Government funding confirmed for Whakapapa ski field purchasers
Published: 10 December, 2024
Cabinet has agreed to provide Whakapapa Holdings 2024 Limited (WHL) with a loan of up to $5 million to support its purchase of the Whakapapa ski field, on the condition that WHL obtain a concession to operate the ski area from the Minister of Conservation.
Confirmation of government funding means that WHL can now proceed with the next steps in the sale process.
If WHL is granted a concession to operate the ski field, the sale is expected to be completed in April 2025 enabling the Whakapapa ski field to be open for the 2025 ski season. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts Limited's (RAL) receivers will continue to operate the Whakapapa ski area in the meantime.
The recreational activities operated on Mt Ruapehu have long been a cornerstone of the Manawatū-Whanganui economy. At its peak, RAL employed over 300 workers to support its operations on Whakapapa. Cabinet’s decision gives certainty to the local communities and businesses in the district that Whakapapa will be open in 2025.
RAL will not receive any further government funding.