Bus and train services available from Auckland.
Whakapapa to Whakapapa Village: 6km (4 miles).

Height:
Whakapapa: 1,630 - 2,300m (5,350 - 7,550ft).
Turoa: 1,600 - 2,320m (5,250 - 7,610ft).

No of Lifts:
Whakapapa: 14; Turoa: 9.

Types of Pistes:
Whakapapa: 10% beginner, 40% intermediate, 50% advanced.
Turoa: 10% beginner, 70% intermediate, 20% advanced.

Main Advantages:
Large variety of terrain; interesting volcanic landscape; good boarding facilities.

Drawbacks:
Skiing above the tree line can be exposed to wind; no slopeside accommodation at Tuoa; attracts foul weather.