Building consent granted to replace Whakapapa's arson destroyed facilities before next season

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts (RAL), operator of Mt Ruapehu Ski Area, has been granted resource and building consents to rebuild Whakapapa’s Knoll Ridge Cafe, and the groomer shed destroyed by an arsonist in February this year.



Construction will start immediately and continue over summer, with the new facilities ready for winter 2010.



The arson attack, which caused $10m in damage and completely destroyed the cafe and groomer shed, meant RAL was able to rethink the buildings’ design and location.



Dave Mazey, RAL general manager says the previous cafe had been built more than 25 years ago and was located in a difficult position between the Waterfall Express Chairlift and the Valley T-Bar.



“The new cafe will seat 400 people, and be situated 50 metres downhill of the old cafe on the Western side,” says Mr Mazey.



“We’ve made access to the cafe much easier for visitors. Previously skiers and boarders had to make their way up two flights of stairs to get to the main level after getting off the Express,” says Mr Mazey. “Basically, it has been designed for cafe seating on one entry level, and easy skier access from the Express and the Valley T-Bar.”



The modern design and floor to ceiling windows provide expansive views of the Pinnacles, Te Heu Heu Valley and across the ski field, and maximise the sun during the day. Toilets and staff facilities are located on the basement level.



A new snow groomer workshop and storage area is also planned for a site below the Valley T-Bar drive station. The previous site was on potential good piste area so the organisation decided to move the location of this building as well.



The new, purpose-built groomer shed will have a state-of-the-art workshop, and will be able to house up to four snow groomers.



“We’re able to use new technology and engineering in the design and operation of these new buildings, and even though it made the process consent a bit longer because of the new sites, we wanted to take into consideration the long term needs for Whakapapa ski area’s facilities.”



Those who are keen to keep up to date with construction of the new facilities can watch the developments via webcam at www.mtruapehu.com.