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Ruapehu - is it the end of an era There has been a lot of talk in the media about Ruapehu and skiing on its slopes this season, or any season, in fact. Many of us grew up skiing those windblown, icy slopes, yet, on reflection, we recount days of perfect uncrowded snow, of sunshine and fun. But this year, 2023, as we go to print, there is still a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the North Island winter ski season. Like looking up from the Desert Road to the mighty Maunga, a shroud of cloud is hanging over the very existence of what we know as Whakapapa and Turoa. Sure, there are groups of those willing to accept the challenge of running the ski fields; there are overseas investors, private buyers, community groups, and even government buyouts, but all that possibility seems to be only fed by rumours and speculation. But the simple truth is there is a lack of clarification, will there be a ski season in 2023 in the North Island, or will this be the year the mountain closes, possibly the more significant question will it ever re-open? What happens to a community that has a strong foundation in snow sport tourism; accommodation, stores, cafes, and restaurants? It would be like telling Whangamata you can no longer swim in the sea, or telling Kaikoura the whales are not to be watched. Sure, the Central Plateau has a huge amount to offer apart from skiing, but there is a lot built around the activity. Regardless of the issues that RAL (Ruapehu Alpine Lifts) faces, whether internal or external, there is no denying the impact of covid, tourism (or lack of it), climate change, DoC and Iwi, each of these factors weigh in on the possibility of its continuance of Ruapehu as a ski destination. Over the last three years of constant worldwide effects and what seems like constant change outside of our control, the concept of no more skiing on Ruapehu now seems a possibility, it’s not likely, but it is possible. We need to enjoy every moment of what we have when we have it. Do not waste a moment, for tomorrow it may be gone or at best, be in jeopardy. For those of us who complained about the difficult car parking at Ruapehu, or the price of pies, or the 20-minute queue times, oh how we now long for those snow beers in the sun, in the car park, after a good day skiing, looking up at those slopes in the afternoon light, knowing we can do it all again tomorrow. But maybe, just maybe, those days are gone. So, make the most out of this winter wherever you are, whatever your activity, enjoy every second, and when the wind is a little strong, or the temperature a little too cold, the queue a little longer or the car park a little full, remember how quickly things can change. Steve Dickinson - Editor Longing for those snow beers your <strong>Adventure</strong> starts with Us 23 Locations Nationwide | www.radcarhire.co.nz | 0800 73 68 23 | adventure@radcarhire.co.nz