Yes, it snows on Mt Ruapehu. Winter snowfall covers the mountain and provides snow for skiing at Whakapapa, Tūroa and Tūkino
Yes, it snows on Mount Ruapehu, with snow typically falling from autumn through to spring. Snow can remain on the upper slopes into late spring, although the amount and coverage vary from year to year.
For visitors, the main thing to understand is that snow on the mountain doesn’t necessarily mean snow in the surrounding towns, which are generally well below the snowline. That said, we have seen snow settle at lower levels during major snowstorms.
Where you find the snow depends on the time of year, recent weather and how far up the mountain you go.
Ski Fields on Mt Ruapehu
When does it snow on Mt Ruapehu?
Winter is the main season for snow on Mt Ruapehu, which can be from autumn through late spring. As snow builds up, it fills the mountain’s volcanic gullies and covers rocky terrain, creating the slopes used by skiers and snowboarders.
Whakapapa describes this seasonal snow coverage as developing across its terrain from June through October.
Opening dates depend on conditions. A fresh dusting can make the mountain look wintry, but ski areas need enough settled snow to prepare runs and open terrain safely.
| Season stage | Months | Typical snow conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Season start | June | Late May and early June can bring snowfalls that help establish the winter base. Early-season snow can be thin and variable. Whakapapa and Tūroa open terrain progressively as snow coverage and conditions allow. |
| Winter base building | July–August | The snowpack generally builds through the middle of winter, creating a deeper base for skiing and snowboarding. Snow depths vary with snowfall, rain, wind and temperature. |
| Spring skiing | September–October | The accumulated winter snowpack can provide good coverage into spring. Mid-August through September, and sometimes early October, can offer a well-established base. The timing of the deepest snowpack varies each year. |
Is there still snow in spring?
Oh Yes, snow on Mt Ruapehu can last right through to October, offering great spring skiing.
Coverage and ski area operations are subject to weather conditions, snow levels. For example, snow may remain higher up on the mountain even when lower slopes have become patchy or lifts have finished operating for the season.
Does Mt Ruapehu have snow in summer?
No it generally doesn’t snow on Mt Ruapehu during the summer months, although there are rare exceptions – there are generally in Autumn.
Mt Ruapehu isn’t completely free of snow and ice in summer. The mountain has glaciers, and DOC advises that snow and ice can still require mountaineering equipment above the snowline during summer climbs.
Summer visitors should therefore avoid assuming that warmer weather means the upper mountain is an easy walking destination.
Where can you see snow on Mt Ruapehu?
Mt Ruapehu has three ski areas: Whakapapa, Tūroa and Tūkino. They provide different ways to experience the mountain, from skiing and snowboarding to sightseeing and designated snow activities when available.
Before travelling, check the latest Whakapapa snow report or Tūroa snow report. Look at the webcams, road conditions and operating information as well as the snow depth.
That will give you a much clearer picture of what you can actually see and do on the day.
