The first ski area on Mt Ruapehu is set to open in late June/early July this year, according to a recent press release from Mt Ruapehu CEO Jono Dean.
The opening will be dependent on a number of factors, says Jono, including snowfall and the Alert Level restrictions that exist at the time.
"We had planned to open Happy Valley on May 30 this year in time for Queen’s Birthday weekend as usual, but unfortunately with the preparation, maintenance and staff hiring time lost during the lockdown, we’re unable to make this happen this year," he says.
"We will, however be opening the Sky Waka for sightseeing only over Queen's Birthday weekend (Saturday, May 30 – Monday, June 1) weather permitting.
"At this stage, we are planning a season that will see both Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields open every day the weather permits with top to bottom skiing and riding but it is likely that not all lifts will operate.
"The operational teams will start outlining that detail later this week via our social media channels," says Jono.
He says skiiers and Mt Ruapehu visitors can rest assured that the team is working hard to prepare for the season on mountain and behind the scenes planning also continues with the ski industry confirming late last week that following its work with Government, ski areas can operate for the 2020 season under COVID-19 Alert Level 2.
"Myself, NZSki CEO Paul Anderson and Cardrona Alpine Resorts general manager Bridget Legnavsky have been working with Government on behalf of the industry to clarify how ski resorts will operate under Level 2 requirements," says Jono.
"It’s been a comprehensive process but one that has demonstrated collaboration across the entire industry in an unprecedented time, and the outcome is that the industry has agreed specific guidelines for ski resorts to allow them to operate safely under Level 2.
"As we get closer to opening the ski areas, we will be releasing more specific information on what you can expect when you visit this season and how you will be able to help us to keep within the Alert Level protocols that exist at the time of opening.
"While we understand it’s disappointing for those of you looking forward to your first outing on the slopes that we’re not open over Queens’ Birthday weekend, we encourage you to still come and enjoy the other incredible experiences on offer in our region," he says.
