There are three ski fields on Mt Ruapehu: Tukino; Whakapapa; and Tūroa. These are between 100 and 150 km from Omaio and take from 1.5 to 2 hours driving to reach their carparks.
The Tukino ski field is a club-operated skiing, snowboarding and climbing area on the eastern flanks of Ruapehu. Since the prevailing wind is from the west this area is often sheltered from winds. It is open to the general public but there are only limited tow facilities, three club lodges and no cafe or food sold on site. You need to take your own lunch.
The turn off to the access road to the field is 46 km south of Turangi on State Highway 1 (SH1) or 95 km from Taupō. It should take about 1.5 hours from Taupō to reach the 2WD vehicle carpark, which is some distance along this access road. More details on access options for getting to the field and facilities available can be found on the website.
This is a link to Tukino’s website.
The Whakapapa Ski Area is on the northern flank of Ruapehu and the Tūroa Ski Area is on its southern flank. Both are operated by Ruapehu Alpine Lifts Ltd and have extensive tow facilities and food and beverage options.
Whakapapa is approximately 100 km from Taupō using SH1 to the south of Turangi and then SH47. It should take around 1.5 hours to reach the carpark. Tūroa is approximately 150 km from Taupō. It should take around 2 hours to reach the carpark using SH1 to the south of Turangi and then SH47.
This is a link to Ruapehu Alpine Lift’s website.
It gives details on access, pricing and facilities.
There is a shuttle service between Taupō and Whakapapa.