Ruapehu NZ

07/09/2026

Spring is in the air, and both Turoa and Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu Ski Area's are celebrating with some fantastic deals to help you make the most of the season.

• Whakapapa Ski Area is giving you even more reasons to visit midweek. Every Monday to Thursday throughout September, Snowland is 50% off. Your Snowland ticket includes:
Tubing
Sledding
Snowplay, with the option to add a ride on the Sky Waka gondola.
🔗https://www.whakapapa.com/snowland-spring

• Tūroa is offering a Spring Season Passes from 7 September. The pass includes:

Unlimited skiing and riding from 7 September until the end of the season
Sightseeing access included
A significant discount on your 2027 Season Pass
Unlimited discounted day passes for Whakapapa Ski Area + MORE!
🔗https://www.pureturoa.nz/passes/spring-season-pass

Whether you're introducing the family to the snow or squeezing in a few more turns before the season wraps up, now is the perfect time to hit the slopes.

04/09/2026

Raurimu Thunder - Steam takes on New Zealand's greatest rail challenge on November 14.

Join Mainline Steam Heritage Trust for an unforgettable day behind a powerful heritage steam locomotive as they venture deep into the rugged heart of the North Island to conquer the legendary Raurimu Spiral.

Experience one of the world's great railway achievements the way it was meant to be tackled: with the sights, sounds, and raw power of mainline steam. Watch from comfortable heritage carriages or head to the open-air viewing platform as the locomotive climbs through dramatic landscapes, tight curves, tunnels, and the famous 360-degree loop.

📸 Highlights include:
✅ Steam-hauled journey through the Central Plateau
✅ Traversing the world-famous Raurimu Spiral
✅ Open-air viewing platform
✅ Special trackside photo run-by opportunity
✅ Café carriage serving barista coffee, snacks, and refreshments
✅ Optional Silver Star Dinner Service on the journey home

Whether you're a lifelong railway enthusiast, photographer, or simply looking for a unique Kiwi adventure, Raurimu Thunder delivers an epic day of heritage rail travel, stunning scenery, and unforgettable steam action.

📍 Board at: Plimmerton | Paraparaumu | Ōtaki | Levin | Palmerston North

Book now and experience the thunder of steam on New Zealand's most famous railway ascent!
https://www.mainlinesteam.co.nz/new-page-1-1

03/09/2026

Father's Day is just around the corner! Here are five great ideas to make the most of Father's Day weekend in Ruapehu:

Play a round of golf at one of the region's great golf courses
Spend a day on the slopes
Grab a bite to eat at one of Ruapehu's many great cafés, restaurants, and eateries
Hit the mountain biking trails
Swap screen time for green time and enjoy the great outdoors

Whether Dad loves adventure, relaxation, or great food, Ruapehu has plenty of ways to make Father's Day one to remember.

01/09/2026

To celebrate the first day of spring, we've rounded up some fantastic experiences you can enjoy for $25 and under.

🥕 Ohakune Carrotland Adventure Park
Home to the world's biggest Carrot Rocket, this quirky attraction is packed with fun for all ages. Explore walking and biking tracks, tackle the obstacle course, zoom down the flying fox, splash through mountain streams, and enjoy picnic spots surrounded by native bush. Best of all, it's free to enjoy year-round!

🎖️ National Army Museum Te Mata Toa
Located in Waiouru, this world-class museum brings New Zealand's military history to life through fascinating exhibitions and collections. A premium one-hour guided tour is just $19 per adult and $9 per child, including museum entry.

💦 Chase Ruapehu's Waterfalls
From the stunning Taranaki Falls and the famous Tawhai Falls (Gollum's Pool) to Waitonga Falls, the highest waterfall in Tongariro National Park, Ruapehu is home to spectacular waterfalls that can be enjoyed year-round.

Adventure doesn't have to break the bank. Discover even more budget-friendly activities and hidden gems around Ruapehu:
🔗 https://www.visitruapehu.com/blog/fantastic-fun-you-can-have-for-under-25-or-free-in-ruapehu

28/08/2026

🍽️ A massive congratulations to Jack and the team at The Chef's Table at Blue Duck Station, who have been recognised in the 2026 Cuisine Good Food Guide.

Retaining their two-hat status, The Chef's Table continues to stand out as one of New Zealand's most unique dining experiences. Tucked in the Whanganui National Park, it offers a truly remote and unforgettable culinary journey.

The experience feels deeply personal, with a 10-course menu that changes daily and showcases ingredients that are farmed, foraged, and grown right on the station.

Ready to experience one of New Zealand's most unique dining destinations? Book your table today: https://www.thechefstable.co.nz/

27/08/2026

The King Country Express is back on 4 October! Step aboard Glenbrook Vintage Railway's heritage train and enjoy a classic day of mainline steam as Ab 608 "Passchendaele" powers south from the Waikato into the heart of the King Country.

From the moment the whistle echoes through Frankton, you'll be transported back to the golden age of rail travel, with the unmistakable beat of a steam locomotive leading the way and spectacular North Island scenery unfolding outside your window.

Departing Hamilton, passengers can also join the train at Te Awamutu, Otorohanga, and Te Kuiti before tackling the rugged countryside south of Te Kuiti.

📍 Board at: Hamilton | Te Awamutu | Otorohanga | Te Kuiti
🎟️ Adult: $135 | Child: $95

📅 Saturday, 4 October
Book now and experience the magic of mainline steam!
https://www.gvr.org.nz/event/kexp

23/08/2026

Did you know one of Ruapehu's most unique landmarks is hidden at the end of Fishers Track?

Made entirely from horseshoes collected throughout the valley, this remarkable sculpture stands as a tribute to the Kaitieke community and the important role horses played in farming life and military service.

Created in 2015 to mark 100 years of Returned Services, the sculpture was the vision of local farm owner and former councillor Elaine Wheeler and was designed by a local Ruatiti artist. Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience, service, and community spirit.

If you're exploring this beautiful corner of the Ruapehu district, be sure to stop by and take a closer look. There's a fascinating story behind every horseshoe.

📍 Fishers Track, Ruapehu District

Mountains to Sea NZ

21/08/2026

Join The Kitchen in Ohakune for an unforgettable six-course Thai dining experience with acclaimed chef Pete Gawron, founder of Arrowtown's renowned Saffron Restaurant.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours of Thailand as Pete shares his passion for authentic Southeast Asian cuisine through a specially curated banquet menu.

9, 10 & 11 September
The Kitchen, 4 Thames Street, Ohakune
$70 per person
Dietary requirements accommodated

Seating is strictly limited and bookings are essential.

Book now: 06 385 8664 or 0204 452 834

Experience an exclusive six-course Thai Banquet with celebrated chef Pete Gawron at The Kitchen, Ohakune. Three nights only, 9-11 September. Limited seating, bookings essential.

20/08/2026

Drax Project in Ruapehu is an absolute treat!

We’re so pleased to have these talented Kiwi musicians in our region ahead of their show at the Powderhorn Chateau - Mt. Ruapehu - New Zealand this Saturday.

What makes it even more special is that they wanted to spend time in Ruapehu, connect with local people and hear some of the stories that make this place so special. ❤️

A huge thank you to Ngāti Rangi and the team at The Boar’s Nest for hosting us today and giving Drax Project a taste of our region.

We hope you enjoy your time in Ruapehu, we’re thrilled to have you here!

18/08/2026

Ski area closed? No worries! Ruapehu is packed with plenty of other adventures to enjoy. Whether you're after relaxation, action-packed activities, or some quality family time, there's something for everyone. From scenic walks and local attractions to delicious food and hidden gems, there's still plenty to discover and enjoy around the region.
https://www.visitruapehu.com/see-and-do