If you have never experienced the thrill of ski-ing on an active volcano then you are missing something special!

Home to the only North Island commercial ski areas, Mt Ruapehu is part of a dual World Heritage Area and offers skiers and snowboarders the choice of two ski fields in one area!

Whakapapa Ski Area boasts New Zealand's premiere beginners' area - Happy Valley. Separate from the main ski area, Happy Valley is a safe and relaxing area for beginners to learn in a confident and fun manner. It also has it's own cafe, rental complex and ski school - perfect for those that are getting to grips with the art of balancing on snow!

Turoa Ski Area is located on the south-western slopes and can boast to holding the title for Australasia's longest vertical drop and New Zealand's highest lift! There is a huge variety of terrain to suit from beginners to advanced skiers and riders, including impressive off-piste areas.

Mt Ruapehu is conveniently located in the heart of the central North Island and it is only just over 1 hours drive from Taupo to Whakapapa ski field, while Turoa is only 2 hours drive time.