Luxury Sailing, Gay New Zealand Experience
Welcome to Pure Cruise New Zealand, a luxury sailing experience
High Alti-dude
Rotorua is a perfect hub for a great guys' getaway,
with super slopes in nearby Mt Ruapehu
Take a direct flight from Sydney to Rotorua, stay for the night and the next day be the first on the ski slopes! Mt Ruapehu is home to the most awesome natural skiing and snowboarding terrain in the country: huge snow filled basins, steep chutes, drop-offs and secret powder stashes. Mt Ruapehu offers something for everyone: fantastic learners' facilities, terrain parks for snowboarders and freeskiers of all abilities, and the best spring skiing in New Zealand.
GETTING THERE
With Mt Ruapehu conveniently located right in the central North Island of New Zealand, approximately half way between Auckland and Wellington, it is easy to get here and there are many ways of making the journey
| From | To Whakapapa | To Turoa |
| Rotorua | Approx 2 hrs | Approx 2 hrs 45 mins |
| Auckland | Approx 4 hrs | Approx 4 hrs 30 mins |
| Wellington | Approx 4 hrs 30 mins | Approx 4 hrs 15 mins |
| Taupo | Approx 1 hr 15 mins | Approx 2 hrs |
| Palmerston North | Approx 2 hrs 30 mins | Approx 2 hrs 15 mins |
Bus
Nakedbus operates a service between Auckland and Wellington that stops in Rotorua and Turangi. See www.nakedbus.com. Many accommodation providers and shuttle companies provide transport to Whakapapa Ski Area from Turangi.
Intercity runs regular services from Taupo to National Park Village and Whakapapa Village. There are also services from Auckland and Wellington that stop in Rotorua, National Park Village and Ohakune. See www.intercity.co.nz.
ACCOMMODATION
Bayview Chateau Tongariro $190.00 - $475.00 (NZD)
One of New Zealand's most historic hotels and national icons with unsurpassed views of the three magnificent mountains Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. Playing host to many international and domestic visitors over its 80-year history. Chateau Tongariro has 106 rooms and at only 6km from Whakapapa, is the closest hotel to the North Island Ski Areas.
For more information: http://www.chateau.co.nz/
Bayview Chateau Tongariro
Powderhorn Chateau $198.00 - $230.00 (NZD)
Combining all the facilities of a hotel with the ambience of an European alpine lodge, the Powderhorn Chateau is situated in Ohakune at the doorstep of Tongariro National Part and Turoa skifield. The hotel suites all feature unique individual touches. Their timbered interiors, queen-sized beds and large bathrooms create a homely feel and all are furnished with quality linens and fabrics. We also have a self-contained apartment available for groups up to eight adults.
The Powderkeg is the heart of the Powderhorn Chateau and is where the most of the fun tends to begin! A favourite après ski haunt right at the bottom of the mountain road, the first bar off the slopes. No one does apres ski like the Powderkeg! Tonnes of happy skiers pour into the Powderkeg to take advantage of the open fires, great drink specials, coffees and bar snacks, including a delicious après ski cheese platter.
For more information: http://www.powderhorn.co.nz/
TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
To make the most of your trip to the snow there are some things you should know...
Book accommodation in advanceRuapehu is a busy region during the winter months, especially during weekends and school holidays. Check out the accommodation listings on our site and book early to get the best deals. |
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Make sure the boot fits!Whether renting, borrowing or buying - the most important thing when it comes to ski and snowboard boots is the fit. Your boots should feel firm but not so tight that they hurt. A well-fitted boot will make your day on the snow comfortable and give you better control of your skis or snowboard. |
Dress appropriatelyThe sun might be shining but it can still be cold up here and conditions can change rapidly. Cotton clothing like jeans offer no protection against the cold when they're wet. Wear plenty of layers of wool or synthetic fibres like polypropylene and polar fleece. |
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Get a lessonIt's hard to say this without making it sound like we're just trying to sell you a lesson but...really...honestly...the best way to learn to ski or board is from a professional instructor. Your friend may think they are super hot on the snow but does that mean they can teach? |
Rent modern equipmentSki and snowboard equipment has changed dramatically over the past 10 years. Modern skis and snowboards are lightweight, flexible, shaped to make it easier to turn and their binding systems are safer. Renting new equipment will make your time on the mountain much more fun and learning will be easier. Borrowing Aunty Sue's old skis might sound like a great money saver but it could ruin your day! It's cheap to rent on the mountain and our equipment is all no more than 4 seasons old. |
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Have fun!!Mt Ruapehu is a beautiful special place and skiing and snowboarding are so fun they border on addictive! You'll love it - enjoy!! |
For more information please do not hesitate to contact us, we can arrange your ski trip from the lodge (info@gayrotorua.co.nz). Also visit http://www.mtruapehu.com/, this website will give you more details on the snow conditions and the ski stations.
LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST
