Ruapehu is marking the opening of the winter ski season with a range of Queen’s Birthday Weekend activities.

Happy Valley, the beginners ski facility at Whakapapa on Mt Ruapehu, will open Saturday, June 5, with the rest of the mountain open from July 3 onwards, weather dependent.

The snow factory has been pumping out snow for the past five weeks bolstering a couple of dustings courtesy of mother nature, Ruapehu Alpine Lifts reported.

Snow was also in the forecast over the coming week, RAL said.

Due to Covid-19, Mt Ruapehu had to limit capacity and facilities last year. This winter season, across both Tūroa and Whakapapa, all lifts, cafes and rental facilities will be fully operational.

For those keen to experience the mountain at new heights, the Sky Waka gondola ride will also reopen on June 5. The longest, most advanced gondola ride in New Zealand, Sky Waka is a 1.8-kilometre journey into the clouds above Tongariro National Park.

For some iconic family fun off the mountain, the annual Fresh Direct Ōhakune Carrot Carnival is back on June 5 at the Ōhakune Junction.

“Each year, this well-loved event attracts more and more visitors into our region. It’s a great day out for the family with an incredible array of local crafts and goods, rides, games, entertainment, as well as a delicious range of food stalls showcasing Kiwi favourites and international fare,” Sarah Williams, marketing manager for Visit Ruapehu, explained.

The Annual Growers Games, a spud and spoon race and the popular carrot cake competition are just some highlights at the carnival.

A new development this year is a free-entry after-party at the iconic Kings Ōhakune from 9pm. A lineup of local DJs will ring in winter with vegetarian cocktails on the menu.

Another local favourite, Johnny Nation’s Chocolate Eclair Shop, is also reopening.

For those looking to indulge, Chateau Tongariro is offering a Queen’s Birthday High Tea with a Royal Twist, available from June 4-7.

Credit: Stuff.co.nz