It will be a white Christmas at Mt Rupaehu this year as Ruapehu Alpine Lifts (RAL) announces the special re-opening of Whakapapa Ski Area for summer skiing and boarding from December 7 to January 5.

Base over two metres
Thanks to big snowfalls this winter and more snow just last week, a 2.5 metre snow base remains at Knoll Ridge (2000m), enabling the Ski Area to offer summer skiing.

"Summer skiing is a huge bonus for the region and skiers and boarders alike. We last opened for a short period in the summer of 1994/1995 and back then it was hugely popular," says Mike Smith, Mt Ruapehu Marketing Manager."After the difficult weather we've had throughout this winter we think there'll be a huge demand for summer skiing, and with plenty of snow in good condition at this time of year it's hard to beat."

Bikini Skiing
RAL plans to open access lifts and the Knoll Ridge T-Bar, together with the Valley T-Bar on busy days, to provide skiing and boarding on the upper mountain. "With the summer sun beating down we're expecting to see a few bikini clad skiers and groups enjoying picnics up around the crater lake area over Christmas and New Year. Summer skiing on the mountain is a very relaxed activity. Visitors can get up early and catch some great runs in the morning, relax over a late lunch as the snow softens and enjoy some other activities in the region in the afternoon."

RAL has announced a special offer of day passes for just $32 (adult pass) and $16 (16 years and under). Those who had 2002 adult and student season passes will pay only $22, and those with 2002 Youth season passes will pay only $11. Those who hold life passes can ski for free. For only $20 skiers can take groomer rides every half-hour in the morning to 2300m, where skiers can check out new terrain or hike just 30-40 minutes to the crater lake.

Mt Ruapehu offers traditional summer activities too
The opening of the ski area coincides with the opening of the mountain for the summer sightseeing and guided walk season, and lifts will be open between 9am and 3.30pm. "With 40,000 - 50,000 people staying in the Taupo region for their summer break, Mt Ruapehu offers the very different experience of being able to come play in the snow as part of your summer holiday."

Many thanks to Colin Slater for this story.

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