Visit Ruapehu

Ruapehu is the North Island’s energetic heart; a place to reconnect with the natural world and recharge in a region full of life. There are wildlife encounters for the heart, active adventures in the great outdoors and wellness experiences to help you slow and disconnect. Cosy alpine towns are a buzz in winter, with powder days and apres-ski vibes as the stunning snow-capped peaks of Mt Ruapehu transform into a winter wonderland. Get ready to linger a while longer, breathe in that crisp mountain air and retreat off the beaten track in Ruapehu this winter.

Wildlife encounters for the heart

The friendly fauna in this region are sure to bring you boundless joy, whether it’s through their cute cuddles or the intrepid adventures they can take you on.

Trek the foothills of Tongariro National Park on horseback: Ruapehu Homestead Horse Treks offers guided horse treks for all ages and abilities. Learn the ropes in a safe environment, cross babbling mountain streams or get out into the backcountry if you’re an experienced rider.

The Ruapehu region has guided horse treks for all ages and abilities.

The Ruapehu region has guided horse treks for all ages and abilities.

Cuddle up to a baby alpaca: The largest alpaca farm in New Zealand, Nevalea Alpacas, is home to more than 1100 of these unique creatures. Hand feed a baby alpaca, take it for a walk and get your picture taken to remember the experience.

Nevalea Alpacas is the largest alpaca farm in New Zealand with more than 1100 alpacas.

Nevalea Alpacas is the largest alpaca farm in New Zealand with more than 1100 alpacas.

Blast from the past: You may not be able to encounter a dinosaur in real life, but The Dinosaur House in Raetihi will get you as close as possible to these prehistoric beasts. It’s the country’s largest collection of privately-owned dinosaur skeletons, fossils and life-sized models that the kids will love.

Do you have a furry friend of your own you’d like to bring along on your holiday? There are plenty of dog-friendly stays in Ruapehu, such as The Inn at the Convent B&B, Ruapehu Mountain Motel & Lodge and Mountain Heights Lodge also have designated pet-friendly options for your canine companions.

Outdoor adventures for the soul

Whether you’re after a hard day’s hike or a gentler adventure, Ruapehu’s great outdoors are made for active relaxers. The mountains and rivers of this spectacular natural wonderland will recharge your soul by getting you back to nature.

Get into nature: Surrounded by Whanganui National Park, Blue Duck Station is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a range of activities including kayaking, mountain biking, tramping and clay bird shooting.

Get on your tramping boots: Ruapehu is filled with a splendid array of world-class walking and hiking trails. Experience the renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing on a guided winter expedition alongside a knowledgeable local guide to take you through the unique landscapes or venture to one of many lesser known treks to spectacular waterfalls, secret lagoons, or shorter walking trails if you’re just after a taste.

Get on your bike: Explore the Ruapehu region on two wheels along a network of over 400 km of cycle trails. The iconic Timber Trail is mint during the winter as well as Ohakune Old Coach Road and Marton Sash and Door – both part of the Mountains to Sea Ngā Ara Tūhono connected pathways, which take you through some of the sights of Tongariro National Park’s volcanic landscapes to the wilderness of the Whanganui River and the wild Tasman Sea coast.

Get on the water: The Whanganui River is the longest navigable river in New Zealand and is a legal entity with the same rights and responsibilities as a human being. Explore this culturally significant natural wonder with some water based activities: guided canoeing, jet boating, or fly fishing. Guided cultural journeys on the Whanganui River also include Rongoa and Maramataka elements to truly immerse you in this special place in the world.

Relaxing experiences for the mind and body

In Ruapehu you’ll find charming and secluded accommodation that offer more than just a bed for the night. They are experiences in their own right and will leave you feeling mentally and physically at peace.

During winter

Rua Awa Lodge: Get away from it all at this picturesque lodge with mountain views that offers yoga sessions and nutritious farm to plate meals, with private river access and stunning glowworms nearby.

Nightsky Cottage: Embrace a zero-waste stay at this luxurious 5 star eco retreat which features side by-side freestanding baths and native bush views right next to Tongariro National Park.

Snowy Waters Lodge: This is a peaceful, beautiful destination for wellness retreats, and they also offer exclusive access to a spa pool. Set within 5 acres of parklike grounds with majestic views of Mt Ruapehu, your stay here will be the epitome of relaxation.

Snowman Lodge & Spa: Accommodation, dining, massage treatments, spa, and sauna – all the makings of an unforgettable winter getaway in the heart of Ohakune with Snowman Lodge and Spa. Hot volcano stone massage, foot spa and aromatherapy massage are the perfect ways to unwind after a winter’s day out.

Skotel Alpine Resort: Officially NZ’s highest hotel, experience mountainside accommodation at Skotel Alpine Resort for a glorious winter escape. Located just 7 kms down from the Whakapapa ski area on Mt Ruapehu, Skotel boasts an on-site ski shop, the Terrace Restaurant and Bar and traditional sauna, spa and gym for guests to enjoy.

Stay and play in Ohakune - only 20 minutes from Tūroa ski area on Mt Ruapehu.

Stay and play in Ohakune - only 20 minutes from Tūroa ski area on Mt Ruapehu.

Ohakune sunrise with Mt Ruapehu in the background

Try jet boating along the Whanganui River

Fly fishing in the Whanganui River

Bridge to Nowhere in the heart of Whanganui National Park

Ohakune Old Coach Road

Recharge those batteries with some wellness and adventure in Ruapehu this winter

For more inspiration to plan your visit to Ruapehu, go to visitruapehu.com.
Please travel safely and check guidance at https://covid19.govt.nz/ for traffic light requirements in the region you're travelling to.

Plan your trip to Ruapehu