Ohakune

Where is it?

Just on the edge of New Zealand’s mountainous heartland, Ohakune is the gateway to the Turoa ski area just on the edge of the Tongariro National Park. The town is also in fertile land making it the centre of the nation’s vegetable growing region; it even proclaims itself the Carrot Capital of NZ!

What is it like?

Busy during the winter and quieter at other times though it is a place with plenty to offer out of season (mid November to early June).

What to see? What to do?

A short 12-mile trip up the road brings you to the snow covered slopes of Mount Ruapehu and the Turoa ski region. Very busy in the season.
Out of season, this beautiful area gives itself over to walkers and mountain bikers. There are the usual range of watery activities on the Whanganui River (see Wanganui) It is much quieter at this time of year.

Eating, Drinking and Sleeping

In the winter, the choice of places to stay is huge. Prices are higher at the height of the season and you need to book in advance. Some of these places close in the summer but prices are lower.
The same is true of bars, nightlife and restaurants, in the winter the place is humming but during the summer it is a different story.