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The potential new owner of the Whakapapa and Tūroa ski areas says relationships with iwi will be critical to the venture.
Whakapapa Holdings Ltd, owned by former Ruapehu Alpine Lifts chief executive Dave Mazey and Christchurch-based investment firm The South Island Office, has been confirmed as the preferred bidder for Whakapapa Ski Area.
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 Ruapehu Alpine Lifts.
The crown will own 25 per cent of the shares.
Mr Mazey says enjoyed a strong and supportive relationship for some years with many of the iwi whose rohe extends over the slopes of Mt Ruapehu
Engagement with tangata whenua had been a priority during the past few weeks – particularly with Ngāti Tūwharetoa and the hapu of Ngāti Hikairo, Ngā Hapū o Uenuku, Ngāti Rangi and Ngāti Hāua.
Under the offer, existing lifetime passholders can pay to reactivate their pass, and there will also be a 2023 season pass available.
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