'The Magic Mountain'
Written: Jan 18 '01 (Updated Jan 18 '01)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Great range and variety of slopes accommodating skiers of all skill levels.
Cons: Seasons can sometimes be short.
The Bottom Line: Family friendly, great staff, wide range of slopes accommodates skiers of varied skill levels.
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| Strangelove's Full Review: Whakapapa |
If you're planning on holidaying in North Island of New Zealand during the Winter, then skiing Whakapapa is a great idea. The season, although obviously subject to weather variation, usually starts towards the end of June and runs up until early November each year.
Although in recent years activity on the slopes of 'The Magic Mountain' has largely been limited to that of the volcanic kind, such geological delight has more recently been superseded by great dumps of snow, good weather, and the recent purchase of the Turoa ski fields on the other side of the mountain. Seismic activity has traditionally been rare and interested parties should rest assured that skiing Whakapapa is extremely safe, and great staff provide a very effective and comprehensive early warning system.
I learnt to ski on Whakapapa and found the instructors friendly, helpful, exceedingly polite, and patient. A wide variety of fields provide challenges for advanced skiers as well as great beginners slopes and is a relatively family friendly mountain. Snowboarding is increasingly popular and is also well provided for.
Equipment can be rented on the mountain and Skis, Boots, and Poles are available for full day rental at $26 for adults and $16 for children (thats about $13 and $8 US respectively). Lift charges for a full day are $54 for adults and $27 for children (NZ dollars). Full season passes are also available at a maximum price of $499 for adults, $379 for students, and $249 for children (NZ).
Tailored holiday packages can also be arranged via 'Whakapapa Holidays' (http://www.whakapapa.co.nz/holidays.html). Creche and day care facilities are also available.
I've always found my experiences at Whakapapa to be highly enjoyable and recommend it for its wide range of slopes, the friendliness of its staff. It is also very family friendly and well priced (especially for tourists). Accommodation in the surrounding area is widely available and Whakapapa makes a great weekend experience.
Recommended:
Yes
Level of Experience Needed: All
Best Time to Visit: August
Best Suited For: Families
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Epinions.com ID:
Strangelove
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Reviews written: 3
Trusted by: 23 members
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