2025 UPDATED:
Full list of Shuttles & Buses - Whakapapa and Pure Turoa

Both Whakapapa and Turoa ski areas are accessible to most cars via the Bruce Road and Ohakune Mountain Road. Make sure to check the road report before you travel. During the winter season, occasionally these two roads can become restricted only certain vehicles (4WD, 2WD with chains etc), and an alternative mode of transport such as one of the local shuttle's would be your best option to get you up to the slopes.

Carpark tips:

There is only limited carparking spaces at both Whakapapa and Turoa. During peak season (July School Holidays and July, Aug and Sept Weekends), these carparks may reach capacity quite early in the morning.
From our past experiences, carparks don't tend to reach capacity in June or during the week days (excl July school holidays). October also does not tend to reach capacity
To avoid missing out on a carpark, we recommend aiming to arrive at the top of Whakapapa or Turoa by 9am - 10am (the earlier the better)
If the carparks reach capacity, a one car in - one car out system will be implemented. Alternatively, you can use a shuttle to get to the top of the mountain.

What are the options if I cannot get up the mountain in my car?

There are a number of local shuttle/bus operators who can take you up from a number of locations. We have gathered most options below to help you decide which one is going to work best for you...

DISCLAIMER: Shuttle prices and availability is subject to change

Depature locations:

->From Whakapapa Village to Whakapapa Ski field
->From National Park Township (Recommended) to Whakapapa
->From Turangi to Whakapapa
->From Ohakune to Pure Turoa

From Whakapapa Village

Due to the 3 Hour parking limit that has been put in place for 2025 - we wouldn't recommend booking any shuttles from Whakapapa Village UNLESS you are staying in the accommodation there. Check with your accommodation provider for the best shuttle options.

From National Park Township (Recommended)

We would highly recommend booking your shuttles the night before with any of the operators below.

Choose a pickup time, and arrive at '1 WARD ST, NATIONAL PARK' (PARK N RIDE) 15 mins before your departure.
This is the most convenient and cost-effective solution to getting up the Bruce Rd when there are restrictions.
If you prefer to use chains, we have a range of high-quality chains for you to purchase - starting at $145
Please note, you cannot hire chains in Turangi, National Park or Whakapapa Village.