Latest news with #SkyWaka
Scoop
25-07-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Ruapehu Snow Economy Back In Action
Press Release – Ruapehu District Council The snow industry is critical to our economy and regional tourism, said Mayor Kirton. Its fantastic to see Whakapapa and Troa up and running again, but we must keep building on this success. Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton has joined Peak FM host Jesse Archer for a live broadcast from the Top of the Bruce at Whakapapa ski field to celebrate the local snow industry and the importance of economic development in the region. Mayor Kirton reflected on the journey to secure government funding that enabled the continued operation of both Whakapapa and Tūroa ski fields following the collapse of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts (RAL). 'The snow industry is critical to our economy and regional tourism,' said Mayor Kirton. 'It's fantastic to see Whakapapa and Tūroa up and running again, but we must keep building on this success.' Mayor Kirton said he was hopeful for a few more snowfalls to help extend the season and encouraged people to visit the maunga and enjoy all the experiences Ruapehu has to offer – on and off the slopes. He also stressed the need to keep building on the economic momentum generated by the ski areas. 'Council is committed to working with government and others to complete our cycle and hiking trail networks which are turning Ruapehu into a true year-round destination while providing much-needed economic resilience.' Mayor Kirton also reminded listeners to sign the petition calling on government support to restore the iconic Chateau Tongariro Hotel. 'If you haven't signed our online Parliamentary Petition please do so and help restore this iconic building to its former glory as both a heritage treasure and major contributor to the regional economy. The survey can be found on Council's website Whakapapa chief executive Travis Donoghue also joined the show, saying he felt 'beyond stoked' to see the ski field its stride after a few years of uncertainty. 'Around 300,000 people visit Whakapapa every year, and they're not just coming for the snow – they're also exploring the whole region. That's great news for local businesses.' Mr Donoghue said the school holidays had been a major success, with around 30,000 people enjoying snow play, skiing, sightseeing on the Sky Waka gondola, and even taking their first steps in the alpine environment. This weekend we're looking forward to opening* the Delta Chair and with fine weather forecast it's shaping up to be a fantastic few days on the maunga.' *NOTE: Turoa ski field is also opening up its upper mountain facilities this weekend.
Scoop
24-07-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Ruapehu Snow Economy Back In Action
Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton has joined Peak FM host Jesse Archer for a live broadcast from the Top of the Bruce at Whakapapa ski field to celebrate the local snow industry and the importance of economic development in the region. Mayor Kirton reflected on the journey to secure government funding that enabled the continued operation of both Whakapapa and Tūroa ski fields following the collapse of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts (RAL). 'The snow industry is critical to our economy and regional tourism,' said Mayor Kirton. 'It's fantastic to see Whakapapa and Tūroa up and running again, but we must keep building on this success.' Mayor Kirton said he was hopeful for a few more snowfalls to help extend the season and encouraged people to visit the maunga and enjoy all the experiences Ruapehu has to offer – on and off the slopes. He also stressed the need to keep building on the economic momentum generated by the ski areas. 'Council is committed to working with government and others to complete our cycle and hiking trail networks which are turning Ruapehu into a true year-round destination while providing much-needed economic resilience.' Mayor Kirton also reminded listeners to sign the petition calling on government support to restore the iconic Chateau Tongariro Hotel. 'If you haven't signed our online Parliamentary Petition please do so and help restore this iconic building to its former glory as both a heritage treasure and major contributor to the regional economy. The survey can be found on Council's website Whakapapa chief executive Travis Donoghue also joined the show, saying he felt 'beyond stoked' to see the ski field its stride after a few years of uncertainty. 'Around 300,000 people visit Whakapapa every year, and they're not just coming for the snow - they're also exploring the whole region. That's great news for local businesses.' Mr Donoghue said the school holidays had been a major success, with around 30,000 people enjoying snow play, skiing, sightseeing on the Sky Waka gondola, and even taking their first steps in the alpine environment. This weekend we're looking forward to opening* the Delta Chair and with fine weather forecast it's shaping up to be a fantastic few days on the maunga.'
NZ Herald
23-06-2025
- NZ Herald
Hot travel deals: Cruises, winter escapes and luxury stays you should book
Mark Matariki with a restful stay under the stars in the Ruapehu area, where Tongariro Crossing Lodge debuts its new Garden Suites. The lodge's Matariki special offers a 10% discount on stays throughout June and includes a free upgrade to a cooked breakfast. Guests can enjoy nearby winter activities like the Sky Waka gondola, snow play at Whakapapa, the new Te Hangāruru cycle trail opening on June 19, short walks in the national park and stargazing under clear dark skies. Use promo code Matariki25 when booking direct. Offer ends June 30, 2025. Book at Tongariro Crossing Lodge's new Garden Suites discount comes with free breakfast. Cruise Europe in a small ship Set sail aboard Le Bougainville for a nine-night luxury cruise through Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, Italy and Malta, with a free Solo Supplement on selected cabins. Departing from Dubrovnik, this journey includes an excursion at every port, from the Bay of Kotor and Korcula to Parga and Valletta. Enjoy the cruise with Ponant's all-inclusive small ship luxury, all with curated cultural experiences, fine dining, and stunning coastal views. From $8950 pp twin share. Save a further $500 per cabin using the code NZH. Solo offer and savings are strictly limited. Visit for bookings and details. Discover the Adriatic and Ionian seas with this cruise. Hamilton Island escape Stay three nights at qualia on Hamilton Island and explore the best of the Whitsundays with ease and comfort. This five-star resort sits on the island's northern tip, giving you access to ocean views, private beaches and nearby reef adventures. The package includes a three-night stay at the five-star resort, a la carte breakfast daily, VIP return transfers from the marina or airport, use of a golf buggy, non-motorised watercraft, a chauffeur service around the island, non-alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi and 24-hour access to the concierge team. Priced from $2910 pp twin share, valid for travel from June 13 to August 15, August 18 to September 18, September 22 to December 19, 2025, and January 11 to March 31, 2026. Book by October 30, 2025 at Bookings must be made at least 60 days in advance. Lounge in the pool all day at this luxury resort. Scenic winter rail journey Experience the magic of winter in Canada with a scenic rail journey through British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies. This 10-day itinerary starts in Vancouver before boarding VIA Rail's Canadian Train for a nostalgic ride to Jasper, surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks. Discover Jasper's winter wonderland with an ice walk through Maligne Canyon and indulge in local flavours on the Downtown Foodie Tour. Continue to Lake Louise and Banff to enjoy picturesque drives, ice skating and immersive experiences like Nightrise at the Banff Gondola. End your adventure with a captivating tour of Calgary. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through Canada's breathtaking winter landscapes. From $5165 pp, this deal is on sale until July 31. Valid for selected travel dates between November 2025 and April 2026. Airfares are additional. Book via or call 0800 951 655.
