about the area

ski areas

Whakapapa Ski Area

Approximately 20 minutes from Adventure HQ, Whakapapa is New Zealand's largest, most developed ski area. Within the 600 acre boundary, there are a myriad of options that cater for beginners right through to advanced skiers out to challenge their limits. There are plenty of marked trails but the off piste skiing at Whakapapa is superb.

Whakapapa Ski Area is located on the northwestern slopes of Mt Ruapehu and on a clear day has spectacular views across the central North Island. Whakapapa is renowned for its worldclass beginner facilities in Happy Valley. After recently being enlarged by a third lift, it has become a popular zone for first time ski and snowboarders with its gentle slopes. With its north facing basin, many steep faces, slopes and gullies, Whakapapa is an adventure playground for those more intermdiate and advanced skiers and boarders looking for some challenges.

Download Whakapapa Trail map (2.33 Mb pdf)

Turoa Ski Area

Approximately 1 hour and 15 mins from Adventure HQ, Turoa Ski Area offers an unparalleled winter experience for all. The high altitude and south west facing slopes, means plenty of dry winter snow from July until September and perfect corn snow in October, for awesome skiing and boarding.

Turoa's terrain is nature's answer to the perfect terrain park. The Alpine Meadow is a gentle, sheltered haven for the first timers, while on the upper mountain, tricky chutes and steeps abound to challenge the expert. The wide, open slopes of Turoa provide plenty of great cruising and the formed Terrain Park give riders a specially designed area to practice their tricks.

Download Turoa trail map (3.13 Mb pdf)

Tukino Ski Area

Discover the eastern slopes of Mt Ruapehu and have a unique skiing and boarding experience on the Tukino Ski Field.

Tukino offers you the chance to get away from the hectic and commercial based ski fields and really explore the slopes.

Cat Skiing is NOW up and running. Enjoy some of the best skiing you will have ever experienced. Fresh lines, wide open faces, just stunning conditions.

Tukino trail map