OHAKUNE Ohakune is a ‘new’ and modern community, but is built on old money and when you travel the town and district and there is ample evidence of a rich history and wealth. Ohakune is on the Wellington side of the Ruapehu slopes and draws the wealthy Wellingtonians during the winter ski season. During summer Ohakune slumbers but during winter jumps. A classic alpine economy. Ohakune has hosted the Mountain Festival since 2006. The Ohakune Mountain Mardi Gras is also a major event held each year. It is one of the premier ski parties of the season and is a celebration of winter and the ski season. Ohakune comes alive with this street party as musicians, stalls and rides are set up for the flood of people. Ohakune has a number of churches. The Ohakune War Memorial is established on the park gates. The xxx Hotel near the railway line. The place the Wellingtonians would have disembarked generations earlier. A delightful hotel of the era. If you are into skiing, with excellent accommodation offers an extended stay is a must in winter. More so than the Wkakapapa side of the mountain.