With blue skies and fresh snow on the mountains and ranges, Taupō is the ultimate winter holiday destination for all ages. Mt Ruapehu is in the Central Plateau of New Zealand’s North Island, and only a short 90 minute drive from Suncourt Hotel & Conference Centre. Mt Ruapehu is the main mountain and has two neighbouring ones which are Mt Ngāuruhoe and Mt Tongariro. All three are known for their cultural  and geographical significance, the peaks form part of the UNESCO Dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park, one of New Zealand’s premier outdoor destinations. There is much to explore in this area whether it’s skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowball fights or a hot coffee. We highly recommend a day or more exploring all that Mt Ruapehu has to offer. 

Here a few tips to help you plan your day

• Whakapapa Ski Area is New Zealand’s largest ski area with over 65 trails to discover and is a great option for the beginner and the expert. It is home to Happy Valley which also happens to be New Zealand’s largest beginner ski and snow area. This is ideal for the family winter holiday as this is where ski and snowboard lessons take place and is ideal for sledding and just building snowmen! At Whakapapa you will find Knoll Ridge Chalet which is situated 2,020m above sea level and is accessible on the Sky Waka Gondala– this in itself is an experience!
• For skis, snowboards and general snow clothes, we suggest popping by Snowscene in Turangi on the way to the mountain, and it makes for an easy drop off on the way home. These guys have been around for 39 years so know the mountain and the best gear for you to get the most out of it. They also have an easy to use booking system or they are more than happy to take walk-ins.
• After a day on the slopes, we recommend Wairakei Terraces to warm up and soak those tired muscles, before relaxing at the Lake Bistro with a glass of wine. 

Remember, always check the weather! To see the latest live updates, click here.