2017 ski season is fast approaching and Parklands Motor Lodge is lucky to have Mt Ruapehu (the biggest ski field in New Zealand) less than an hour away. It’s a fantastic day out for the family so we have some information below that can help when planning a day on the mountain.
Transport from Turangi
There are a number of shuttles that can transport you and your Family to and from the mountain. Turangi Alpine Shuttles have a coach that departs Turangi every morning and returning in the evening. This is a great way to check out the scenery as you make your way up the mountain.
Ski Equipment
You can hire skis, snowboards, boots, helmets and clothing for the whole family. You have the option of doing this on or off the mountain. If you hire off-mountain you can spend the night getting organized and start your family ski adventure as soon as you get to the field, instead of having to wait in lines on the day. Turangi Ski or Tokaanu Ski and Snowboard Hire are two great local shops in Turangi. If you hire on-mountain, you can sort out the correct size on the day and you don’t have to lug all the gear on the shuttle to transport it up the mountain. Rental shops have everything you need for adults and children so your whole family is covered.
The Ski Fields
Mount Ruapehu has 3 great ski fields to try out. Whakapapa and Turoa are the largest and have a variety of slopes to suit all levels of skiers. Tukino is the lesser known gem on the eastern side of the mountain. Whakapapa is popular with families and only a 40-minute drive from Turangi. They have a range of kids programs and activities to try out as well as a fantastic sledding area that the whole family will love!
Once your day on the mountain is complete and your shuttle has dropped you off, you can relax and thaw out in one of our spa pools. And once you have worked up an appetite, you can unwind in our Parklands Motor Lodge Restaurant and Bar.
Costs
Skiing is not the cheapest family outing, but it is one your kids will remember for their whole lives.
Whether you visit the mountain only once, or come for the season, Mt Ruapehu has a great selection of lift passes and packages to suit everyone’s needs. If you budget is REALLY tight, bring the family up for some sledding and snow fun (bring something to slide on) and head over to the beginner area on Alpine Meadow. (No lift pass needed)
But for those looking for some more serious skiing fun, you can choose between half day or full day passes, and the areas of the mountain you want access to. For families with small children, you will most likely stick with the lower mountain slopes at Happy Valley.
Happy Valley Full Day Passes are $79 Adult, and $47 Youth (5-18). You can also consider flexi passes (Multiple days) and season passes.
To see all pricing options and to buy your tickets online, visit www.mtruapehu.com/winter/lift-passes/
Turangi Accommodation
And let’s not forget Turangi accommodation suitable for the whole family for your next Ski trip. As a family, friendly affordable motel with wide open spaces, a play area, an on-site restaurant, spa pools and room heating, Parklands Motor Lodge in Turangi is the perfect place to base your family for a day on the mountain. Your hosts, Craig and Angela, are here to make the whole experience a very special one for every member of your family, whatever their age.
Have fun in the Snow! ❄
