Whakapapa - Whakapapa

Mt Ruapehu rises from the Central Plateau, in New Zealand’s North Island, alongside neighbouring peaks of Mt Ngāuruhoe and Mt Tongariro. Listed for its cultural and geographical significance, the peaks form part of the UNESCO Dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park, one of New Zealand’s premier outdoor destinations.

On Mt Ruapehu, we operate two ski areas, Whakapapa and Tūroa, on the north and southwestern slopes respectively. With terrain formed by solidified lava, the ski fields lend themselves perfectly to natural bowls, wind lips and half pipes, with a vast number of cliffs and drop offs. This makes skiing and boarding on Mt Ruapehu, some of the most exhilarating the Southern Hemisphere has to offer.

Home of the Sky Waka gondola, New Zealand’s premier gondola experience, in both summer and winter guests are transported 1.8km up and through the North Island’s most rugged and spectacular landscape, to an altitude of 2020m above sea level. In winter, the Sky Waka gives access to the upper chairs and runs of Whakapapa ski field. In the Summer, it gives way to exceptional dining experiences at the architecturally awarded Knoll Ridge Chalet, including an extensive summer buffet, and marked walks for most abilities.

Just three hours from Hamilton, four from Wellington and five hours from Auckland, getting far away, exploring unique volcanic terrain, on foot or on skis or board, and dining at New Zealand’s highest restaurant, is closer than you think.

We are now progressing into our winter season at Mt Ruapehu and lifts and trails will begin to open depending on snow levels and favourable conditions. You can keep up to date daily, by checking our Report & Cams page, which is updated each morning alongside our live webcams, which are situated in multiple areas across both Whakapapa and Tūroa.