A deal is getting closer on who will take over the two largest Ruapehu skifields.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which ran the Whakapapa and Turoa skifields, went into voluntary administration in October, owing millions of dollars.

Four bidders have been vying to take over the ski fields.

Mayor Weston Kirton said MBIE has picked two operators, but the government says no decision has been made and is not able to comment because of commercial sensitivity.

Weston Kirton spoke to Max Towle.