21 Jun 2023

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts files for liquidation: so what now?

From Nine To Noon, 9:05 am on 21 June 2023
Crowds of skiers flocked to the Turoa field.

Crowds of skiers flocked to the Turoa field. Photo: RNZ

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts will file for liquidation today, after two options to take over management failed to gain enough support among creditors at a crucial meeting yesterday. The coming days are pivotal as the liquidator tries to sell the assets of Whakapapa and Turoa ski areas to two separate bidders. 

A big question is whether Department of Conservation concessions can be transferred to new owners in enough time for the ski areas to open in a matter of weeks. 

Since RAL went into voluntary administration late last year, owing $45 million, PWC's John Fisk and Richard Nacey have been trying to stitch a deal together to enable the ski areas to continue. John Fisk says yesterday's vote was the worst possible outcome. So with the clock ticking, can a deal still be done?