Summer Alpine Magic

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 12, Issue 551, 30 August 1994, Page 10 (Supplement)

Summer Alpine Magic

Whakapapa Ski Area is now open all year round. Marketing Manager Scott Lee says the field will close for the winter season on 13 November - and open for Whakapapa's Summer Programme the following day. This year if enough snow remains, Whakapapa expects to again offer summer skiing - the third year this decade that this has happened. During the summer season the Centennial and Waterfall Express lifts will run from 9.00 am to 5.00pm from the Top O' the Bruce carpark to the Knoll Ridge, 2,000 metres above sea level. Prices are the same as last year at $7 per child and $12 per adult and $30 for a family group. Daily guided trips will run to the Crater Lake, weather permitting. The cost, including the chairlift ride ranges from $20 per child, $30 per adult and $75 for a family group. The Knoll Ridge Chalet, New Zealand's highest restaurant, and Lorenz's Bar & Cafe will also stay open during the summer months. Spring ski touring Why don't you finish off a magic day at Whakapapa with a trip up to the Crater Lake at the top of Mt Ruapehu, ski down either to Turoa or Tukino. Trips depart from the top of the Far West T-bar at 1pm. Plateau Outdoor Adventure Guides provide the guiding expertise, all the safety equipment, the touring equipment (either securifix bindings that fit into your own skis or the skis with touring binding attached and skins to enable you to walk uphill), transport back to Whakapapa or National Park. Bookings are essential so Ph/Fax (07) 8922 740.