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Mt Ruapehu
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Located in the middle of the North island, Mt Ruapehu is some 335
kilometres south of Auckland in a volcanic region that includes
Mt Ngarahoe and Mt Tongariro.
Whakapapa:
This is the biggest and most used skiing area in New Zealand and
covers a whopping 400 hectares. The ski fields are on the north-western
side of Mt Ruapehu and offer everything for everyone. One fifth
of the area is good for beginners, almost two-thirds will suit intermediate
skiers, while advanced skiers and snowboarders will have a fifth
of Whakapapa to themselves. There are more than 30 runs with 17
high-capacity lifts making getting back to the top hassle-free.
Average snowfall: 400 cm.
Highest lift: 2300 metres.
Vertical drop: 670 metres.
Lifts: 17. 10 main, 7 beginner tows.
Facilities: cafes and bars, children's creche, children's programme.
Season: Late June - Late October.
Turoa:
Also situated on Mt Ruapehu, but on the south-west side, Turoa is
similar in size to Whakapapa but has a slightly larger beginners'
area. One quarter of its runs are suitable for novices, 55% for
intermediates and advanced skiers and snowboarders have around 20%.
Turoa has the largest vertical drop in New Zealand and Australia
and is renowned for excellent skiing in Spring.
Average
snowfall: 450 cm.
Highest lift: 2322 metres.
Longest run: 4 km.
Vertical drop: 720 metres.
Lifts: 11. 7 main, 4 beginner tows.
Facilities: Cafes and bars, children's programme.
Season: Late June - Late October.
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