Ohakune is about 90km from Whanganui — roughly an hour’s drive through the Whanganui River valley and up into the Ruapehu volcanic plateau. It’s best known as a ski town, but there’s plenty to do outside winter: the Ohakune Old Coach Road is one of New Zealand’s classic half-day bike rides, the Waitonga Falls walk climbs through mountain beech and alpine wetlands, and the character of the town itself — surrounded by carrot farms and volcano views — makes it a rewarding day out year-round.
Practical Information
| Distance from Whanganui | Approximately 90km |
|---|---|
| Drive time | About 1 hour |
| Best season | Year-round — skiing in winter, walks and cycling in summer |
| Waitonga Falls walk | Free; 1 hour 20 min return; trailhead 11km up Ohakune Mountain Road |
| Old Coach Road (cycling) | Free; half-day ride; shuttle options available |
| Turoa Ski Field | Lift pass required; typically open July–October |
About Ohakune
Ohakune sits at the southern end of Tongariro National Park, at the foot of Mount Ruapehu. The town has a settled, year-round community that services both the ski season and the summer walking and cycling crowds. The main street has cafés, gear hire shops and accommodation.
The Ohakune Old Coach Road is widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s best half-day rides — a historic route around Ruapehu’s lower slopes through mossy native and exotic forest, past railway relics and over towering viaducts. It’s accessible to riders of moderate fitness, and shuttle services mean you can ride one way without backtracking.
The Waitonga Falls walk is a 1 hour 20 minute return track from the Ohakune Mountain Road, climbing through mountain beech forest and alpine wetland to a waterfall with views of Ruapehu on clear days. The trailhead is 11km up the mountain road from Ohakune.
Winter Skiing
Turoa Ski Field sits on Ruapehu’s southern slopes, accessed via the Ohakune Mountain Road. The season typically runs July to October. As a day trip from Whanganui — an hour’s drive to Ohakune, then another 17km up the mountain — an early start gives you a full day on the slopes before the drive home.
What Visitors Say
“The Old Coach Road ride is spectacular — mossy forest, old viaducts and almost no one else on the track. If you’re anywhere near Ohakune it’s worth the detour.” — NZ Pocket Guide, things to do in Ohakune
Where to Learn More
Tourism New Zealand — Ohakune: Overview of activities, ski season details and visitor information for the area.
NZ Pocket Guide — Things to Do in Ohakune: Detailed activity guide covering the Old Coach Road, Waitonga Falls, skiing and town attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Ohakune from Whanganui?
About 90km — roughly a one-hour drive.
What can you do in Ohakune in summer?
The Old Coach Road cycling track, Waitonga Falls walk, and walking routes on Ruapehu’s lower slopes are the main draws outside ski season.
Do you need a car to get there?
A car is the most practical option. The Northern Explorer train passes through Ohakune but operates only twice a week and is not timed for day trips from Whanganui.
Is the Waitonga Falls walk suitable for families?
It’s manageable for older children and adults of moderate fitness — 1 hour 20 minutes return with some uphill through alpine terrain.
When does the Turoa ski season typically run?
Usually July to October, depending on snow conditions. Check the Mt Ruapehu website for current opening dates each season.
Can you ski as a day trip from Whanganui?
Yes — it’s about an hour to Ohakune, then a further 17km up the Mountain Road to Turoa. An early start gives you a full day on the slopes.
Browse all day trips from Whanganui. Also from the region: Whanganui River Road drive and Pipiriki and the Bridge to Nowhere.