Whakapapa skifield on Mount Ruapehu. Photo: Unsplash / Matthew Buchanan
A private bid to run the Whakapapa ski field on Mount Ruapehu has been accepted by the Department of Conservation.
Ruapehu Alpine Lifts had run both the Whakapapa and Tūroa ski fields on the central North Island mountain.
The company went into receivership two and a half years ago, seeing Tūroa run by a new company - Pure Tūroa.
Now, Whakapapa Holding will have a license to run the other ski field for the next 10 years.
The concession will also give the company access to use six buildings in Whakapapa village for staff accommodation and a water pipeline easement.
DOC's director general Penny Nelson said the agency would closely monitor the ski field to ensure it was running smoothly.
"I know how important the area is for all New Zealanders, especially the iwi and hapū who whakapapa to the maunga," Nelson said.
Nelson said that giving the rights to use such valuable public conservation land was something she considered carefully, taking into account feedback from iwi and the public.
"We understand it's been a long road to get here and want to thank everyone for their patience."
The previous ski field concession held by Ruapehu Alpine Lifts will be surrendered to allow the new concession to come into effect.
