It took about four and a half hours to get from Wellington to the YHA Hostel in Ohakune where we were staying for the weekend, the nearest town to Turoa ski field. The weather didn’t look promising in the morning, but as we began climbing, to my delight, we emerged above the clouds with Mount Ruapehu in clear view. Turoa ski field is on one side of the volcano; on the other side is the more commonly known area of Whakapapa.


Above the clouds in Turoa

We got booted up and made our way to get our passes. Rather than taking one of the readily available lessons, I asked my friend who had been before to give me a few pointers and a helping hand to get me to my feet on the board. In hindsight, a brief lesson may have been a good idea! I thought I was ready to have a go without a guiding hand. I was OK at going, it was the stopping I had to master - falling over to avoid children gets tiring.

After lunch and some more practicing we headed up in the chairlift to the beginners’ run, I found getting into the chairlift easier than the nightmare scenario I had heard it was. You slide forward to the line and get scooped up by the seat that comes from behind you and away you go. From that height you can admire the pros going down some of the more difficult runs, and, of course, the scenery.


Turoa vista

At the top, there was a learner/practice area. I had issues getting to a standing position, as my board would take off without me, sometimes with me crouching on it. Funny for onlookers I’m sure.

I decided to return to the learner/practice area before heading down the run. To get back to the top you can use the button lift (poma) to pull yourself along. I put the rubber button behind my arm and was jerkily pulled along, I tensed every muscle in my body in an attempt to ‘stay strong’ as instructed but my board was out from under me and I was rolling along the snow. I let go, made my way to the side, unclipped my board and walked to the top.

The beginners’ run was great, nice and long with not too many steep bits. By the fourth go I was gaining confidence, falling over less frequently and getting faster. After five hours on the volcano I was exhausted and we called it a day.
A hot shower followed by a beer in town was bliss.

The next day we were going to have another go, unfortunately every muscle in my body hurt and I decided to give it a miss. However, I am planning on going again this season - before long I’ll be a pro on that button lift - I’m sure!


And next year ?


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