This year, It feels like the beginning of a new era for Tūroa.
I visited the Tūroa Ski Area on Mt Ruapehu in July for a two-day mid-week ski trip. It was my first trip to Tūroa under its new owners. Were there any noticeable differences? Any changes in attitude? And if so, were there improvements over the previous management of Tūroa?
The answer is a resounding yes! The difference was immediately evident when I arrived in Ohakune and picked up my new ski pass at the PowderKeg. The shop looked great, was full of merchandise, and cheerful staff.
I have noticed that buying ski passes from off-skifield outlets is becoming increasingly common. It removes the hassle of getting your passes up on the mountain.
The new Tūroa Ski Area!
The most significant change I noticed on the skifield was the staff. They were much more enthusiastic and attentive than the previous year, giving me the impression that the new change in ownership was the spark Tūroa needed.
Speaking of the new owners, I met them at the café. It was great; they took the time to chat. It feels like a new era for the skifield, the rebirth of Tūroa!
Café improvements at the base area
My first impression of Freddies, located on the upper floor of the skifield’s base area, was WOW! This place belongs in an airport lounge; I would happily wait for my plane here. It’s sophisticated and stylish, and the food backs it up. The ground-floor café looks pretty much the same as last year.
Oh my sore legs...
One essential improvement we can all agree on is upgrading the lower chairlifts, especially the Giant and the Movenpick. After a full day of skiing, those chairs really smash your legs. But hey, if you want to be comfortable, don’t ski!
I noticed that the planned chair upgrades are mentioned on their website, and I’m confident that once completed, it will be a breeze to move everyone to the top of the mountain. Tūroa will become one of the best places to ski in New Zealand.
The skiing is still great
The two days there were enjoyable, although, as the video shows, more snow is required, especially on the lower trails. The weather was unseasonably warm, which reminded me of spring skiing. However, the snow on the trails was winter-packed.
As I write this, it’s snowing, demonstrating how quickly things change. When you get plenty of snow, combine it with the mountain’s wide-open terrain. The skiing is primo!
So, after all, what did I think?
I think the change of ownership for Tūroa is a blessing for the ski field and the region. Their attitude and vision for the future are evident, especially the management’s understanding of what people want when they come to Mt Ruapehu.
It’s so refreshing to see a business that realises the importance of the customer—long may that continue. Other ski areas, are you paying attention?
However, I must point out that I visited on two weekdays—not the weekend, which is the big test for ski fields on Mt Ruapehu. It’s when the masses arrive by the thousands, and systems and staff get thoroughly tested. So far, so good, though.
Everyone seemed to appreciate that the skifield would open and operate. These days were remarkably different from last year—this year, Tūroa felt better!
