Our school holidays guide to Tūroa and Ohakune

Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained these winter school holidays? Whether you're visiting for a day or planning a family getaway, Ohakune is packed with adventures for all ages.

From snowy fun at Tūroa to family-friendly activities around town, here's our guide to making the most of your winter escape.

On the mountain

Ride the chairlift

Take a scenic chairlift ride high onto Mt Ruapehu and soak up spectacular views across the Central Plateau. Warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate or lunch at the Alpine Cafe & Bar.

Sightseeing passes

Learn to ski or snowboard

There's no better time to learn.

Book a lesson with Tūroa's Snow School, where qualified instructors teach children from age four to ski and age seven to snowboard. Whether it's your first time or you're ready to build confidence, our lessons are designed to help everyone progress.

Want everything sorted? Our First Timer Packages include your lesson, rental equipment and lift pass.

Group lessons at Tūroa

Go sledding

Not skiing? No worries.

Grab a sled and enjoy one of the easiest and most affordable ways to experience the snow. It's guaranteed fun for kids (and grown-ups too).

Sledding passes

Build a snowman

Think you can build the coolest snowman on the maunga? Roll up some snow, get creative and enter our Tūroa Snowman Competition.

Simply build your snowman, snap a photo and tag @Tūroa on social media or email your masterpiece to info@pureturoa.nz. We'll share our favourites and there are prizes up for grabs!

Join the Tūroa scavenger hunt

Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet from Guest Services and see if your tamariki can uncover all the clues hidden around the ski area.

It's a fun way to explore the mountain together, with a prize waiting for everyone who completes the challenge.

Enter the Morrell Motors colouring competition

Need a quieter activity between adventures?

Pick up a colouring sheet from Guest Services, unleash your creativity and go in the draw to win fantastic prizes thanks to Morrell Motors.

Refuel at Freddie's Tasting Lounge

After a morning in the snow, settle in for a well-earned meal.

Freddie's Tasting Lounge offers a cosy place to warm up, relax and watch the mountain. With a menu of delicious food and drinks, it's the perfect spot to recharge before heading back out onto the snow.

Around Ohakune

Visit Carrot Adventure Park

No trip to Ohakune is complete without visiting the famous Carrot Adventure Park! Let the kids burn off some energy while you relax and enjoy the views of Mt Ruapehu.

Explore on two wheels

Hire bikes from one of Ohakune's local retailers and discover stunning scenic trails suitable for the whole family.

Wander through native bush

Stretch the legs on one of the many walking tracks around Ohakune. Old growth native forest, fresh mountain air and plenty of space make it the perfect family outing.

Indoor rock climbing

If the weather isn't playing ball, head indoors and test your climbing skills. It's a great activity for energetic kids and adventurous adults alike.

Vertigo Indoor Climbing

Visit Dinosaur House

One of Raetihi's hidden gems, Dinosaur House is packed with prehistoric fun and is sure to delight younger explorers.

Dinosaur House

Explore the National Army Museum

Just a short drive from Ohakune, the National Army Museum offers fascinating exhibits, interactive displays and plenty to discover for curious minds.

Army Museum

Play a round of disc golf

Enjoy some friendly family competition at one of the local disc golf courses. It's easy to learn and fun for all ages.

Ohakune Disc Golf

Make these school holidays one to remember

With sightseeing, skiing, sledding, great food, and plenty to explore around Ohakune, there's something for every member of the family!

Book your school holiday adventure today and discover why Tūroa and Ohakune is one of New Zealand's favourite winter family destinations.