Perched on the northern slopes of Mt Ruapehu, Whakapapa is New Zealand's largest ski area and one of the most unique, sitting on an active volcano within Tongariro National Park.
With dramatic alpine views, a wide variety of terrain, and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, it’s no wonder Whakapapa is a favourite for both first-timers and returning snow lovers.
Whether you're learning to ski, enjoying the epic sightseeing via Sky Waka, or carving your way across upper mountain trails, Whakapapa delivers something for everyone.
Operating Hours:
Weather-dependent, Whakapapa lifts generally operate 9am–4pm, with occasional extended hours. Other facilities such as cafes will open around 8am for an early breakfast. The season generally runs from late June/early July until Labour Weekend in October.
Travel Times:
Terrain Overview:
With over 550 hectares of terrain, Whakapapa is spread out and super accessible. You’ve got the dedicated beginner’s zone (Happy Valley), cruisy groomers, natural rollers, and volcanic gullies as you move up the mountain for some great shredding and progression.
Weather Conditions:
The weather at Mt Ruapehu can change very quickly and is known for its strong winds that whip over the mountain. Always be prepared with the right gear so you're ready for any situation. Even on a hot spring day, conditions can change relatively quickly. Before you go, it’s a good idea to check out the 'Mt Ruapehu Essentials' checklist to make sure you have everything packed, and double-check the MetService website for weather conditions.
Best Times to Visit:
How Busy Does It Get?
Weekends and school holidays are the busiest, especially bluebird days. Midweek and spring skiing tend to be quieter and more chill.
The Whakapapa Access Road:
Sometimes mountain access roads can be quite sketchy, with rough gravel roads, however the access road to Whakapapa – the Bruce Road – is completely sealed and safe. The main thing to keep in mind is that this access road during the season can be restricted to only certain vehicles due to weather conditions.
Road Restriction Scenarios:
As mentioned, the Bruce Road access road can sometimes be put under certain restrictions. Here they are, and what to do:
Predicting Restrictions:
Typically restrictions are most prevalent July and August as these are the coldest periods of the season. Snowfall most of the time will require 2WD cars to use chains or snow socks
Frequency of restrictions:
Some seasons, we see very little restrictions, and some they are weekly so it’s just the luck of the dice.
How to Plan for Road Restrictions:
Chains and Snow Socks
For those who don't know, 'snow chains' and 'snow socks', are both items that attach to your tires to help grip on snow and ice.
If there is a chain restriction for your vehicle, then you’ll need to track down either snow chains or snow socks.
Snow Chains
✅ Best grip on ice and snow
✅ More durable and suited for repeated use
❌ Heavier, harder to fit (especially the first time)
❌ Increased risk of damaging vehicle, especially if you speed or fit incorrectly
❌ Typically cheaper
Snow Socks
✅ Much easier to fit — great if you’re not confident with chains
✅ Lightweight and compact to store
❌ Not as grippy in heavy snow
❌ Can wear out faster, especially on grit or exposed tarmac
❌ Typically more expensive
Our Take?
Chains are definitely a more tried and true solution, however for occasional use for Ruapehu, snow socks can be very convenient and will perform just as well.
Can You Rent Snow Chains or Snow Socks?
From our research at the start of the 2025 season — we do not know of any company that rents these items.
Shuttle/Bus Options
There are many shuttle companies that operate throughout the winter season — allowing you to easily access Whakapapa when road restrictions are in place.
Most shuttles will pick up and drop off from the National Park Village 'Park and Ride' depot. See it on Google Maps.
We have compiled a list of all shuttle operators for you to choose from. We highly recommend booking a day in advance. If the weather is looking marginal for Saturdays, then we recommend you book your shuttle the Friday night before, or first thing Saturday morning when we know what the road restrictions are for that day.
There is no free shuttle service being operated by the mountain company (Whakapapa) in 2025.
Carparks and Drop Off Zone
Whakapapa contains 10 large ‘day parks’ which span below the base area with 1 being the closest to the base.
In previous years, carparking spaces on Whakapapa had to be booked online. For 2025 however, there is no need to book a carparking space prior to your arrival.
Carparking is now first in — first served. During peak times like school holidays and weekends, we advise driving up to Whakapapa earlier rather than later so you don't miss out on a park. We advise aiming for a 9am – 10am arrival (the earlier the better).
During peak times and very fine weather, there is potentially a risk for the carparks to fill up by mid-morning — hence we recommend a 9AM arrival. However, if you are running a bit late, within a few hours typically carparks start to become free as people head down.
Drop Off Zone
Keep following the Bruce Road all the way to the top of the base and you will see a 10-minute drop off zone. Handy for families — drop the crew and gear off right at the top before heading to park.
Carpark Shuttle
During most of the season, there is a free bus that circuits the carparks — meaning you won’t have to walk to the lifts with all your gear. You will see flags indicating where this will stop. It could be a good idea to consider parking in the ‘day park’ that is closest to this flag, even if you are at one of the lower carparks.
I’m Parked in a Low Day Park!
There will be a small to medium walk to the base, which can be tiring especially with all your gear and kids. A bit of exercise never hurt anyone… but that is why we recommend the drop off zone.
Campers, Buses and Large Vehicles
These vehicles are capable of accessing Whakapapa ski area, however they also have to adhere to the same road restrictions. There are a number of carparks dedicated for these vehicles.
Key Takeaways
Let’s briefly go over some key information. However, we do also offer these two in-depth articles on this topic:
Accommodation Options:
Closest: Whakapapa Village or National Park Village – both are less than a 30-minute drive to the ski lifts.
Our Recommendation: Tūrangi or Tokaanu. Tūrangi is your next closest town to Whakapapa with a great selection of amenities and activities.
Tokaanu has some very cost-effective accommodation options, is close to our shop, peaceful and serene, and features the famous Tokaanu hot pools for that ‘après soak’. Both are around 45 mins to Whakapapa.
Big Town Buzz: Taupō or Ohakune – Your two main tourist towns with supermarkets, dining options, and activities for the whole whānau. Taupo is 1 ½ hours away and Ohakune is about 50 mins
On-Mountain (Lodge Life): Affordable lodge options are available right on the mountain — just steps from the snow. You’ll need to bring your supplies with you as the nearest shops are 40+ minutes away. Google for options.
Planning Tips:
What to Bring:
It depends on your activity, but we’ve got a full breakdown in our gear checklist article. Whether you're skiing, boarding, or sightseeing, make sure you pack warm waterproof layers and the right gear for the conditions.
Ski Passes:
Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu, has a range of ski passes that allow you to access either just the beginner area or the whole mountain. These differ in pricing, along with the sightseeing pass for the Skywaka gondola and sledding pass. For the 2025 season, Whakapapa passes cannot be used to access the same facilities at Pure Turoa.
Note: Whakapapa Ski & Snowboard passes are 'undated' which means you can use your pass at any date during that season.
Pass Types:
Pass Restrictions:
How to Purchase Your Pass:
Snow Card:
Season Passes:
Lessons / Learning to Ski:
Whakapapa has its own ski school that caters to all ability levels from beginners’ group lessons to advanced private lessons. This is all organised by Whakapapa, so visit their lessons page for more information.
All Mountain Lift Passes | Weekend Price | Weekday Price |
---|---|---|
Adult All Mountain | $159 | $109 |
Youth (5–17) All Mountain | $99 | $69 |
Infant (0–4) All Mountain | $0 | $0 |
Lower Mountain Passes (Happy Valley, Rangatira Only) | ||
Adult Lower Mountain | $99 | $79 |
Youth (5–17) Lower Mountain | $79 | $59 |
Beginner Area Passes (Happy Valley Only) | ||
Adult Beginner Area | $79 | $59 |
Youth (5–17) Beginner Area | $59 | $39 |
Lift Pass | Weekend Pass | Weekday Pass |
---|---|---|
When you buy 2 to 5 day passes in one transaction, a discount is automatically applied — saving you up to 20% on your total. |
Up to 20% off | Up to 20% off |
A great day trip option for yourself, family or friends to experience the snow and views at Whakapapa — without having to ski or snowboard.
Sledding:
Sledding is a great beginner activity for first timers to the snow or for those who want to experience a bit of speed and adrenaline without skiing or snowboarding, which can be expensive — especially for a whole family.
There are two sledding options:
Whakapapa’s Own Sledding Area:
Bring Your Own Sled / Rent from Snowscene
Best time to sled:
Typically late July to early September when there is the most snow. Check the webcams at whakapapa.com to see if there is good snow coverage. You can always contact us for advice.
Note: Your own sled cannot be taken on the Sky Waka gondola, into Happy Valley, or on any ski trail or high-traffic area.
Sightseeing / Sky Waka Gondola
Don’t forget to take a trip up the Sky Waka gondola. The views from the ride up and the café at the top are phenomenal — literally as far as the eye can see. You don’t want to miss out on this.
Make sure to buy your Sky Waka ride tickets online beforehand to save $10 on your sightseeing pass.
Snow Play
When there’s good snow coverage, you can throw snowballs to your heart’s content! On lower snowfall years, Whakapapa has two designated snow play zones — one in Happy Valley and one at the top of the Sky Waka. Snowmen guaranteed!
Things to Know:
Lift Pass | Sat/Sun Price | Weekday Price |
---|---|---|
Sightseeing | ||
Adult Sky Waka Sightseeing | $59 | $49 |
Youth (5–17) Sky Waka Sightseeing | $39 | $29 |
Infant (0–5) Sky Waka Sightseeing | FREE | FREE |
Family Sightseeing (2 Adults + 2 Youth) | $159 | $129 |
Sledding | ||
Adult Sledding (1 Hour) | $39 | $29 |
Youth (5–17) Sledding (1 Hour) | $25 | $15 |
Infant (0–5) Sledding | FREE | FREE |
Sightseeing + Sledding Combo | ||
Adult Sky Waka & Sledding Combo | $64 | $64 |
Youth Sky Waka & Sledding Combo | $44 | $44 |
Other Activities | ||
Sky Waka + High 'Tea at 2020m' | Adult $79 / Youth $59 | |
Snowplay in Happy Valley | Free with sledding or Sky Waka ticket, or $10 at gate |
Lift Facilities
Happy Valley and Rangatira (Lower Mountain):
Happy Valley is Mt Ruapehu’s premiere learners ski slope — separate from the main slopes, so it’s safe and cruisy for learning to ski and board. It contains a mixture of chairlifts and carpet lifts to make your learning experience as enjoyable as possible. This is also where all beginners’ lessons will operate from.
Lifts include:
Happy Valley has its own building complete with:
Rangatira Chair:
The Rangatira Quad chair allows access to the Rockgarden beginner/intermediate run and is the perfect step up for those who feel like they can graduate from Happy Valley to some more slightly challenging and longer terrain.
Rest of the Mountain (Upper Mountain):
Accessible with the Full Mountain Pass. This will allow you to access 100% of the ski-able terrain at Whakapapa.
Terrain Breakdown:
Lifts (from base to top):
Rental Gear:
Whakapapa does offer on-mountain rental gear, but we HIGHLY recommend getting fitted at a local ski shop such as Snowscene before heading up the hill.
Why rent off-mountain?
Food Options:
More Amenities and Facilities
Pros:
Cons:
If its your first time, or one of your first times hitting the slopes on your skis or snowboard, we recommend:
Very first time:
We recommend starting off in happy valley - the main beginners slope at Whakapapa. This is a great place to practice the basics in a safe, controlled area
Progression:
-From here, once you have the basics down and have graduated from Happy Valley, we recommend heading to either the Delta or Rangatira Chairs. Both feature long, rolling mild runs for you to continue to advance your skills on
Intermediate Skiers and boarders will enjoy:
Warm Up Trails
Both the Rangatira and Delta Chairs feature a range of beginner and intermediate trails to get your ski legs back and the muscles warmed up
Progression
Both the Valley Tbar and Westridge Chair will feature your next advance in terrain, with a range of intermediate to easier-advanced trails
If you are an advanced skiier, the field is your oyster! We would recommend the Knoll Ridge and Far West tbars for some of the best advanced black to double black terrain.
During the season, Whakapapa will generally operate a small beginners snow park on the upper mountain. The location changes season to season depending on snow levels, so best to check the Whakapapa Snow Report for the latest park updates
At the top of the Skywaka, in and around the 'Knoll Ridge' café is going to be your best for family, friends and snow experience photos for the gram! The Pinnacles ridgeline makes for an iconic backdrop looking out afar into the horizon.
Typically, refunds are not offered on any Whakapapa pass - unless specifically stated. If you have not scanned your pass, or have only used it for under an hour - you could visit Whakapapa Customer service and try your luck
Note: Whakapapa passes are 'undated' which means you can use your pass at any date during that season.
Things to keep in mind when parking at Whakapapa:
You can purchase your lift ticket either:
There is no timetabled “public” bus or shuttle available. There are many small independent bus/shuttle operators to choose from.
More info here: Snowscene Shuttle Blog
Yep! The mountain is closely monitored. Eruption risk is low and there are strong safety protocols.
NO. Not anymore.
Parking is now first in – first serve, so we recommend arriving earlier rather than too late to avoid being delayed to park your car.
From what we know, you are unable to rent snow chains or snow socks. You can purchase them new however from shops like Snowscene.
Yes, you can either rent a sled at Whakapapa and use their maintained sledding zone. Or bring your own! See our sledding section for more info.
Group lessons usually age 4+ (ski) and age 6+ (board). No children allowed in carriers on the slopes.
You cannot access the Happy Valley ski/snowboard snow area without a ski or snowboard pass.
No daycare is currently offered. However, your ski lessons will be run by qualified instructors who will look after your children for the duration of their lesson. Time for a shred without the kids ;)
Baby gear like backpacks or front carriers is okay for sightseeing but not on ski trails. Strollers are not recommended.
In a nutshell, yes you can but it can be dangerous to ski out of bounds so you need to be prepared and do this at your own risk. We do often get questions regarding backcountry skiing, however we feel we are not knowledgeable enough to provide guidance on this. Your best bet would be to check out social media for North Island backcountry groups who can answer your questions. We do not rent backcountry equipment such as touring skis or avalanche kits.
Yes! Whakapapa is committed to making the mountain accessible for everyone, including visitors with disabilities or mobility challenges.
See more info on this: