Whakapapa

This rugged, scenic resort on the side of an active volcano, has the most frustrating weather. When it's clear, Whakapapa (New Zealand's largest ski area) has perhaps the most challenging skiing in the country. But bad weather often comes storming in, seemingly attracted by Mount Ruapehu and its neighbouring volcanoes, causing such bad visibility that the most challenging skiing is obscured from view. It has a substantial vertical drop of 2,215ft; 30 runs, including both extensive cruising and some excellent off-piste in the Black Magic area. The big attraction for hard-core skiers is the terrain below the magnificent, snow-encrusted Pinnacles. The volcano is having a quiet spell right now; recently it devastated the resort by erupting two years running.