Ruapehu
In July 2004 we caught the start of the skiing season at Whakapapa ski field on Mt Ruapehu. Only a couple of lifts were open but the snow was good, the staff friendly and the experience of skiing on an active volcano a new one for us. This was also the Lord of the Rings film location for Mordor!
A chairlift is often open for scenic trips up the mountain without skiing or walking back down and in the summer there are lots of hiking trails nearby, including the famous Tongariro crossing.
Eating:
The resort café
At the base of the slopes, this serves standard ski resort fare.
Sleeping:
Aorangi ski club lodge
We stayed here. It's very handy for the lifts and warm and friendly inside, but is a members only club. Check out their website though for pay and stay opportunities.
The Grand Chateau
At the bottom of the ski resort road, this is an impressive looking building and apparently quite a fun place to stay. Handy for hiking in the summer.
