
First timer packages

Start your snow adventure with everything you need in one simple package.
If it’s your first time skiing or snowboarding, our First Timer packages are the easiest way to get started. Each package includes lift access in the beginner area, a lesson with a qualified instructor, and rental gear — all organised in one booking.
No experience needed. Our instructors will guide you through the basics so you can build confidence and enjoy your first day on the mountain.

Whats included
lift pass
Lesson
Rental gear
Package options
Adult Midweek Package
Perfect for beginners visiting during the week. Learn the basics with the support of our instructors and enjoy a relaxed first day on the snow.
✓ 1 x Mid week Alpine meadow pass.
✓ 1 x First timer group lesson with qualified instructor.
✓ 1 x Ski or snowboard rental package.
✓ 1 x Helmet included.
$119
Youth Midweek Package
Perfect for beginners visiting during the week. Learn the basics with the support of our instructors and enjoy a relaxed first day on the snow. Ages 4-12 (ski) 7-12 (snowboard).
✓ 1 x Mid week Alpine meadow pass.
✓ 1 x First timer group lesson with qualified instructor.
✓ 1 x Ski or snowboard rental package.
✓ 1 x Helmet included.
$119
Adult Weekend Package
For beginners visiting on the weekend. Learn the basics with the support of our instructors and enjoy a relaxed first day on the snow.
✓ 1 x Weekend Alpine Meadow pass.
✓ 1 x First timer group lesson with qualified instructor.
✓ 1 x Ski or snowboard rental package.
✓ 1 x Helmet included.
$139
Youth Weekend Package
For beginners visiting on the weekend. Learn the basics with the support of our instructors and enjoy a relaxed first day on the snow. Ages 4-12 (ski) 7-12 (snowboard).
✓ 1 x Weekend Alpine Meadow pass.
✓ 1 x First timer group lesson with qualified instructor.
✓ 1 x Ski or snowboard rental package.
✓ 1 x Helmet included.
$139
Qualified instructors
Dedicated Beginners area
Packages include rentals
What to Expect on Your First Day
Your first day on the snow should feel exciting, welcoming, and easy to navigate. Our First Timer packages include everything you need to get started — quality equipment, a lesson with an experienced instructor, and lift access to beginner-friendly areas of the mountain.
Set against the spectacular landscape of Mt Ruapehu, you’ll be guided every step of the way as you learn the basics of skiing or snowboarding and enjoy your first time on the snow.
Helpful information
- Lessons run daily from 9:30am with multiple time options
- Rental gear is fitted in our on-mountain rentals shop
- Clothing hire is available as an optional extra
- You’ll need gloves, goggles and a beanie — available for purchase in our retail store
Not skiing or snowboarding? You can still enjoy the mountain with sledding and sightseeing, or relax fireside at Freddie’s Tasting Room or the Alpine Café.

Ready to Try Skiing or Snowboarding?

FAQ
Check out our most frequently asked questions
Booking a First Timer’s Package covers all the essentials, and we highly recommend adding a helmet rental for kids & adults. Weatherproof outerwear, gloves, sunscreen and eye protection are also essential for a comfortable day. You can rent weatherproof jackets and pants on the mountain, and our retail shop offers a selection of gloves and eyewear for purchase.
Kids morning lessons start at 10am, and you can drop off from 9.45am. Kids afternoon lessons start at 12.45pm and you can drop off from 12.30pm. If lunch is added to an afternoon lesson, drop off is 12pm.
Adult morning lessons also start at 10am at the same meeting point.
Adult lessons after 10am will run on the hour depending on availability and demand.
For families, we recommend dropping the kids off at 9.50am so you have 10 minutes to find your own instructor.
You are welcome to bring a packed lunch with you, however these can only be consumed in the designated areas. Please follow the pack in - pack out rule and take any rubbish back down with you.
We recommend everyone to wear helmets for skiing or snowboarding. Under 12s are required to wear helmets in lessons. There are rentals and retail options available for helmets at Tūroa. Snow school programme participants are required to wear helmets.
Absolutely. We’ve got custom packages designed specifically for beginners to help you get started the right way. Check out our first-time packages for the best value to get you – or your family – out on the snow.
Winter conditions and weather on the mountain can change quickly. Rain or shine it's best to have waterproof outerwear, eye protection and sunscreen. If you arrive without something you need we have an extensive rentals and retail offering on the mountain.
Single day tickets and sightseeing passes are validated by being scanned and can be used on any day of the season (subject to weekend/weekday) so no action is need . Come and see us at our town store or email us at info@pureturoa.nz. Multi day tickets will be refunded to mountain credit per the difference of days used (this only applies to days where the chairlifts are not operating). You will be contacted if you have lessons booked on a day that is closed.
Some kids get on skis as soon as they can stand, and some people only start as adults so there's no right age to start. We take children in group lessons for skiing at 4 years old and snowboarding at 7 years old. For younger children you’ll need to book a private lesson.
If you want kids and adults in the same lesson, you'll need to book a private lesson. Since kids and adults learn at different speeds and in different ways, we recommend our First Timers packages for all first time ski and snowboarders, where lessons are split by age for the best start.
First Timer/Level 1: You’ve never been on skis or a snowboard before. A First Timer package is recommended to get you started.
Level 2: You’re comfortable with the basics, can stop confidently, and are working on turning and speed control in learner areas, preparing for Green runs.
Level 3: You can control your speed and turn both ways on green runs. You’ll be working on gaining more control and confidence to help progress to blue runs.
Level 4: You’re confident on green and blue runs. You’re refining your parallel turns (skis) or edge control (snowboard) and are eager to explore more terrain.
Level 5: You’re ready to take your skills to the next level. Confidently skiing or snowboarding groomed black runs, starting to explore off-piste terrain, and interested in refining skills and hitting the terrain park.
Level 6: You confidently ski or snowboard all over the mountain and already explore off-piste terrain. Your focus is on taking these skills further, refining technique and confidence, and tackling more demanding slopes and snow conditions
Still have questions?
Get in touch with our team, we are happy to help.

