Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields set to open this weekend

- big snow dump in time for last week of school holidays -

Whakapapa and Turoa ski areas look set to open for skiing and boarding on the upper and lower slopes this weekend, following a 30cm snowfall over the past 48 hours, with more forecast.

“Once this storm cycle clears, we expect that we will have enough snow on the ground for top to bottom skiing and boarding” says Ruapehu Alpine Lifts CEO, Dave Mazey.

“We’re delighted that we’ll be able to open the upper and lower slopes for the second week of the school holidays as we know how much families look forward to this time of the year,” says Mazey.

Whakapapa now has an upper mountain base of 70cm and Turoa has 51cm. This is expected to grow significantly over the coming days.

“We’ve now got machines working around the clock to set up T-bars and groom trails on the upper mountain.

“Opening the lower fields for beginners in time for the opening of the school holidays at both Whakapapa and Turoa was terrific, but now we’re looking forward to seeing the upper slopes come alive with people enjoying the snow,” says Mazey.

Mazey advises visitors to keep checking the Mt Ruapehu website and social media channels for regular updates on the latest conditions and operating facilities.

“Our team are trained and ready to go at the drop of a hat. Once mother nature allows we will open for business,” says Mazey.

Alpine Meadow and The Alpine Cafe at Turoa ski area, and Happy Valley and the Knoll Ridge Café at Whakapapa ski area are currently open for skiers and sightseeing visitors. Please visit MtRuapehu.com for further information.

ENDS

© Scoop Media