The recreational and tourism sector in Ruapehu grew by 8.5% in new business start-ups from 2005 to 2006.

Ruapehu is emerging as a quality tourism destination, with growing support infrastructure. Tourism grew by 5.8% in 2006, compared to the national average of 5.1% from 2005 to 2007. The Government has anchored this status by partnering with Ruapehu, its neighbours, Wanganui and Rangatikei, and the region's Iwi, in a $2 million Major Regional Initiative, Te Kahui Tupua, focussing on tourism development.

Council's support of the tourism industry, through its Regional Tourism Organisation, Visit Ruapehu, matches the confidence demonstrated by multi-million dollar investments into the ski industry by Ruapehu Alpine Lifts