Ruapehu Alpine Lifts plans to start construction on a gondola later this year, which will replace two chairlifts at Whakapapa Ski Field. It’s not the only gondola proposal in the pipeworks.
The Remarkables
A consent for a 10km gondola that would run from Remarkables Park, near Queenstown Airport, along the Kawarau River and up Rastus Burn Valley to The Remarkables ski field is expected to be lodged later this year.
About 2km of the route is on DOC land and would require a concession. The gondola would carry 2000 passengers an hour and operate year-round.
Franz Josef
Plans for a gondola running from the valley floor to the head of the Franz Josef Glacier are progressing, but first the development must be permitted in the next management plan for Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
The development is supported by Federated Mountain Clubs as it could phase out many helicopter flights.
Ngaruawahia
A Hamilton developer has announced plans for a gondola up the Hakarimata Range in Ngaruawahia. The ‘Rotorua-type concept’, would be located near the popular Hakarimata Summit Track but first requires Hamilton City Council’s approval.
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