Ohakune

Manawatu-Wanganui Region

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Turoa Ski Area is located on the southwestern slopes of Mt. Ruapehu in Manawatu-Wanganui, New Zealand, within the dual World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park. With a base elevation of 1,600 meters and a summit reaching 2,322 meters, it boasts the largest vertical drop in Australasia at 722 meters. The resort spans 500 hectares (1,236 acres) of skiable terrain, offering 38 trails served by 7 lifts, including high-speed sixes, quad chairs, triple chairs, and surface lifts. Annual snowfall averages 183 cm, and snowmaking ensures reliable coverage across key trails. The trail breakdown includes 11% beginner, 29% intermediate, 53% advanced, and 8% expert terrain. Families will appreciate the Alpine Meadow beginner zone, which is separated from the main ski area for safety and ease. Turoa also features 9 terrain parks and a halfpipe, making it a playground for freestyle riders. The High Noon Express chairlift reaches the highest lifted point in New Zealand, offering panoramic views across the North Island and access to wide trails and volcanic bowls. Visitors choose Turoa for its dramatic alpine setting, diverse terrain, and vibrant apr&egrave;s-ski scene in nearby Ohakune. Whether you're carving turns on the 2.5 km longest run or exploring natural halfpipes and chutes, the resort delivers a high-altitude adventure with a mix of groomed trails and lift-accessed backcountry. It&rsquo;s a destination that blends challenge, scenery, and community in equal measure.

Turoa is approximately 18 km from Ohakune, a 25-minute drive via the paved Ohakune Mountain Road. The road climbs through native forest and opens into alpine terrain, offering a scenic approach to the ski area. During winter, chains may be required on certain days, and rental chains are available from local ski shops. Free parking is available at the base, with overflow lots serviced by complimentary shuttles. Arriving before 9:30 AM is recommended during peak weekends to secure a spot. Shuttle services operate daily from Ohakune, with multiple morning and afternoon departures. Options include Dempsey Buses and other local operators, with pickups from central Ohakune and designated park-and-ride locations. For those traveling from further afield, Taupo Airport is about two hours away, and train and bus services connect Ohakune to Auckland and Wellington. While there&rsquo;s no gondola or ski-in/ski-out lodging, the resort&rsquo;s layout ensures quick access from car to lift.

Most visitors stay in Ohakune, a lively alpine town offering a wide range of accommodations just 18 km from Turoa. Options include family-friendly motels, romantic chalets, boutique lodges, and group cabins with full kitchens. Many properties offer ski packages, gear storage, and shuttle pickups. For those seeking luxury, high-end retreats feature spa services and gourmet dining. Ohakune&rsquo;s walkable layout, vibrant dining scene, and proximity to the slopes make it an ideal base for ski trips to Turoa.

Turoa&rsquo;s terrain is spread across 30 km of trails with a vertical drop of 722 meters, making it the largest in New Zealand. The resort is served by 7 lifts, including the High Noon Express, which reaches the highest lifted point in the country. The layout includes wide trails, volcanic bowls, natural halfpipes, and steep chutes, offering a dynamic mix of groomed and off-piste terrain. Beginners will find comfort in the Alpine Meadow zone, a dedicated learning area located at the base and separated from the main ski field. It features gentle slopes, surface lifts, and easy access to lessons and rentals. The terrain here is ideal for first-timers and young children, with plenty of space to build confidence. Intermediate skiers can explore trails like Clarry&rsquo;s Track and Boneyard, which offer rolling terrain and consistent grooming. These runs are perfect for cruising and refining technique, with scenic views of the surrounding peaks. The High Noon Express provides access to long blue-rated trails with smooth transitions and wide turns. Advanced skiers will appreciate the steeper pitches on Hamilton&rsquo;s Face and Organ Pipes. These areas feature natural features, variable snow conditions, and a mix of groomed and off-piste terrain. The volcanic landscape adds texture and challenge, with wind lips and drop-ins that reward technical skill. Expert skiers can hike to the upper ridgelines for access to steep chutes and big-mountain lines. These zones are not patrolled and require avalanche awareness, but they deliver dramatic descents and solitude. The terrain is raw and rewarding, especially after fresh snowfall. Freestyle riders are spoiled with 9 terrain parks and a halfpipe, including progression parks for beginners and advanced setups with rails, boxes, and kickers. The parks are maintained daily and designed for creativity and flow. Natural features across the mountain also offer freestyle opportunities for those who prefer organic terrain. 
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Start your day with a lap on Clarry&rsquo;s Track. It&rsquo;s a long, flowing descent with great visibility and a mellow pitch&mdash;perfect for warming up before tackling steeper terrain. The early light here is stunning, and the snow tends to stay firm until mid-morning. On powder days, head straight to Hamilton&rsquo;s Face. This zone collects deep snow and features natural halfpipes and bowls that hold fresh turns longer than the main trails. Drop in from the High Noon Express and aim for the left-hand gullies for the softest landings. Midweek visits&mdash;especially Tuesdays and Thursdays&mdash;are the quietest. You&rsquo;ll find minimal lift lines and wide-open terrain. For uninterrupted laps, loop the intermediate trails near Organ Pipes and explore the natural transitions that form after storms. Families should take advantage of the Alpine Meadow zone and the base lodge&rsquo;s viewing deck. It&rsquo;s centrally located and offers panoramic slope views, so parents can relax while keeping an eye on the kids. The caf&eacute; serves hot drinks and toasties&mdash;perfect for a midday break. For apr&egrave;s-ski, head down to Ohakune and grab a drink at The Powderkeg. It&rsquo;s a local favorite with a cozy fireplace, live music, and hearty fare like lamb shanks and craft beer. The vibe is relaxed and social&mdash;ideal for swapping stories from the slopes. Freestyle riders should hit the main terrain park mid-afternoon when the snow softens. The jump line is compact but well-shaped, and the rail section offers a mix of features for all skill levels. Ride it from the Movenpick lift for easy laps and quick resets. Photographers will love the view from the top of the High Noon Express. On clear days, you can see across the North Island to Mt. Ngauruhoe and the Kaimanawa Ranges. Sunset shots from this vantage point are especially dramatic. Advanced skiers should explore the drop-in near Organ Pipes. It&rsquo;s steep, narrow, and often overlooked. Ride it late morning when the snow softens and visibility improves&mdash;ideal conditions for technical descents. If you&rsquo;re staying overnight in Ohakune, bring layers. The alpine air gets crisp after dark, and the stargazing from lodge decks is phenomenal thanks to minimal light pollution. Pack a thermos and settle in for a quiet evening under the Southern sky. Before you leave, swing by the rental shop to demo a new setup. Turoa&rsquo;s varied terrain is perfect for testing gear, and the staff are happy to help you dial in your ride. It&rsquo;s a great way to end your trip with a fresh perspective on the mountain.

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Manawatu-Wanganui

Turoa Ski Resort

NEW ZEALAND / TUROA

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