Podcasts about ruapehu alpine lifts

The future has been secured for Whakapapa skifield after DoC today granted a 10-year concession. Whakapapa Holdings has signed up to run the Whakapapa skifield on the iconic North Island mountain for the next decade. It's taken multiple Government bail-outs and years of talks to reach this point - since Ruapehu Alpine Lifts folded in 2022. Whakapapa Holdings Chief Executive Dave Mazey says an environment with less time pressure will help with developing a long-term future for the skifield. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The future has been secured for Whakapapa skifield after DoC today granted a 10-year concession. Whakapapa Holdings has signed up to run the Whakapapa skifield on the iconic North Island mountain for the next decade. It's taken multiple Government bail-outs and years of talks to reach this point - since Ruapehu Alpine Lifts folded in 2022. Whakapapa Holdings Chief Executive Dave Mazey says an environment with less time pressure will help with developing a long-term future for the skifield. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I am so pleased to see NZ Herald Business Journalist Kate McNamara continue to write about the woes in the Ruapehu District. Why? Because the Ruapehu region has been hit hard with indecision around the two ski fields, the sudden closure of the Chateau two years ago; followed by the loss of over 200 jobs when Winstone's pulp and timber mills shut down late last year. This region has taken a beating through no fault of their own! Yesterday McNamara focused on the issues surrounding the majestic Chateau Tongariro Hotel, which has been sitting in a derelict state for two years. It's a sad sight at the base of Ruapehu. A desolate Chateau, the golf course overgrown, and empty buildings surrounding it. The area feels quietly paused in time, with no sense of if and when it may spring back to life. Whakapapa Holdings Ltd, the company in the process of buying the Whakapapa Ski Field, is keen to discuss the future of the Chateau with government officials. They are interested in taking on the historic chateau, reviving it, providing employment, an increase in tourism, and offering some economic stability for the region. The problem is – no one is really interested in talking to them. As we learnt with the ski fields, this is a complicated region that requires sensitive conversations between government, the Department of Conservation, iwi and other stakeholders. It was a struggle to find a consensus over the ski fields – with some preferring the continuation of a not-for-profit organisation such as previous operators RAL, others' preferring to hand things over to private operators. Along the way, a lot of government money was put into keeping the ski fields afloat, until it got to the point where the fields were too expensive to fail, as was the prospect of closing them down, removing all structures from the mountain and returning it to its natural state. Getting the Chateau up and running again will cost many millions of dollars – but on the right terms, such as a 30 year lease and a peppercorn rent, WHL would be willing to make the investment. They have also done research into the earthquake strengthening which needs to be done and believe it's not as extensive as previously suggested. Look, this might not be the deal which makes everyone happy, but frankly I don't see anyone else queuing up to give it a go. Leaving the chateau empty and decaying for years, possibly decades - at the cost of around $150 - $200,000 a month for maintenance – when a possible solution sits on the table is simply depressing. The government needs to deal with the lease termination agreement and payment to the previous operators, reopen expressions of interest, and have some conversations. Talking is almost always a good place to start, so please take the call. Ruapehu is an incredible part of our country, and one that deserves to be thriving. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The former head of Ruapehu Alpine lifts says he'll be putting in a bid to take over a central North Island ski-field. Dave Mazey spoke to Corin Dann.

The long term fate of Whakapapa ski field may be on the downward slide. In what it's described as a last chance saloon; the government's kicking another seven million dollars into the failing venture to keep it open for the 2024 season. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts which previously operated both the whakapapa and Turoa fields on Mount Ruapehu, has already had more than 20 million dollars in tax payer bailouts. RAL went into liquidation in June last year owing tens of millions of dollars. A deal with a new operator for the Turoa side of the mountain is imminent. But there seems to be no viable options for Whakapaka . Dave Mazey who runs Whakapapa Holdings speaks to Lisa Owen.

A central North Island iwi says Māori have been sidelined yet again in the latest decisions on the future of Mt Ruapehu's Whakapapa Skifield. The Government announced yesterday that it will provide seven million dollars to Ruapehu Alpine Lifts to ensure the ski season goes ahead while a buyer is sought for the business. But a local hapu say the plans amount to another slap in the face for Māori. Aiden Gilbert is the chair of Te Korowai o Wainuiārua - a collective of these hapū.

Tonight on The Panel, Wallace and panellists Alexia Russell and Johny O'Donnell discuss the new A-League football team, and the panellists share their 'I've Been Thinking'. Plus, they discuss Ruapehu Alpine Lifts getting bailed out one last time, and whether police officers get paid enough.

The government is stumping up another 7 million dollars for Ruapehu Alpine Lifts to ensure the ski season can go ahead on Whakapapa. Cabinet has also agreed to provide three million in equity and loan funding to support the sale of the Turoa ski field assets to Pure Turoa Limited. It's the fifth government bail out for the company, which went into voluntary administration in 2022. The government has warned this latest lifeline is the last one. Regional Development Minister Shane Jones speaks to Lisa Owen

Ruapehu accommodation and ski-hire business owner Sam Clarkson says the latest cash handout to Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is a waste of money. The coalition Government is providing 7 million dollars to ensure the ski season at Whakapapa can go ahead while a buyer is sought. But Sam Clarkson says it's good money after bad and it won't work. He spoke to Corin Dann.  

The Government remains adamant there will be no further bailouts for Mount Ruapehu's struggling ski field beyond this year.  Cabinet has agreed to provide $7 million for Ruapehu Alpine Lifts to operate this season.  The company, which has been in receivership since October last year, has been operating on funds from a previous bailout.  Regional Development Minister Shane Jones told Mike Hosking that the latest support will definitely be the last.  He says he's got no mandate to offer more money and is calling this bailout the "last chance saloon".  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Regional Development Minister says there isn't a 'cracker left' after the latest bailout for the Mount Ruapehu skifields. The Government has agreed to send $7 million to the Whakapapa skifield, to ensure the season can go ahead. Another $3 million will support the sale of the Tūroa skifield to Pure Tūroa Limited, while it's in concession talks. This is despite the Prime Minister previously saying there would be no more money for the operators. Minister Shane Jones says this is the last chance. "I've been advised by the advisors, there is a live deal pertaining to Tūroa. On the other side, Whakapapa, that's a bit more complicated." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's First Up pod: we head around the world touching down in the UK, Sweden and Pakistan; we cross to Ohakune to hear what the latest Ruapehu Alpine Lifts bailout means for the ski-town; Labour MP Jan Tinetti joins us to talk all things politics and we're back at the SPCA centre in Mangere to meet some furry friends up for adoption. First Up - Voice of the Nathan!

Another bailout for Ruapehu Alpine Lifts as the Government pours $7 million into the ski field.  The operator has been running on a previous government bailout for over a year.  Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says it's their last chance after the Prime Minister previously said no more money would be poured into the ski field.  Ruapehu District Mayor Weston Kirton told Mike Hosking he welcomes the move.  He understands this is the last bailout and wants the operator to get its ducks in a row.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's confidence the future of Mount Ruapehu's ski operations is positive, despite the asset value of its infrastructure being lower than originally estimated.  The first receivers report regarding Ruapehu Alpine Lifts has been released, showing it plans to sell off its assets at a much lower value.  RAL owes numerous creditors millions.  Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton told Tim Dower that potential buyers know some debts from the past are going to be written off.  In the past, banks and the government have written off money.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is to get $7.35 million from the Government to get its ski field operations through to March. RAL went into voluntary administration last year on the back of a bad ski season, the impact of Covid-19 and hobbled with $45 million in debt. Of the money announced yesterday $4.3 million is for continuing operations of the two ski fields until March while the remaining $3.05 million is set aside to support the preferred bidder of the Turoa ski field to complete that purchase, subject to a concession being granted. The latest injection brings the Government's commitment to bailing out RAL to $20 million. PwC liquidator John Fisk talks to Kathryn about the latest grant.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is getting its fourth multimillion-dollar bailout of the year. The government has agreed to give the company, which is in voluntary administration, an extra $7 million. This is intended to keep it running for five more months - through the election, and the summer. Richard Nacey is a partner at PWC and co-administrator of the company. Nacey spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

All eyes are on Ruapehu to see what happens with the future ownership of its ski fields.  Cabinet has approved seven million dollars to keep Ruapehu Alpine Lifts running.   It includes a $4.3 million loan to the under-liquidation company.   Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton told Mike Hosking that they're looking forward to a resolution to the ownership issue of the company.  He says they just want to get this season out of the way and then they'll wait with interest to see what happens.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Skiers and snowboarders have enjoyed some of the best snow at Ruapehu in years, after a rocky start to the season. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is in liquidation, and only got the go-ahead for the season at the eleventh hour. While the snow has been plentiful this season, that hasn't translated into bumper business at the base of the slopes. Tom Taylor reports.

The future of Mount Ruapehu's skifields remain up in the air. The Tuwharetoa iwi group has abandoned its bid to take over the liquidated Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. Ruapehu District Mayor Weston Kirton says there are reports the iwi now plans to take legal action, if the sale isn't stopped. He says it's a sad situation. "They thought they were going to be bidding- then they come in out of left field and say that they're not going to support a new bidder to actually go ahead with this negotiation."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a big weekend for Ruapehu Alpine Lifts- the company celebrated its 70th anniversary. This celebration was left in limbo after the company was put into administration in October following months of financial uncertainty. A last-minute bailout in June kept Ruapehu Alpine Lifts as temporary operators for the 2023 ski season. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts CEO Jono Dean says this milestone is still worth celebrating, despite working through difficult circumstances. "We can't dismiss the fact that we've been offering skiing and snowboarding on Mt Ruapehu for 70 years, a lot of New Zealanders learned to snowboard and ski here. That's something we're really proud of." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts has been convicted but not fined following the death of an 11 year old girl in a chaotic bus crash five years ago. 11 year old Hannah Francis was killed and several others injured when the brakes on the bus they were travelling on over-heated and failed, crashing down Ohakune Mountain Road in July 2018. A Worksafe investigation found the company had not maintained its fleet or adequately trained its drivers. At the Waitakere District Court this afternoon, RAL which owned and operated the bus was convicted but avoided a fine because the company is now in liquidation. Our reporter Finn Blackwell is at the court and spoke to Lisa Owen. [embed] https://players.brightcove.net/6093072280001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6335395276112

The mother of an 11-year-old killed in a bus crash on Mt Ruapehu has told a court of her anguish at losing her daughter. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts was operating the shuttle bus that overturned after its brakes failed halfway down the steep Turoa ski field road. The company pleaded guilty earlier this year to health and safety charges and appeared in the Waitakere District court yesterday for sentencing. Rayssa Almeida reports.

Businesses in the ski towns of Ohakune and National Park say recent snowfalls have been a lifesaver - they've gone from worrying about going under, to being busier than last year, and they're stoked about it. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts which ran the Whakapapa and Turoa ski areas, went into liquidation in June, owing tens of millions of dollars, after a two bids to buy the ski areas failed. The government stepped in just before the July school holidays, with a five-million-dollar loan to the liquidators to allow the season to go ahead, but negotiations about who will ultimately own the two ski areas continue. Central North Island iwi Ngati Tuwharetoa has reportedly confirmed it is also now in the bidding to buy RAL and is conducting due diligence. A decision on the ski fields' long-term future could be months away. Meanwhile the snow's been falling and visitors have been pouring in. Susie speaks with Ruapehu District Mayor Weston Kirton, and James Bell, a bootfitter with TCB ski rentals in Ohakune.

'An absolute dumping' That's how Ruapehu staff are describing the state of the mountain after a big snowfall at the mountain over the past two days. The skifields reopened over the weekend after narrowly avoiding closure. The cold start to the week has been good news for Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. Chief executive Jono Dean spoke to Corin Dann.

Dust off your thermal undies and sharpen your edges, we're back; that's the message from the operators of the beleagured Mt Ruapehu ski fields. Despite financial uncertainity, a $5 million government bail-out means the mountain is able to open tomorrow for the winter season. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts that runs the Whakapapa and Turoa Ski field went into liquidation last week after creditors failed to agree on who should take over the operation. Decision on its long term future could be months away. In the meantime, Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is reopening the fields tomorrow. Chief executive Jono Dean spoke to Lisa Owen [embed] https://players.brightcove.net/6093072280001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6330347915112

Ohakune businesses and locals are breathing a sigh of relief that this year's Mt Ruapehu ski season has been saved.  A $5 million guarantee from the government allows the Tūroa and Whakapapa ski fields to open from Saturday despite Ruapehu Alpine Lifts being in liquidation. And for now, life pass holders can still ski. Jimmy Ellingham has the story.

A government bail-out will keep the skifields open this winter, but businesses have been living with a question mark over Ruapehu's long-term future for months.

The ski season on Mount Ruapehu has been saved, with the government providing up to $5 million to the liquidators of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. The company was put into liquidation last week, after a vote on who would take over the ski fields ended in a stalemate. The money will buy time for the liquidators to decide on the purchaser of the land and its assets. Last year the government said it would provide no further financial support. But Acting Prime Minister Carmel Sepuloni says the government is stepping in now because nobody else will. A significant factor behind the struggles of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts was consecutive seasons of poor weather. Carmel Sepuloni says there will be questions around the use of the mountain in the future. The Crown has also received a further expression of interest from Te Ariki Tā Tumu Te He-u he-u on behalf of Tūwharetoa to take over the ski operations on the mountain. This is in addition to the expressions of interest received from Whakapapa Holdings and Pure Tūroa. [embed] https://players.brightcove.net/6093072280001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6330103861112

The government's stumping up $5 million to make sure the Ruapheu ski season goes ahead. Last week operator Ruapehu Alpine Lifts was forced into liquidation after its creditors rejected a government backed plan that would have seen two separate operators running one side of the mountain each, for a purchase price of one dollar. The government says the mountain is worth $100 million per year to the region's economy and it's always been committed to ensuring the ski season goes ahead. It's also revealed a third group is now vying to run the mountain ski operation. PwC liquidator John Fisk spoke to Lisa Owen. [embed] https://players.brightcove.net/6093072280001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6330106120112

Ruapehu will keep it's doors open for skiers this winter, with the government agreeing to front $5 million to ensure the ski season can go ahead, despite the ownership of the fields still being undecided. The funding will be paid to the liquidators of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, after creditors failed to agree on a new operator. It comes just days out from the expected start of the ski season. Leigh Berry, co-owner of Ruapehu Mountain Motel and Lodge spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

A lifeline comes as the Government offers a $5 million helping hand towards the liquidators of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. The loan is being touted as the silver bullet to ensure the ski season can go ahead. Meanwhile, discussions continue behind closed doors. Bids are on the table for an iwi group to purchase the skifields against a separate bid to split operations between Pure Turoa and Whakapapa Holdings. Liquidator John Fisk told Mike Hosking the loan allows consultation with iwi to continue before a sale. He says this also gives them confidence to go into the winter season, meaning they don't have to rush. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just a week after Ruapehu Alpine Lifts went into liquidation the Government has stepped in with financial support just in time for the ski season.

The Regional Development Minister is hitting out at MBIE over its dealings with iwi on the Mount Ruapehu saga. The government's providing a loan of up to $5 million to the liquidators of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, to ensure a ski season can go ahead this year. Meanwhile, iwi have joined the table to bid to take over skifield operations against a joint bid from two companies, that was previously backed by the Government. Regional Development Minister Kiri Allan says tangata whenua must agree to the terms of transfer. "I disagreed with MBIE's approach and therefore instructed Te Arawhiti and the Department of Conservation to get into the room to make sure that they could manage that concession." LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government's offering up $5 million to keep Ruapehu running this ski season. The money will go the liquidators of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts to keep things going over the winter. Carmel Sepuloni admits it's not an ideal situation, so they're helping provide job security in the the meantime. ZB's senior political correspondent Barry Soper says the official advice given to ministers in 2022 was to not provide more money to Ruapehu. "The official advice then was not to cough up money, they'd already put, at that stage, $15 million into it." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hopes a multi-million dollar government loan to Ruapehu Alpine Lifts liquidators gets the skifields off thin ice. The Government is chipping in up to $5 million towards the liquidators, as a new bid has entered the table A group on behalf of iwi is now proposing to take over operations of the skifields - the bid for operations to be split between two other companies is still on the table. Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton says it's a complex situation, but the financial backing helps jobs. He's sure businesses and communities are clapping with joy, and he's hoping for a good snow season. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hopes a multi-million dollar government loan to Ruapehu Alpine Lifts liquidators gets the skifields off thin ice. The Government is chipping in up to $5 million towards the liquidators, as a new bid has entered the table A group on behalf of iwi is now proposing to take over operations of the skifields - the bid for operations to be split between two other companies is still on the table. Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton says it's a complex situation, but the financial backing helps jobs. He's sure businesses and communities are clapping with joy, and he's hoping for a good snow season. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A lifeline comes as the Government offers a $5 million helping hand towards the liquidators of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. The loan is being touted as the silver bullet to ensure the ski season can go ahead. Meanwhile, discussions continue behind closed doors. Bids are on the table for an iwi group to purchase the skifields against a separate bid to split operations between Pure Turoa and Whakapapa Holdings. Liquidator John Fisk told Mike Hosking the loan allows consultation with iwi to continue before a sale. He says this also gives them confidence to go into the winter season, meaning they don't have to rush. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Optimism has turned to despair and frustration for businesses in the shadow of Mt Ruapehu, after creditors of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts yesterday failed to endorse a new ownership proposal. Instead RAL today went into liquidation and the future of the Tūroa and Whakapapa ski fields remains uncertain. Our reporter Jimmy Ellingham filed this report from Ohakune. [embed] https://players.brightcove.net/6093072280001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6329821638112

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is officially in liquidation, after creditors wouldn't agree to let other ski operators take over operations on the mountain. The company appeared at the High Court in Auckland a short time ago. Whakapapa Holdings Chief Executive Dave Mazey is still hopeful his equity partners can stitch up a deal post-liquidation. He spoke with Simon Barnett and James Daniels. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is officially in liquidation, after creditors wouldn't agree to let other ski operators take over operations on the mountain. The company appeared at the High Court in Auckland a short time ago. Whakapapa Holdings Chief Executive Dave Mazey is still hopeful his equity partners can stitch up a deal post-liquidation. He spoke with Simon Barnett and James Daniels. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts will file for liquidation today, after two options to take over management failed to gain enough support among creditors at a crucial meeting yesterday. The coming days are pivotal as the liquidator tries to sell the assets of Whakapapa and Turoa ski areas to two separate bidders. A big question is whether Department of Conservation concessions can be transferred to new owners in enough time for the ski areas to open in a matter of weeks. Since RAL went into voluntary administration late last year, owing $45 million, PWC's John Fisk and Richard Nacey have been trying to stitch a deal together to enable the ski areas to continue. John Fisk says yesterday's vote was the worst possible outcome. So with the clock ticking, can a deal still be done?

The worst case scenario has happened, according to administrators who'd been trying to revive the Ruapehu Ski Fields. The bail out deals melted away this afternoon when creditors rejected all proposals on the table. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts which ran both the Whakapapa and Turoa fields went into voluntary administration in October owing millions of dollars. A government backed plan would have seen two separate operators running one side of the mountain each ..for the purchase price of a dollar a side, with the government a 25% stakeholder in each venture and providing loans to both operators. The other option was raising capital to keep it afloat through crowd funding and life passholders . But neither got enough votes from people who are owed money by the existing company. This report from Jimmy Ellingham in Ohakune and Tom Taylor in Auckland. [embed] https://players.brightcove.net/6093072280001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6329764083112

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts which ran both the Whakapapa and Turoa fields went into voluntary administration in October owing millions of dollars. A government backed plan would have seen two separate operators running one side of the mountain each, for the purchase price of a dollar a side, with the government a 25% stakeholder in each venture and providing loans to both operators. The other option was raising capital to keep it afloat through crowd funding and life passholders . But neither got enough votes from people who are owed money by the existing company. John Fisk from PWC was one of the voluntary administrators who's been working with the stricken company since October. [embed] https://players.brightcove.net/6093072280001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6329765288112

What now for the Ruapehu Alpine Lifts? During a meeting yesterday, bids to take over management of the business failed with creditors voting down proposals to either keep the current company structure, or hand it over to two private companies. The upshot is that Ruapehu Alpine Lifts returns to the directors' control, which would lead them to seek liquidation, just weeks out from ski season. The company went into voluntary administration last year, in debt by 45 million dollars. Ruapehu district mayor Weston Kirton spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

A last minute saving-grace has come as the Ruapehu skifields are on thin ice. A government and council-backed option for Whakapapa Holdings and Pure Turoa to take ownership was not voted through yesterday. Whakapapa Holdings Chief Executive Dave Mazley told Mike Hosking he expects Ruapehu Alpine Lifts to be liquidated after court today. Pure Turoa says as liquidators, PWC will go forward with purchasing agreements. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is heading towards liquidation weeks out from the 2023 ski season. Creditors didn't come to an agreement on the company's future today, which went into voluntary administration last year. A hearing is set down for tomorrow at the High Court in Auckland. Ruapehu Stakeholders Association chairman Jason Platt says this scenario was exactly what the organisation expected. "This only delays it by a day, so it's more of a technicality. Tomorrow, it will be liquidated regardless and those plans will probably be enacted. I guess the biggest issue we have is the plans." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A last minute saving-grace has come as the Ruapehu skifields are on thin ice. A government and council-backed option for Whakapapa Holdings and Pure Turoa to take ownership was not voted through yesterday. Whakapapa Holdings Chief Executive Dave Mazley told Mike Hosking he expects Ruapehu Alpine Lifts to be liquidated after court today. Pure Turoa says as liquidators, PWC will go forward with purchasing agreements. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Uncertainty is plaguing Ruapehu. A bid to liquidate Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is being heard in the High Court in Auckland this morning, dubbed a 'worst case scenario' by some. The Government and local council's preferred option, to allow two companies to take over skifield ownership, did not make it over the line in meetings yesterday. Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton told Kate Hawkesby everyone is waiting with bated breath to see if companies step in and make a purchase. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is heading towards liquidation weeks out from the 2023 ski season. Creditors didn't come to an agreement on the company's future today, which went into voluntary administration last year. A hearing is set down for tomorrow at the High Court in Auckland. Ruapehu Stakeholders Association chairman Jason Platt says this scenario was exactly what the organisation expected. "This only delays it by a day, so it's more of a technicality. Tomorrow, it will be liquidated regardless and those plans will probably be enacted. I guess the biggest issue we have is the plans." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Uncertainty is plaguing Ruapehu. A bid to liquidate Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is being heard in the High Court in Auckland this morning, dubbed a 'worst case scenario' by some. The Government and local council's preferred option, to allow two companies to take over skifield ownership, did not make it over the line in meetings yesterday. Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton told Kate Hawkesby everyone is waiting with bated breath to see if companies step in and make a purchase. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An end seems to be in sight to the Ruapehu Alpine Lifts saga. The skifield is in voluntary administration with the Government backing two bidders to take the reins. It's understood it would be split into two skifields; one business running each. Creditors vote next week on whether to liquidate the company, and sell assets to bidders. Mayor Weston Kirton told Mike Hosking there's more to be done, but he's comfortable with the proposal. He says it's not perfect but the community are at odds with the situation, and are waiting for a resolution. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Regional Development Minister says Mount Ruapehu is highly likely to open for skiing this year. The Government has decided to split the running of the mountain's ski fields and is supporting two bidders to take over. Whakapapa Holdings and Pure Tūroa Limited are now expected to purchase the assets and business from Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. Minister Kiri Allan says only two more barriers are left to be crossed. "75 percent of those that are owed a debt have to agree to the deal. And then the second- 50 percent of those shareholders that vote have to agree. Those shareholders are the life pass holders." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An end seems to be in sight to the Ruapehu Alpine Lifts saga. The skifield is in voluntary administration with the Government backing two bidders to take the reins. It's understood it would be split into two skifields; one business running each. Creditors vote next week on whether to liquidate the company, and sell assets to bidders. Mayor Weston Kirton told Mike Hosking there's more to be done, but he's comfortable with the proposal. He says it's not perfect but the community are at odds with the situation, and are waiting for a resolution. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A group bidding for one of the Ruapehu ski-fields is furious they have not been picked as a favourite by MBIE. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which ran the Whakapapa and Tūroa ski fields, went into voluntary administration in October, owing millions of dollars. Four bidders have been vying for the contracts to take control of the ski fields. The government says four bids are still being considered. But RNZ understands two operators are favoured by MBIE, Pure Turoa Ltd, and a private equity firm linked to businessmen Tom Elworthy and Dave Mazey. [picture id="4LVLEB6_image_crop_139190" crop="16x10" layout="full"] Ruapehu Ski Areas Stakeholders Association is one of the bidders left out in the cold and committee member Sam Clarkson spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

By RNZ The Ruapehu mayor says a deal is close to being settled on who will be taking over Ruapehu ski fields. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which ran the Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields, went into voluntary administration in October, owing millions of dollars. Four bidders had been vying for the contracts to take over and Mayor Weston Kirton said government officials had picked the two they favoured to run each ski field separately. He understood they were Pure Turoa and a company linked to businessmen Dave Mazey and Tom Elworthy to manage Whakapapa. Kirton said the community were excited about the developments, but they did not want to celebrate too soon with negotiations still in progress. “There's a few unknowns to be considered, but it certainly gives confidence that we're going to see a ski operation this year in some shape or form.  “It's been delayed, and it's been a worry some people have gone elsewhere for skiing. The main thing is from our perspective is that we see a ski season, it's such a key part of our economy,” Kirton said. In a statement, the Government would not confirm who it had chosen and said negotiations were continuing. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has been approached for comment. - RNZSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

By RNZ The Ruapehu mayor says a deal is close to being settled on who will be taking over Ruapehu ski fields. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which ran the Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields, went into voluntary administration in October, owing millions of dollars. Four bidders had been vying for the contracts to take over and Mayor Weston Kirton said government officials had picked the two they favoured to run each ski field separately. He understood they were Pure Turoa and a company linked to businessmen Dave Mazey and Tom Elworthy to manage Whakapapa. Kirton said the community were excited about the developments, but they did not want to celebrate too soon with negotiations still in progress. “There's a few unknowns to be considered, but it certainly gives confidence that we're going to see a ski operation this year in some shape or form.  “It's been delayed, and it's been a worry some people have gone elsewhere for skiing. The main thing is from our perspective is that we see a ski season, it's such a key part of our economy,” Kirton said. In a statement, the Government would not confirm who it had chosen and said negotiations were continuing. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has been approached for comment. - RNZSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ski season starts in July, but Ruapehu Alpine Lifts' future remains on thin ice. The company has four potential Kiwi buyers after going into voluntary administration, driven by pandemic disruptions and poor snow. Administrator John Fisk has outlined the other alternatives. "Possibly going into liquidation, announcing closing or going into some sort of hibernation. But all of those have costs to them." He says it's optimistic to believe they could open for this year's ski season, but says a number of businesses rely on it. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ski season starts in July, but Ruapehu Alpine Lifts' future remains on thin ice. The company has four potential Kiwi buyers after going into voluntary administration, driven by pandemic disruptions and poor snow. Administrator John Fisk has outlined the other alternatives. "Possibly going into liquidation, announcing closing or going into some sort of hibernation. But all of those have costs to them." He says it's optimistic to believe they could open for this year's ski season, but says a number of businesses rely on it. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Four final bids have been lodged to buy Ruapehu ski fields, but time is running short for one to be confirmed in time to open this winter season. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts which ran the Whakapapa and Turoa skifields, went into voluntary administration last last year, owing tens of millions of dollars. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is reviewing the four bids which were finalised last week.But PWC Partner and Voluntary Administrator John Fisk says the MBIE process has taken longer than expected, and a watershed meeting with creditors, set for the 9th of May will need to be delayed. He says a planned season pass sale had to be deferrred because of the uncertainty, and he believes it will be very difficult to get a new operator in place for this ski season. John Fisk says it would be possible for PWC to operate the ski fields this winter, but that would require underwriting by the government.

A group of life-time pass-holders is hoping to crowd-fund millions of dollars to keep Mt Ruapehu's two skifields - Whakapapa and Turoa - in public hands. Its current operator, Ruapehu Alpine Lifts went into voluntary administration in October following a poor season and covid distruption. Our reporter Robin Martin has more.

At least two potential bidders have emerged for Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which collapsed last October, going into voluntary administration. Administrators have been working since October trying to find a long term solution for the business, which runs both Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields. RAL has debts of $35 million, and the government has put in $10 million to keep the business running while a solution is sought. Now at least two separate bids for all or part of the business are in the offing. Kathryn speaks with John Sandford who is leading a new entity - Turoa Alpine Limited - which lodged a bid for Turoa's assets last week. Also with Life Pass Holders' representative and local Sam Clarkson.

Ruapehu skiers will be able take to the slopes this winter - but many questions remain about how Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields will operate. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts remains in voluntary administration but administrator John Fisk has announced it will "soon" sell winter season passes for 2023. No precise date or cost has been outlined, nor has the status of life pass holders been clarified. RAL had received $10 million from the government, but administrator John Fisk says more is needed. A group of life pass holders and the Save Mt Ruapehu Skifields Group are soon to form an incorporated society, as part of a proposal for the ski fields to be community owned and not for profit. Kathryn speaks with PWC partner and RAL co-administrator Richard Nacey and Robert Krebs, from the Life Pass Holders Association, and member of the creditors committee.

The company that operates Mt Ruapehu's ski slopes has announced it will sell season passes for 2023 - despite being in voluntary administration. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts made the call during a period of uncertainty for the region, including the abrupt closure of Chateau Tongariro last month. Our reporter Jimmy Ellingham has more.

Tourism in Ruapehu has taken another substantial blow with news the Chateau Tongariro will close its doors on Sunday. KAH New Zealand, which manages the hotel at Whakapapa, says its due diligence when working through an extension of its lease found the hotel no longer met current standards for seismic safety. The cost of refurbishments, paired with other factors such as Ruapehu Alpine Lifts going into administration, saw KAH pull the pin on operating the hotel. The Department of Conservation says it's yet to find out how much fixing the category one heritage building might cost. Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton says it's a huge blow to the region, and there is now huge uncertainty as to the future of tourism at Whakapapa. Kirton spoke to Corin Dann.  

The government is giving a further $6 million to the cash-strapped Ruapehu Alpine Lifts to help the company avoid collapse. The Minister for Economic and Regional Development Stuart Nash says the money will ensure skiiers get to enjoy the mountain next season. Ruapehu District mayor Weston Kirton spoke to Corin Dann.  

The Tourism Minister has hopes of a long-term future for Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. The Government has expanded its loan to the company by another $6 million, to give it more time to explore options, and open the ski fields next winter. The company went into voluntary administration in October, with Covid exacerbating long-standing issues including bad snow years. Stuart Nash told Mike Hosking people are keen to see the business continue to run. He says after speaking to a number of key stakeholders yesterday, there's a willingness among them to make it work. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tourism Minister has hopes of a long-term future for Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. The Government has expanded its loan to the company by another $6 million, to give it more time to explore options, and open the ski fields next winter. The company went into voluntary administration in October, with Covid exacerbating long-standing issues including bad snow years. Stuart Nash told Mike Hosking people are keen to see the business continue to run. He says after speaking to a number of key stakeholders yesterday, there's a willingness among them to make it work. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has a challenge in front of it over what to do about the plight of the Ruapehu ski fields. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is in voluntary administration, carrying debt of $45 million.  The Government isn't throwing anymore lifelines, leaving the business that runs the Turoa and Whakapapa ski fields staring down the barrel of liquidation. The company's demise would cost taxpayers up to $100 million because all infrastructure would have to be removed from the mountain. Ruapehu district mayor Weston Kirton told Mike Hosking the Government doesn't appear to realise these costly implications. He's asking the Government to consider whether they would rather spend $20 million now to save the ski field or another $80 million to demolish the infrastructure. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has a challenge in front of it over what to do about the plight of the Ruapehu ski fields. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is in voluntary administration, carrying debt of $45 million.  The Government isn't throwing anymore lifelines, leaving the business that runs the Turoa and Whakapapa ski fields staring down the barrel of liquidation. The company's demise would cost taxpayers up to $100 million because all infrastructure would have to be removed from the mountain. Ruapehu district mayor Weston Kirton told Mike Hosking the Government doesn't appear to realise these costly implications. He's asking the Government to consider whether they would rather spend $20 million now to save the ski field or another $80 million to demolish the infrastructure. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Calls to give Mount Ruapehu a break. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts recently went into receivership, after years of financial difficulties. Life Pass Holders have been asked if they'd support a new entity, paying two and a half thousand dollars to continue skiing on Mt Ruapehu. Ongoing maintenance would also be funded by an up-to-250 dollar levy, for two or three years. Uenuku Charitable Trust chair Aiden Gilbert says  he supports giving the maunga space for a while. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will Ruapehu Alpine Lifts survive after being placed into voluntary administration, or is this the death knell for North Island skiing?

The embattled skifield operator Ruapehu Alpine Lifts has received a $4 million rescue package - partly with help from the government - as it tries to make it to the next ski season. The voluntary administrators who took over the company last month, have ruled that its existing management simply can't stay on. Katie Todd has the story.

It's nearly three weeks since administrators were called in to oversee Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, so what's happening now? RAL which runs the Whakapapa and Turoa skifields on the mountain, put itself into voluntary administration owing tens of millions of dollars. It blames the pandemic, coupled with this winter's terrible ski season. The government has knocked back any suggestion of a further bailout -beyond the $15m in loans made to RAL since 2018. John Fisk of PWC is one of two administrators tasked with trying to salvage the business.

A horror season and three years of Covid has left one of our biggest ski field operators on thin ice, and taxpayers potentially $15 million out of pocket. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which operates Whakapapa and Tūroa skifields and employs 196 staff went into voluntary administration yesterday. It already had two government loans totalling $15 million but has been turned down for another taxpayer funded bail out. Paul Anderson is chief executive of NZ Ski, which runs Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt fields. He talks to Lisa Owen.

A very deep financial hole has left locals and businesses around Ruapehu in limbo. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts has announced it's appointed administrators PWC, to work its way out up to $50 million of debt. It's not just those who work on the mountain, but the people whose livelihoods depend on visitors coming to enjoy the slopes every winter. And as Katie Todd reports from Ohakune, they are calling on the government to help save a valuable asset.

Alpine trampers are among those who are devastated by the potential closure of Ruapehu Apline Lifts. The skifield owner has appointed voluntary administrators following years of financial pressure and bad weather this season. The company is in $40 million of debt to the government, which has denied a request for more cash. Tararua Tramping Club vice president Amie Claridge spoke to Guyon Espiner.

South Island skifield operators are increasingly looking to rely on snow-making technology to keep runs open as the climate changes and snowfall is less reliable. Further north, Ruapehu Alpine Lifts which operates the Whakapapa and Turoa skifields has gone into voluntary administration after three seasons of poor snow and Covid-19 restrictions. Tess Brunton has more.

Today on the Panel Wallace and panellists Heather Roy and David Cormack discuss the voluntary administration of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, the future of skiing in the North Island and the impact on businesses on the central plateau if the skifields shut for good. They also discuss a new report which has Aotearoa ranked 136th in the world out of 161 countries when it comes to fair wealth distribution.

New Zealand Herald Wellington business editor Jenée Tibshraeny chats with Nick Mills about staff turnover at the Reserve Bank hitting a record high, why term deposit rates are unlikely to rise as much as mortgage rates and Ruapehu Alpine Lifts going into voluntary administration. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A group of Ruapehu shareholders and life pass holders says appalling governance by the board of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is to blame for the company going into voluntary administration. Kathryn speaks to Sam Clarkson spokesperson for the Ruapehu shareholders and Life Pass Holders group, and owner of the Skotel at the foot of Whakapapa ski field also John Fisk - of PwC, one of two appointed as the voluntary administrators and Leigh Berry, who runs Ruapehu Mountain Lodge.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts has been put into voluntary administration. The company operates the Whakapapa and Tūroa skifields in the central North Island. Our reporter Katie Todd has the details.  

The future of the Whakapapa and Turoa skifields is in question, after it's operator Ruapehu Alpine Lifts yesterday announced it has appointed voluntary administrators after facing significant financial problems. The business said it had been placed under significant cash flow pressure with the impact of Covid-19 restrictions, paired with poor weather this season. Ruapehu mayor Weston Kirton.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts has announced it has appointed voluntary administrators after facing significant financial problems. In a statement it said the business had been placed under significant cash flow pressure after three difficult years, with the impact of Covid-19 restrictions, paired with poor weather this season. John Fisk and Richard Nacey of PwC have been appointed as the voluntary administrators. Fisk spoke to Guyon Espiner.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which operates the Whakapapa and Tūroa ski fields in the central North Island has gone into voluntary administration. The cause? Three years of disastrous ski seasons due to the lack of snow and the Covid-19 pandemic. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The axing of a third of the staff at Mt Ruapehu's skifields is sending reverberations across the region. About 135 people have lost their jobs, as one of the warmest, wettest winters on record leaves the slopes at Whakapapa and Turoa almost bare of snow. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which runs the two skifields, says Turoa is now closed and will require a significant snow dump to reopen. Ruapehu District Deputy Mayor Karen Ngatai spoke to Susie Ferguson.

Ruapehu's ski fields are under pressure - but unusually, this time it's not from natural forces. 

Ski industry leaders are pleading with the Government to cut red tape and allow skilled overseas workers in for the winter, saying the economic revival of regional areas is at stake. Ski operators say they're in urgent need of highly-skilled groomer operators and don't understand why Immigration New Zealand is declining those visa applications. Meanwhile other specialised workers -- ski instructors -- are having visas approved, but are facing huge wait times to have them processed. They say the current restrictions are hampering the recovery of the country's ski industry and the winter tourism market. Kathryn speaks with Paul Anderson, the chief executive of NZSki, which manages three ski fields in the South Island; the Remarkables and Coronet Peak, and Mt Hutt, and Jono Dean, the chief executive of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which runs Whakapapa and TÅ«roa skifields in the North Island.

Ski industry leaders are pleading with the Government to cut red tape and allow skilled overseas workers in for the winter, saying the economic revival of regional areas is at stake. Ski operators say they're in urgent need of highly-skilled groomer operators and don't understand why Immigration New Zealand is declining those visa applications. Meanwhile other specialised workers -- ski instructors -- are having visas approved, but are facing huge wait times to have them processed. They say the current restrictions are hampering the recovery of the country's ski industry and the winter tourism market. Kathryn speaks with Paul Anderson, the chief executive of NZSki, which manages three ski fields in the South Island; the Remarkables and Coronet Peak, and Mt Hutt, and Jono Dean, the chief executive of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which runs Whakapapa and TÅ«roa skifields in the North Island.