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Newsletter November 2025
Whanganui Ski and Snowboard Club
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From a slow start to powder paradise: Whakapapa 2025 in review!
Tēnā koutou, club members and snow lovers,
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This year, Whakapapa reminded us all why we love the maunga. The 2025 season was a journey – a test of patience, a celebration of resilience, and ultimately, a triumph for everyone who made it to the slopes.
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A new chapter on the mountain
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2025 marked a fresh chapter for Mt Ruapehu. With Whakapapa Holdings Limited (WHL) stepping in under a new 10-year concession, the mountain buzzed with renewed energy. Investments in infrastructure – including ten new automated snow guns – meant we could tackle early-season challenges with confidence.
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A special nod to CEO Travis Doungahue, who gave our club free access to the Rangatira Chair. Just say you’re popping up to the club, and you can ride both ways whenever it’s open! The WHL team’s dedication and warmth have made this season feel truly special – an AAA experience for all of us.
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Winter was fashionably late this year. Warmer-than-usual July days meant limited snow cover, and we all learned the art of patience. But as the temperatures dropped and snowmaking kicked in, the mountain transformed, and top-to-bottom skiing on the Gondola became a reality.
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August and September: Magic arrives
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Then the mountain truly came alive. A series of cold snaps and snowstorms transformed Whakapapa, delivering over 90cm of pristine snow. The mid-season dump unlocked the western terrain for the first time since 2023. Fresh powder, wide-open trails, and uninterrupted top-to-bottom runs made it a season to remember. And yes – the West Ridge Chair reopened after four long years!
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Community highlights and looking ahead
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This season also celebrated community. The NIPS (North Island Primary and Intermediate Schools Ski Championships) returned after six years, and club events like the life member lunch and fundraising dinner brought us together on and off the slopes.
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As we head into summer, our heartfelt thanks go to our committee, volunteers, and the WHL team for making this season possible.
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Lock in your spot and start dreaming of powder-filled runs for next year. The sale ends in two days, so be sure to get this in your Christmas stocking…
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As of Tuesday, 11 November 2025, recent rain has helped contain the 2,800-hectare fire. Observation flights show no visible flames, but officials warn it is not yet fully extinguished. Firefighters are transitioning to monitoring and patrolling the area. Investigators are seeking dashcam footage from anyone in the region around 8 November.
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Ngā mihi nui,
The Whanganui Ski & Snowboard Club Committee
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