Whakapapa Ski Area: Naturally Volcanic Terrain Shaped by Lava
Whakapapa Ski Area, located in New Zealand’s central North Island. Since 1953, it has introduced generations of Kiwis to the joy of skiing and snowboarding.
Whakapapa Mountain Updates 2025
29 May 2025
Whakapapa 2025 Winter Lift Opening Schedule
27 May 2025
June at Whakapapa Ski Area
June brings a series of early-season experiences designed to get you on snow, in whatever way suits you:
- Sledding & Sightseeing Combo – ride above, walk through, slide down, laugh together. Save up to 30%.
- Sky Waka + High Tea Combo – ride up, sip slow, take in the view. Served daily until Matariki.
- Snow Taster (from Matariki) – Happy Valley beginner area access, rentals, a one-hour group lesson, Sky Waka gondola journey, and sledding experience. Save up to 40%.
26 May 2025
Whakapapa opens Friday 30 May - just ahead of King’s Birthday weekend
It starts with the Opening Weekend celebration from 30 May to 1 June – featuring Sky Waka gondola sightseeing, sledding in Happy Valley, and two snow play zones made for first-touch snow moments.
21 May 2025
Snowmaking is underway at Whakapapa, and the countdown is on
Whakapapa has fired up the snow guns and started laying down the first base for the season. It’s still early days, with some fine-tuning and testing going on, but the system is running well. Even better, new snow guns are expected any day now, and with temperatures dropping, they’ll soon be making snow at full capacity.
The official opening is just 10 days away: Friday 30 May. Will the weather deliver? We’ll be keeping an eye on the forecast.
Whakapapa: The Snow Destination for All Levels
Happy Valley, its premier learner facility, arguably one of the best in the country, is where many take their first steps on the snow. For advanced skiers and riders, Whakapapa offers something extra. Natural bowls, wind lips, and chutes provide endless opportunities to explore and improve skills. Every level of skier can find something to love here.
Whakapapa Ski Area: One of New Zealand’s Largest Ski Areas
Whakapapa spans 550 hectares on the northern side of Mt Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park. It is one of the largest ski areas in New Zealand and is home to Happy Valley, the country’s top beginner facility. Beyond that, expansive trails for intermediate and advanced skiers offer everything from gentle groomers to thrilling chutes, bumps, and drops—all set against the natural volcanic terrain.
The Knoll Ridge Café, food with a view
The Knoll Ridge Café, perched at 2,020 meters at the top of the Sky Waka gondola, is a standout on New Zealand ski fields. The view alone makes it unique.
From the café, you can take in breathtaking views of the alpine landscape, making every meal part of the Whakapapa experience. It’s not just a place to eat – it’s a dining experience surrounded by the beauty of the mountain.
Whakapapa: Home to the Sky Waka Gondola
The Sky Waka Gondola is New Zealand’s top gondola experience, designed to be accessible to everyone, including wheelchair users. It travels 1.8 km up the Whakapapa side of Mt Ruapehu, reaching 2,020 meters above sea level. The ride offers stunning panoramic views of the volcanic landscape and nearby mountains, including Mt Tongariro and Ngauruhoe.
At the top, visitors can enjoy the award-winning Knoll Ridge Chalet, the highest year-round eatery in the country. The gondola operates daily from 10 am to 4 pm, welcoming skiers, snowboarders, and sightseers alike.
Families can use the snow experience zone at the top of the gondola with a sightseeing pass. For more fun, the sledding zone in Happy Valley is perfect for snow lovers of all ages. Children must be at least 8 to ride their sled without supervision.
Mountain Information:
Vertical Decent: 690m
Ski Area: 550 Hectares
Elevation of the Top Lift: 2320m
Lifts: 4 x Chairlifts, 4 x T Bars, 4 x magic carpets
Terrain:
Beginner: 30%
Intermediate: 45%
Advanced: 25%
