Quick Facts
Ohakune for Families — Overview
Ohakune is a small town at the foot of Mt Ruapehu in the centre of the North Island. In winter it's the base for Turoa ski field (one of NZ's largest). Year-round it offers the spectacular Old Coach Road cycle trail, Tongariro National Park walks, and the famous Ohakune Mountain Road that climbs through the alpine zone. The town itself is lively in ski season with good restaurants and a welcoming vibe.
Top Things to Do in Ohakune with Kids
- ✓ Turoa Ski Field (winter) — one of NZ's largest ski areas; good beginner terrain and ski school
- ✓ Old Coach Road cycling trail — 15km through historic tunnels and viaducts, accessible for families. Hire bikes in Ohakune.
- ✓ Ohakune Mountain Road walk — drive/walk through the alpine zone to the Waitonga Falls. Spectacular in all seasons.
- ✓ Tongariro National Park — Tawhai Falls (10 min walk, free), various valley walks suitable for families
- ✓ The Giant Carrot — Ohakune's famous roadside attraction and local symbol
- ✓ Turoa snowplay area — bring a sled and play in the snow without skiing
Rainy Day Options — Ohakune
Where to Stay in Ohakune with Kids
Good range of lodges, motels, and holiday apartments. Book 8–10 weeks ahead for school holiday ski weeks.
Find Ohakune Accommodation on Booking.com →Ohakune Family Budget Guide
Ski-season accommodation is NZ's most competitive outside Queenstown. Off-season (summer) is excellent value.
Use the NZ Family Travel Budget Calculator to plan your full trip spend.
Ohakune Family FAQ
Is Ohakune better than Queenstown for ski families on a budget?
For many NZ families, yes. Turoa is a large, well-developed ski field with a good ski school. Ohakune accommodation is significantly cheaper than Queenstown. The drive from most North Island cities is manageable (3.5–5 hrs). The main downside is that it's a smaller town — fewer après-ski options than Queenstown.
What can you do in Ohakune in summer?
Summer Ohakune is excellent and underrated. The Old Coach Road is one of NZ's best family cycle trails (15km, mostly flat, through tunnels and over viaducts — hire bikes in town). Ohakune Mountain Road walks through stunning alpine terrain. Tongariro National Park walks including Tawhai Falls. Camping at DOC sites in the National Park.
Nearby Destinations to Combine with Ohakune
All NZ City Family Guides →
Family guides for 33 NZ cities and towns — from Whangarei to Invercargill.