Ruapehu Mountain (50 min drive)
This is an awesome mountain which last erupted in 2007 sending 1.4 m cu m of mud and stones into the Whanganui River. Sadly "The Chateau" is now closed, however you can view this magnificent old building as you drive passed. In the summer there are plenty of walks, some serious climbing to the peak (2750 m) and a 1.8 km gondola ride to a restaurant with spectacular views over this part of NZ. (During summer months, you can take the Gondola up and have "High Tea". In the winter, the mountain’s ski-fields open up 1000+ hectares of skiable terrain – the largest ski-fields in southern hemisphere. The popularity of this destination will only grow.
More info: https://www.mtruapehu.com/whakapapa and https://www.visitruapehu.com/things-to-see-and-do/ski-ruapehu/
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