Tūroa opens top-to-bottom skiing with High Noon Express

23 July 2025, Ohakune – It’s official: Tūroa Ski Area is unlocking the full mountain experience this Saturday with the season’s much-anticipated opening of the High Noon Express chairlift. For the first time this winter, skiers and snowboarders will enjoy top-to-bottom runs on Mt Ruapehu, just in time for a big weekend on the slopes.

The opening is a major milestone for Tūroa, giving visitors access to its signature terrain and extending the rideable area from base to summit. “We are thrilled to be able to offer guests top to bottom skiing for the first time this winter on Tūroa’s premier terrain,” said Jono Dean, Tūroa Chief Executive.

With clear weather forecasted for Saturday, the team is gearing up for a busy weekend. “The weather for Saturday is looking mint so we’re preparing for a busy weekend up the mountain. We encourage guests to pre-purchase their passes online or at Tūroa HQ in Ohakune, which means there’s more time to enjoy a hearty breakfast in Freddie’s prior to hitting the slopes for a big day of riding,” added Jono.

To support the increased visitor numbers, more facilities will be operational from the weekend. The Giant Café and Snowflake Big Mountain Burgers will both be open for hungry riders, and there’s an après-ski bonus in store too: a DJ will be spinning tracks at The Giant Café on Saturday to celebrate the lift opening.

With strong interest expected, Tūroa is encouraging guests to plan ahead. Passes can be purchased online or in person at Tūroa HQ (corner of Ayr and Goldfinch Street, Ohakune), but online remains the fastest way to secure your spot on the mountain.

For real-time snow conditions, lift status, and updates, visit turoa.com or follow Tūroa on Instagram and Facebook.

About Tūroa Ski Area

Tūroa Ski Area is situated on the southwestern slopes of the iconic Mount Ruapehu in New Zealand’s central North Island. It offers a premier skiing and snowboarding experience for all levels, from first timers to seasoned pros. Renowned for its expansive and varied terrain, Tūroa features some of the country’s most striking volcanic landscapes, including New Zealand’s longest vertical descent at 722 metres. With wide-open groomers, thrilling off-piste options, and a high-altitude base, Tūroa delivers consistently reliable snow conditions throughout the season.

The ski area is equipped with modern facilities, including gear rentals, professional lessons, and welcoming food and beverage outlets, perfect for warming up between runs. Just a three-hour drive from Hamilton, four hours from Wellington, and five hours from Auckland, Tūroa is one of New Zealand’s most accessible alpine destinations.

For the 2025 winter season, Tūroa has partnered with Air Chathams to make access to the ski area even easier. Travellers can fly direct from Auckland to Whanganui, hire a vehicle locally, and be on the slopes or enjoying their accommodation at the Powderhorn Chateau within two hours of landing.

Tūroa invites snow lovers from near and far to experience an authentic alpine adventure unlike any other in Aotearoa. turoa.com