OVERVIEW:

WELCOME TO TUROA AT OHAKUNE

In the middle of New Zealand’s North Island, the magnificent slopes of Mount Ruapehu rise dramatically from the surrounding countryside. High on the southern slopes of this still active volcano lies Turoa Ski Resort.

Boasting the biggest vertical drop of any ski area in Australasia, Turoa is renowned for its expansive terrain, long runs and superb Spring skiing and boarding. With fast, open slopes leading into winding trails and tricky chutes, Turoa provides thrills aplenty for everyone. For the adventurous, there is a giant area of untracked snow to explore off-trail, including the spectacular Mangaehuehu Glacier. Also try the walk to the crater lake, which takes just over an hour, and provides stunning views. Please check the weather and snow conditions with ski patrol before you go.

OFF-TRAIL AT TUROA

Turoa has about 400 hectares (almost 1,000 acres) of patrolled skiable terrain and almost the same amount again in off-trail skiing. There are three main off-trail areas, all accessed from the top of the Bacardi T-bar.

Taking the Bacardi T-bar, and traversing west at the top (left), you’ll find some absolutely stunning skiing: long, open slopes, wide enough so you can almost guarantee to make your own tracks. Head down the first gully on Slider or just beyond it on Layback and you can pop out the bottom to catch the Moro Race T-bar back up. You can also traverse further west to Solitude or Limit and you’ll have the slopes to yourself. The run down is magnificent with over 4km of pure thrill.

Another option is to head east (right) at the top of the Bacardi T-bar and make for the glacier entrance. After a good snowfall, you’ll find some of the best powder snow in the country in this area. For speedsters, the ‘Speedtrack’ will provide some truly heart-pumping action. The beauty of glacier skiing at Turoa is that the High Flyer quad chairlift will take skiers straight out of the bottom of the glacier and right back up to the top of the Giant. Alternatively you can carry on skiing right back down to the car parks in the base area - a perfect way to end the day!

If you are feeling a little more energetic, take the Bacardi T-bar to the top and head straight up from there to the crater lake at the summit of Mount Ruapehu 2,797m. It takes about an hour but the stunning views and unique scenery are well worth it. The 20 minute glacier ski back down is the icing on the cake.

Skiing off-trail, means you are leaving the patrolled ski area. If you are thinking about trying any of these trails, but in particular the crater lake walk, check conditions with Ski Patrol before you go.

WHAT'S ON IN OHAKUNE

No winter holiday is complete without night life. With more than 25 restaurants, bars and night spots, Ohakune provides heaps of variety to keep even the liveliest night owls entertained. There’s a huge range of accommodation to suit all budgets - more than 20 options - and if you feel like a rest from the slopes, Ohakune has some great alternative activities to keep the whole family amused.

While maintaining its old world character and charm, Ohakune boasts a huge variety of shops, restaurants, bars and night clubs providing entertainment into the wee hours. Plus it has all the essential facilities including an information centre, bank, library, supermarket, petrol station, movie theatre, real estate office, book shop and Lotto outlet!

If you need a change from the slopes, Ohakune offers many alternative attractions. Soothe aching limbs in a spa pool at the sunbeam, or if you want to view the region from a new perspective, Turoa Lodge will take you out on a fun filled 4WD farm bike tour. If you need a dose of retail therapy, the Junction Ski Shop is a good place to start.

CONSERVATION

Turoa Ski Resort is part of Tongariro National Park, the largest National Park in the North Island and the oldest park in New Zealand. The area is a dynamic alpine environment centred around three active volcanos. You can help protect this unique area for future generations by being considerate of the environment and other park users. Take only photos and leave only tracks.

For further information on outdoor activities in the park, call into the Ohakune Field Centre at the foot of the Mountain Road or call 64-6-385 8578.