Downhill upgrade for Whakapapa

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 257, 4 October 1988, Page 1

Downhill upgrade for Whakapapa

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts Limited has announced that it will begin redevelopment of the western slopes of the Whakapapa Ski Area this summer. A fixed grip quad chairlift will be installed from the top of the Downhill access chairlift to just above the top of the Loop Access tow, and the West Ridge T Bar will be relocated onto a new line above its present position. The new T Bar will be 820 metres long serving 270 vertical metres offering

nearly 100 hectares of new ski terrain. It's the first time since the 60's that RAL's developments have offered new terrain as well as increased lift capacities. The new quad chairlift will allow more effective utilisation of the Downhill slopes as it removes the existing constraint of waiting for sufficient snow cover on the T Bar lines before skiing can commence. From the top of this lift skiers will be able to traverse around to the Knoll Ridge area via Delta Corner. These developments are possible within the current Whakapapa Skifield Manage-

ment Plan and the necessary approvals have been received from the Department of Conservation. The new T Bar will finish at an elevation of 2280 metres. "We are very excited about these developments," said Dave Mazey, General Manager of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. "The new terrain served by the T Bar is mostly undulating bowls and offers excellent skiing for intermediates and experts." RAL is also investigating providing a new cafeteria, toilet facilities and a new snow groomer to service the area.