![Cycling Turoa Ski Area, New Zealand wet, one-lane country road]()
Cycling Turoa Ski Area, New Zealand.
Ride 16 kilometers gaining 1,003 meters at 6.3% average grade.
This is the hardest bike climb in New Zealand. The Turoa Ski Area climb ends at the ski area on Mount Ruapehu, the largest active volcano in New Zealand. This is also the highest point on the North Island.
![Cycling Turoa Ski Area, New Zealand. bike parked against green sign reading "Tongariro National Park, Dual World Heritage Area"]()
Climb report by PJAMM’s Brad Butterfield.
The climb up to the Ski Village of Turra rightfully earns its number one position as the most difficult climb in New Zealand. Jetting out from the town of Ohakune, the lower slopes wind through thick forest. Gradients are relatively easy here. By mile seven you still haven’t climbed much of the nearly 3,400’ promised. The real meat and potatoes of Turoa is all in the last three miles as the climb leaves the trees behind and the surroundings are barron volcanic rock. For those who have made the trip to Mauna Kea, this sight may feel familiar. When I rode Turoa in early May, the temperature was freezing and at the summit the winds were absolutely howling. Plan for cold weather out this way. The road's only destination is the ski resort, so you can expect to have the road and views to yourself out there. A must-do in New Zealand, no doubt.
![Cycling Turoa Ski Area, New Zealand. photo collage shows wet and green surroundings along the climb]()
![Cycling Turoa Ski Area, New Zealand. photo collage shows wet roads and many signs warning of slippery and windy conditions]()
![Cycling Turoa Ski Area, New Zealand. aerial drone view shows hairpin curves on roadway; foggy conditions]()
![Cycling Turoa Ski Area, New Zealand. dry brush above tree line on Mount Ruapehu volcano]()
We rise above the tree line at kilometer 14 as we ascend the Mount Ruapehu volcano.
![Cycling Turoa Ski Area, New Zealand. climb finish at Turoa ski resort]()
Climb finishes at Turoa Ski Resort, just down the volcano from Crater Lake and Mount Ruapehu peak.