Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Desert Alpine Club


The Desert Alpine Club is one of two ski clubs operating at Tukino ski field on Mt Ruapehu in New Zealand's North Island. The club was founded in 1962 and is still going strong today, with members of all ages.

From the relaxed to the adventurous, the friends you can meet and the experiences you can have with the Desert Alpine Club can last a lifetime.

Helping you enjoy your alpine experience


The Desert Alpine Club's main purpose is to help members enjoy skiing in a friendly, uncrowded club environment. While skiing is at the heart of our activities, we also promote tramping, ski-touring and climbing.

Amazing views and location


The Desert Alpine Club's lodge is at the Tukino Ski Field Village, at an altitude of 1684m. From its position on a ridge the lodge offers views of Waiouru and a broad vista of the Kaimanawa Ranges, to Lake Taupo and Mt Ngauruhoe. Being on the eastern side of Mt Ruapehu, Tukino ski field enjoys relatively calm conditions, sheltered from the prevailing westerly winds.

Modern facilities


Our modern lodge accommodates up to 30 people. It has its own power generator and uses rain water and melted snow for its water supply. It features:
  • Well equipped kitchen with two large commercial gas stoves 

  • Comfortable dining and living areas 

  • Good showers 

  • Bunk room accommodation, with 4-6 beds per room 

  • Warm, social fireplace

  • Friendly, smoke free environment

Lodge life


The Desert Alpine Club has a welcoming and inclusive environment. Everyone has a role to play in ensuring the lodge runs efficiently day-to-day. With a 'many hands make light work' approach, duties such as meal preparation and cleaning are rostered daily and shared by members and non-members alike.

Accommodation


Non-members are able to stay at the Desert Alpine Lodge throughout the season (subject to availability). The Tukino Mountain Club Association offers special packages that can include accommodation, meals, ski passes. See Ski and Stay Packages for details

Become a member


New members are welcome. Annual membership runs from 1 June to 31 May.

Make an enquiry


If you have any enquiries about the Desert Alpine Club please email us.

Booking Enquiries: bookings@desertalpine.org
General Enquiries: information@desertalpine.org
Membership Enquiries: membership@desertalpine.org

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Page: Desert Alpine Club Mt Ruapehu ski lodges Tongariro National Park - Last Updated: 31st May, 2010 | Site Map