Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
MOUNTAIN SAFETY
Many visitors to NZ come unstuck in the mountains. The weather can change more
quickly than you expect, and rescues (and fatalities) are not uncommon. When
heading out on remote tracks, you must be properly equipped and take safety pre-
cautions, including leaving your itinerary with a responsible person. Appropriate
clothing is paramount. Think wool, and several layers of it, topped with a water-
proof jacket. Gloves and a hat are good too, even in summer. And don't even think
about wearing anything other than sturdy boots. Take plenty of water and sun-
screen, especially on hot days.
Other Activities
Whakapapa & Turoa
Ski Areas
SKIING, SNOWBOARDING
( Turoa 06-385 8456, Whakapapa 07-892 4000;
www.mtruapehu.com
; day pass adult/child $97/
58)
These linked resorts straddle either side of Mt Ruapehu and are NZ's two largest ski -
areas. Each offers similar skiing at an analogous altitude (around 2300m), with areas to
suit each level of experience - from beginners' slopes to black-diamond runs for the
pros. The same lift passes cover both ski areas.
The only accommodation at the Whakapapa ski field is in private lodges (mainly
owned by ski clubs), so most visitors stay at Whakapaka or National Park Villages.
Turoa is only 16km from Ohakune, which has the best après-ski scene.
Tukino Ski Area
SKIING, SNOWBOARDING
OFFLINE MAP
( 06-387 6294, 0800 885 466;
www.tukino.co.nz
;
day pass adult/child $50/30)
Club-operated
Tukino is on Mt Ruapehu's east, 46km from Turangi. It's quite remote, 14km down a
gravel road from the sealed Desert Rd (SH1), and you need a 4WD vehicle to get in. It -
offers uncrowded, backcountry runs, mostly beginner and intermediate.
Mountain Air
SCENIC FLIGHTS
OFFLINE MAP
( 0800 922 812;
www.mountainair.co.nz
; junction SH47 & SH48; 15/25/35min $120/185/225)
Offers scenic flights from its base halfway between Whakapapa and National Park Vil-
lages. Turangi and Taupo departures also available.
