
Whether it’s on the mountain or off the mountain, Ruapehu is a top spring destination that delivers the best of the season. Showcasing two national parks in the heart of the Central North Island amidst cosy mountain towns, alpine villages, and riverside settlements, Ruapehu reigns for adventure seekers, nature lovers and intrepid travellers.
Image Steve Dickinson taken 31/08/23
Ski the deepest snow base in the world
While it may come as a surprise to some, spring represents the best part of the season for many skiers and snowboarders, especially on Mt Ruapehu. And this spring is shaping up to be one of best in Mt Ruapehu’s recent history. With a snow base exceeding 2.5m at Tūroa Ski Area (the deepest in the world as of end-August), and 1.5m at Whakapapa Ski Area, the vast and diverse, natural volcanic terrain is already laden with the good stuff. Across both ski areas, 17 lifts are currently spinning, giving full access to the 1,050 hectares of epic free ride terrain, with everything from cruisy groomers to natural gullies, chutes, bumps, and drops on display. While there’s still a chance of a powder day heading into spring, as the days get warmer and the sun kisses the slopes for longer each day, at Mt Ruapehu we start to see more crisp, bluebird days, and the ever elusive “spring corn” – soft and forgiving, and all kinds of fun. So pack away your heavy winter gear but definitely not your skis and snowboards – at Mt Ruapehu, we’re just about to enter a whole new level of fun.
Credit Francesco Scarselli
What’s new and what’s back for more
Other local attractions and experiences reopening this spring include riding the rail carts with Forgotten World Adventures, top of the world dining at the Chef’s Table at Blue Duck Station (photography weekend 15-17 Sept still taking bookings) and the return of a full range of activities on the Whanganui River ranging from jetboating, fly fishing, canoeing and kayaking as well as over 500 km of cycle trails to explore.
image credit @studiozag
Image credit Visit Ruapehu
With a busy calendar of events ahead including the brand-new Ohakune Blues & Roots Festival – this family friendly event is set to wow the crowds on Sat 7 Oct. with an incredible line-up of musicians delivering soul-stirring melodies and foot-stomping rhythm, it’s the perfect season to make your way to Ruapehu.
Start planning your spring getaway at www.visitruapehu.com