Enough snow to ski the new year in

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 12, Issue 564, 29 November 1994, Page 3 (Supplement)

Enough snow to ski the new year in

Whakapapa Whakapapa ski area management are confident of busy weekend skiing now that the weather has finally cleared. Heavy rain and high winds frustrated management and skiers for much of the spring period. "The ski area is still reporting a two-metre base and 10cm of new snow has freshened everything up," said Scott Lee, marketing manager for Whakapapa. 'There is still a lot of interest, skiers are still keen to enjoy the fantastic conditions. On fine days our numbers have been 25 per cent up on last year". The ski season will stretch until 8 January with yet another year of skiing at Christmas. If skiing' s not your summer cuppa, put lunch at New Zealands highest restaurant on your menu this summer. Whakapapa Ski Area, known as a magic place in winter, is now a hot summer destination too. Every day (weather permitting) the chairlifts will operate to transport visitors from the Top O' the Bruce to Knoll Ridge. Whakapapa Ski Field, New Zealands largest developed ski field, is now open for business all year round. Instead of closing the lifts and moth-balling facilities, Ruapehu Alpine Lifts (RAL), the company that manages Whakapapa Ski Area, keeps things moving. The chairlifts operate and the Knoll Ridge Chalet, New Zealand's highest licensed restaurant, opens year-round for delicious food and beverages. Two thousand metres up Mt Ruapehu is the chalet where you can sip wine, eat great food and enjoy majestic views up and down the mountain - all summer, in fact all year round. Long recognised as a magic place to be in winter, Mt Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park is equally exciting as

it bares its bones in summer. The striking colours and textures are a breathtaking reminder of the mountain' s volcanic nature. RAL operate daily guided walks to the Crater Lake. On the way, the experienced guides relate some of the history, geology and points of interest in the area. The walks are very popular and it's a good idea to book in advance. You can also experience a self-guided walk back to the Top O' the Bruce from the chalet. Information signs on the way also tell of the history and geology of Mt Ruapehu. Thousands of people visit Tongariro National Park each year especially over the summer period and many climb Mt Ruapehu. Previously it's been an uphill slog all the way, often for the fit and hardy only. With the chairlifts operating, access is not only easier, but for those who do walk up there will be a cold drink waiting at the top. RAL has found that their summer operation encourages more people to get outdoors and enjoy the unique Mt Ruapehu environment. - truly Summer Alpine Magic.