Turoa plans to build chairlift

Ruapehu Bulletin, 21 December 1993, Page 1

Turoa plans to build chairlift

Turoa Ski Resort has applied for a resource consent to build a fixed-grip quad chairlift from below the top of the Movenpick chairlift to finish above the top of the Giant Chairlift. The company did not wish to discuss the plans,

saying there are a number of processes that will have to be successfully completed, including the resource consent application, before a decision to build the lift. But having applied for a resource consent, their intentions are now public.

The Bulletin understands that if all goes to plan, the lift could be built before next winter. If there are delays in any of the stages, it could be put off until the following summer if resource consent is granted. The bottom of the

Doppelmayr lift would be sited at what is known as the Terrace, to the east of the Amphitheatre. It would run alongside the Yahoo Trail, passing to the left of the Frozen Waterfall, rising about 190 metres from its base station.

It would be driven by a 150kw electric motor, consist of 12 towers and 112 chairs, and have a carrying capacity of 2 1 00 people per hour. Turoa cites as reasons for the proposal the wish to ensure "quality skiing for intermediate and beginner skiers" in the poorest snow years. "In the poorest years, Turoa has always had skiable snow above the top of the Movenpick Chairlift (above 1900m). At present Turoa only has one chairlift that services this area and then only from its mid-sta-tion," states the application. The lift would also provide a second link to the top of the skifieldshould the Giant fail for any reason. The company has consulted with the Department of Conservatjon, the lando wner, about the project and approval in principle has been given, states the application. They have also been in contact with the local Iwi. The proposed chairlift falls within the policy guidelines of the Tongariro National Park Management Plan, states the application.