Snow sports: High Noon Express opening marks opening of Mt Ruapehu ski season

Turoa Ski Area's High Noon Express chairlift is set to open on Saturday, July 26, offering a full-mountain experience.

Tūroa Ski Area’s High Noon Express chairlift will open this Saturday, marking the first weekend of the 2025 season on Mt Ruapehu.

The high-speed, six-seater chairlift has a vertical rise of 398m.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer guests top-to-bottom skiing for the first time this winter on Tūroa’s premier terrain,” Tūroa chief executive Jono Dean said.

Facilities on the mountain will be open with increased capacity on Saturday, including The Giant Café and Snowflake Big Mountain Burgers.

The Giant Café will also feature a DJ on Saturday.

With high visitor numbers anticipated for the weekend, Tūroa is encouraging visitors to plan ahead.

“The weather for Saturday is looking mint so we’re preparing for a busy weekend up the mountain,” Dean said.

“We encourage guests to pre-purchase their passes online or at Tūroa HQ in Ohakune, which means there’s more time to enjoy a hearty breakfast in Freddie’s prior to hitting the slopes for a big day of riding.”

To stay updated on snow conditions, lift operations and events, visit turoa.com.