New Zealand’s largest ski resort (Whakapapa & Turoa together) add up to 2,600 acres (1050 hectares).  They had to push back their opening date, but their getting closer.  Here’s 2 updates:

“We’ve been holding out to make an announcement, as we thought Mother Nature would respond kindly to our snow dancing!

At this stage, we regret the opening of Whakapapa and Turoa Ski Areas have been delayed due to lack of snow. Whakapapa will be open for sightseeing from Saturday. Be the first to ride our newest lift – the Rangatira Express. It’s fast, comfy and fits the whole crew!

The forecast however is looking promising in the next few days and we will open as soon as conditions allow. Get your snow-dancing shoes on and keep an eye out for further updates!” – Mt. Ruapehu, June 30th, 2016

Countdown is on to official Mt Ruapehu ski season opening

by Mt. Ruapehu

June 30th, 2016

The opening of the Whakapapa and Turoa Ski Areas have been delayed due to lack of snow fall, however weather permitting, beginner trails at both ski areas will be open in time for the school holidays.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts CEO, Dave Mazey says “the forecast for the next week includes a low pressure system coming through on Thursday night which could bring up to 15cm of natural snow on our upper slopes. This will be followed by cold clear conditions through the weekend which will provide for great snowmaking on the lower slopes”.

“We are optimistic this weather pattern will enable us to open beginner trails at both ski areas next week and on time for the school holidays.

“We’ve already had two reasonable snowfalls so we have a base on the upper mountain. We expect that with one or two more heavy snowfalls we will be able to open for intermediate and advanced skiing at both Whakapapa and Turoa.

“We understand the delayed opening of ski trails is disappointing for our customers, but the teams at both ski areas are all trained and ready to go as soon as conditions allow” says Mazey.

Visitors to Whakapapa can ride the ski area’s newest lift, the Rangatira Express along with the Waterfall Express lift for sightseeing to New Zealand’s highest café, the award-winning Knoll Ridge Café.

The Whakapapa Ski Area will be open for sightseeing from Saturday, 2 July.