Rocky Mountain Chalets, Ohakune

12/08/2026

Tim Roxborogh

1d
·
Here’s my Herald article about one of my absolute favourite places, the Ruapehu region in the central North Island. And more than that, I love it in winter and I don’t even ski, though as you’ll read, taking the children to the snow for the first time was such an awesome experience.
In the article you’ll hear about some of the most stunning bush walks in the area, why both Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields are must-visits for different reasons, world class cycle trails, quirky and terrific museums, one of the best playgrounds in the country, some restaurant/cafe recommendations and the hotels and lodges we were lucky enough to stay.
Speaking of which, we stayed in a beautiful new lodge high in the hills above Tamarunui (Oranleigh Lodge), deep in the remarkable, Singapore-sized Pureora Forest (Timber Trail Lodge), at a wonderfully convivial hotel in Waimarino/National Park (The Park Hotel), and some excellent chalets in Ohakune (Rocky Mountain Chalets).
Thanks to the good people at Ruapehu NZ - enjoy the article!
Oranleigh Lodge
Timber Trail Lodge & Transport - Adventure & Comfort in Pureora Forest Park
The Park Hotel Ruapehu
Rocky Mountain Chalets, Ohakune

05/08/2026

Don't delay book today.
Midweek specials only the weekends have booked out.

05/08/2026

OHAKUNE RETRO DAY IS BACK!

Dust off the neon, dig out the one-pieces, and prep those retro shades—the ultimate winter tradition returns on Saturday, 3rd October!

Whether you're carving up Tūroa, soaking up the apres-ski vibes, or just here for the nostalgia, Retro Day is the undisputed peak of the season. It’s time to raid the thrift stores, hit up your parents' wardrobe, and start plotting the ultimate throwback fit.

🗓️ When: Saturday, 3rd October
📍 Where: Secret Garden - 4 Thames St
👗 Dress Code: Loud, bright, and strictly retro.
🏆 Prizes, tasty bites, and all the Apres ski

04/08/2026

First snow of season just landed here at Rocky Mountain Chalets.

31/07/2026

https://www.whakapapa.com/report

Discover Whakapapa during summer or winter! Ride the country's most advanced gondola, Sky Waka, high above the beautiful world-heritage-listed mountain area all year round. Ski or Snowboard one of NZ's largest Ski areas, Whakapapa and all winter long for action packed family fun all year.

31/07/2026

https://www.pureturoa.nz/snow-report

Stay up-to-date on Tūroa weather and snow conditions, lift status, temperature and more.

30/07/2026

Snow report
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Updated on: 31/7/2026 8:14 AM
All facilities are closed for the day due to heavy snow and high winds. Our teams are busy working on the road and assessing the new snow. The snow is set to stick around all day which will be a welcome bump to the already impressive July conditions we’ve had.

30/07/2026