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Tūroa Ski Area is officially open for business, welcoming visitors for snow play and sightseeing from Saturday, May 31, as the mountain community gears up for the upcoming winter season.
Ahead of full ski and snowboard operations, Tūroa HQ in Ohakune is scheduled to open in line with the on-mountain operations, offering season passes, mountain information, and essential winter gear. The retail hub serves as the go-to location for guest services and pre-mountain planning as excitement builds for the snowy months ahead on Mt. Ruapehu.
While the Tūroa team awaits further snowfall to unlock the mountain’s full terrain, early-season visitors can enjoy exceptional alpine views and snow-based activities, with mountain staff having used the pre-season window to carry out essential maintenance and upgrades.
Among the fresh offerings this year is Freddies Tasting Room, now boasting a fully refreshed menu inspired by local ingredients and regional flavours. Highlights include the Turoa Signature Benny with Kaitaia Fire hollandaise, the indulgent Wagyu Melt featuring truffle mayo and kumara fries, and the decadent Coca Pod, a dark chocolate mousse with ganache and hazelnut brownie. Weekends at Tūroa come alive with live music and après vibes on Saturdays, with Freddie’s fully licensed for your entertainment.
In a major upgrade to on-mountain operations, Tūroa has invested in a 600-horsepower snow groomer, significantly boosting slope preparation capabilities at the ski area. The state-of-the-art snow cat will ensure top-quality conditions once natural snow cover increases as the season progresses.
“We’re thrilled to open our doors and welcome everyone back to Tūroa,” says Tūroa chief executive Jono Dean.
“The mountain looks spectacular, and although we’re waiting on more snow, our team has worked incredibly hard over the off-season to prepare for a fantastic winter ahead. Our new HQ in Ohakune town, refreshed locally driven menu at Freddie’s Tasting Room, and new snow groomer will all contribute to enhancing the guest experience both on and off the mountain.”
Updates on snow conditions, lift operations, and mountain access are available through Tūroa’s official website and social media channels.
