The new operator of the Tūroa Ski Field on Mt Ruapehu, Pure Tūroa, has announced that ski passes will be available for purchase from next week. This comes after the Department of Conservation granted the company a 10-year concession to run the ski field. This decision was made 18 months after the previous operator, Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, voluntarily went into administration.
Both Pure Tūroa and the Crown are financially supporting the project. Jess Till, a spokesperson for Pure Tūroa, stated that the company is confident it has the necessary funds to make the ski field a success. She also noted that while the company only paid $1 for the ski field, it has taken on significant financial responsibilities.
The exact financial contributions from each side are yet to be determined. Till did not disclose the financial backers of Pure Tūroa, apart from the government. She also stated that they chose to only take on Tūroa and not the Whakapapa ski field due to the large financial commitment involved.
Despite some criticism regarding a lack of consultation with local iwi, Till expressed satisfaction with the process and the company’s relationship with them. She also confirmed that they have sufficient staff and are ready to start operations.
Ski pass prices will be announced on Monday, along with a special launch season pass offer. Those who purchased life passes from the previous operator will be offered a heavily discounted three-season multipass, costing $999 for adults and $299 for children. Till expressed confidence in their financial model and optimism for the upcoming season’s weather conditions.
