<p>The glowing domes of Restful Ridge Megaplex by night. In the background a cloud layer and the Pinnacles are illuminated by groomers below as the stars swirl above.</p>
Igloo megaplex

This is not a snow cave and is definitely more than just an igloo! An igloo megaplex is a group of igloos joined together to form a comfortable hotel in the snow. It's the ultimate form of eco-tourism, with the goal being to leave no mark whatsoever on the pristine environment in which it is located.

The megaplex allows intermediate and above skiers/boarders to stay overnight in comfort at 2290m. You will:

  • Be guided from the top lift to the igloo megaplex by one of our backcountry guides
  • Watch the sun set over the mountain
  • <p>Sitting down to dinner at Restful Ridge Megaplex</p>
    Dine in style on a 3-course catered dinner around an ice table
  • Sleep in your very own igloo bedroom complete with extra large, top of the range, down Marmot sleeping bags that can be zipped together to form a double
  • Be provided with all furnishings and safety equipment on arrival at the igloo, including headlamps, bedding, a carpeted dining area and indoor and outdoor seating
  • Be hosted by a backcountry guide who was involved in the actual construction of the megaplex
  • Get fresh tracks down the mountain in the morning (so long as you don't sleep in!).

 

Projected opening 23 August

Hard snow-pack is required to create the igloo megaplex so its opening date cannot be confirmed. It is anticipated that it will be complete by Saturday 23 August so we are currently taking pencil bookings for that date on.

Rates
<p>Creators of the Restful Ridge Megaplex, Mike Adolph, Hans Hjelde and Jen Kobi</p>

Single - $299
Double/Twin - $499
Triple - $649
Rental of whole megaplex (three bedrooms - sleeps up to 9) - $1599

Bookings

To book a night at the igloo megaplex contact Mike Adolph at bcguide@mtruapehu.com or call Whakapapa Customer Services on 07 892 3738.

What you need

  • A skiing/boarding ability level of intermediate or above
  • An average level of fitness
  • Ski or snowboard equipment
  • A backpack to carry your personal gear - you will be required to carry your own personal gear only
  • 2 sets of thermals (one to wear up and another to change into)
  • Warm socks and boots with clean soles to wear in the igloo
  • You'll want to go outside to take in the view and it is very cold out when the sun goes down so bring your warmest jerseys/soft shell
  • Warm and waterproof winter-weight outerwear, beanie and gloves (your normal mid-winter ski/riding gear)
  • Champagne, white wine, white spirits and clear mixers that you wish to consume at the megaplex (keep in mind that you will feel its effects faster at high altitude!). Other beverages such as red wine and beer are not permitted so that we can maintain the pristine white setting
  • A camera to capture all the great memories!

<p>Sunset at Restful Ridge</p>