More than 60 years on the mountain
Arlberg Ski Club has been welcoming skiers and snowboarders to Mt Ruapehu for more than 60 years.
What began as an ambitious idea by a small group of young friends has grown into a thriving ski club built on community, volunteer spirit and a shared love of the mountain. Today, generations of members continue to enjoy affordable on-mountain accommodation, lifelong friendships and a place that many proudly call their second home.
Eunice Orange, Alex Weir, Nellie Schloffel, Dolph Schloffel, Raewyn McDonald, Brian McDonald, Diane Holloway, Laurie Holloway, Wally Loveday
It all started with an idea
In the early 1960s, a group of Rover Scouts regularly travelled to Whakapapa for ski trips. During a return trip from the World Rover Moot in Melbourne, the idea of building their own ski club on the mountain was born.
A committee was formed and work began to find a suitable site, attract members and raise enough money to turn the dream into reality.
Built by volunteers
Like the club today, Arlberg was built through the dedication of volunteers.
Members raised funds, completed the groundwork, built the foundations and worked alongside Lockwood to construct the lodge. Friends, local contractors and neighbouring ski clubs all lent a hand when it was needed.
That same spirit continues today through work parties, committee members and volunteers who help keep the lodge running for future generations.
A club for generations
Many members first visited Arlberg as children and now return with families of their own.
While the lodge has evolved over the years, one thing has remained unchanged — the sense of community that has made Arlberg such a special place since the 1960s.
Explore Our History
Building the Lodge
Discover how a group of volunteers turned an ambitious idea into a ski lodge on Mt Ruapehu in 1965.
Historic Gallery
Take a look back through photographs from Arlberg’s early years, including the construction of the lodge, opening weekend and life on the mountain.
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