There is one benefit to the cold spring we’re experiencing: an extended ski season.
Mt Ruapehu is extending its season through to Labour Weekend (October 26), it was announced on Tuesday.
Whakapapa was set to close on October 11, however both Turoa and Whakapapa will now stay open until Labour Weekend.
Executive manager commercial Simon Dickson said the unseasonably low temperatures have brought an unexpected dumping of high quality snow.
“Extensive skiable terrain and a 2.8-metre snow base means we’ve had some of the best skiing and riding conditions at Whakapapa for a number of years,” he said.
MetService have forecast a cooler September than usual, with a drier period towards the end of the month.
“It’s definitely been a cold start,” said MetService meteorologist Claire Flynn.
The season had already seen more snow events than usual.
In celebration, Mt Ruapehu is offering a giveaway of a Mt Ruapehu Discover Package for up to two adults and three children, worth over $500. The package includes a full day Beginners’ area lift pass (to ride the lifts at Whakapapa’s Happy Valley or Alpine Meadow at Turoa), and a full day hire of skis, boots and poles or snowboard and boots, as well as a Discover ski or snowboard group lesson.