Whakapapa Holdings Ltd has been confirmed as the preferred bidder for the Whakapapa Ski Area. The company is headed by former Whakapapa and Tūroa ski areas’ chief executive Dave Mazey and the partners of New Zealand-based investment firm The South Island Office.
Dave Mazey said the new company has significant relevant experience to take the business forward sustainably, ensuring long-term viability with a combined 70 years of experience in ski area operations and management, plus wide experience in project delivery and finance within the group.
“Whakapapa Holdings was initially drawn to the opportunity from a knowledge of this business’ proud standing in the region and the country, by the strengths within the current team and the passion and commitment of the many wider stakeholders, especially iwi,” he said.
“This is critical to ensure Whakapapa can deliver an even greater range of benefits to the place, to the surrounding communities, and the wider group of New Zealand users and stakeholders.”
The purchase price for the Whakapapa ski field and operations is $1, but Whakapapa Holdings is taking on what the Voluntary Administrators called “significant obligations of RAL”. The Crown will own 25 per cent of the shares in Whakapapa Holdings.
Dave Mazey enjoyed a strong and supportive relationship for some years with many of the iwi whose rohe extends over the slopes of Mt Ruapehu. This would be extended with Whakapapa Holdings Ltd.
He said engagement with tangata whenua was a priority for Whakapapa Holdings during the past few weeks, particularly with Ngāti Tūwharetoa and the hapu of Ngāti Hikairo, Ngā Hapū o Uenuku, Ngāti Rangi and Ngāti Hāua. He acknowledged iwi support for the ongoing operation of and implementation of necessary reinvestment at Whakapapa Ski Area.
The company is also engaging with stakeholders locally and nationally, especially ski clubs and lifetime pass holders with a strong interest in the ski area.
Under the Whakapapa Holdings’ offer, existing lifetime pass holders can reactivate their pass for the Whakapapa ski area. For those who purchased their lifetime pass before 2018, this reactivation will cost $1850 with a split payment offer of $599 paid before winter 2023, and the balance paid in April 2024. For those who purchased during 2019, this price will be $599 paid before winter 2023.
If the Whakapapa Holdings’ bid is successful, there will be a 2023 Whakapapa Season pass available during a two-week-long campaign to start shortly after the June 20 confirmation meeting.
Whakapapa is one of New Zealand's largest ski areas and boasts the country's premier beginner facility, Happy Valley, along with vast intermediate and advanced trails.
