Turoa Ski Area is situated on the south-western slopes of Mt. Ruapehu located on New Zealand’s North Island. Mt. Ruapehu is an active volcano and is the highest point on the North Island. Turoa is known for having the largest vertical drop in New Zealand with a high elevation and consistent dry snow.
Turoa treats visitors to spectacular views from high atop Mt. Ruapehu and offers terrain for all ability types. Turoa is operated by Ruapehu Alpine Lifts and a lift ticket also grants visitors access to Whakapapa Ski Area.
Rising head and shoulders above the Central North Island, Turoa boasts the largest vertical drop in Australasia; no wonder they call Turoa "The Giant." The south facing slope gets plenty of dry powder during the season making Turoa a perfect alpine playground for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.
Beginners have an exclusive learning that is separate from the main ski area. The Alpine Meadow, located at the base, is a great place for beginners to learn.
Intermediate skiers and riders will find excellent groomed terrain via Australasia’s highest chairlift. Turoa Ski Area offers advanced skiers and snowboarders with lift accessed backcountry terrain, natural half-pipes, and chutes. Expert riders should check out Hamilton’s Face for great steep, ever-changing terrain, with multiple features to explore.
After a day of challenging black runs, finding the secret powder stashes, and going big in the natural half pipe, Turoa's visitors and locals head down the mountain to Ohakune to dine, relax and re-live the day's adventures.
Turoa Ski Area has ski school, ski hire and rentals, multiple restaurants and gift shops.