Ohakune

Rightfully called the ‘Aprés – ski capital of the North’, this town of Ohakune has undergone a total transformation and facelift from being a traditional ‘Carrot Capital’ to a hip urban party town.

Strategically positioned on the foothills of the Mountain Road, it directly leads to the famous ‘Turoa Ski Resort’ on Mount Ruapehu. For all over the year, except the skiing season, Ohakune is characterized by a quiet rural habitat, laying its importance much on quality vegetable production.

During the skiing season, that is from June to October, the place takes a completely new look. As twilight strikes, people start playing cool music, having cool wines, roaring fires, and friends happily chatting all the way along. It gives the place a wonderful holiday atmosphere. You would also easily find a multitude of chalets for an economical overnight stay during your trip.

The township is segregated into two logical regions, namely the Junction and the Ruapehu. The Junction has a station and numerous small hotels and restaurants.
On the other hand, the Ruapehu will provide you a broad array of shops, stuffing a good choice of clothing and craft handicrafts and artefacts.

Okahune can easily be called the ‘Queenstown of the North’, with its many experiences it has to offer one. You can experience the thrill of mountaineering, ice climbing, jet boating, golfing, skiing and many more. The premier ski fields are Tuora and Whakapapa.

After the snow on the mountains start melting, the street traffic starts slowing down. That is the time when bikers kick off and white water rafting comes to life everywhere.

Off the long Mountain road around 17 kilometres long are the best walking tracks. Mangawhero Forest Walk is bang in front of the Dept. of Conservation Centre. Going further up, you shall come across the Rimu Track and the Old Byth Lake. There is a pretty little lake called Rotokura at Kairoi, which is an ideal picnic spot.

So, whatever is the period of the year, Ohakune has a variety to offer and indulge you in a variety of happenings all year long.