RAL receives funding so season can go ahead

The government has agreed to provide $7 million to RAL to ensure the 2024 ski season can go ahead on Whakapapa.

The government also agreed to provide $3.05 million in equity and loan funding to support the sale of Tūroa ski field assets to Pure Tūroa.

Puketoi Mountain Club members can plan for skiing at Ruapehu this winter with more certainty. However, the government has said this will their final support package.

RMCA council subsequently met withTravis Donoghue, CEO of Whakapapa who confirmed that planning for the upcoming season is underway.

Key points from that meeting: 

• Season passes will be on sale in April
• Whakapapa will have a big focus on snow school, targeting more instructors and more lessons
• Key events will be back, eg NIPS
• Whakapapa is very happy with its number of applications for winter roles
• Whakapapa is keen to work closely with clubs and the new operator of Tūroa (concession pending) to nurture and promote North Island snow sports.