New Zealand Ski Fields: Turoa Ski Area
© Turoa Ski Area, Mt Ruapehu
www.mtruapehu.com
Turoa Ski Area is New Zealand's highest ski area, and one of the largest with 500 hectares of patrolled terrain. Turoa is located on the south-western slope of Mt Ruapehu.
Sister field Whakapapa Ski Area is located on the north-western slopes of Mt Ruapehu. Lift passes are valid at both Turoa Ski Area and Whakapapa.
Turoa Ski Area has great variety and terrain for both skiing and snowboarding. Turoa has a safe enviroment for beginners a that is separate from the main ski area. For intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders there are plenty of groomed trails and a 3 huge off-piste areas. Turoa also boasts Australasia’s longest vertical descent at 722m, and the longest run is 4kms long.
Turoa Ski Area has plenty to offer for boarders, talent from the US and Europe have been imported to design and groom the Terrain Park. For beginners there is a beginner terrain park.
In 2004 a lot of money was spent to increasing snow making capacity, and the base area was upgraded. Further investment in facilities were announced in 2006.
Directions
The access road starts at Ohakune Junction. The Junction is at the mountain end of Ohakune. The access road is 17km long, and is sealed all of the way.Drive Times
Auckland to Turoa: 4 hours 30 minsWellington to Turoa: 4 hours
Rotorua to Turoa: 2 hours 45 mins
Taupo to Turoa: 2 hours
Turangi to Turoa: 1 hour 30 mins
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