whakapapa ski-field

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.

Whakapapa Ski-field and village lies within the Tongariro National Park, on the lower north-west slopes of Mt Ruapehu. Whakapapa is New Zealands largest ski area, 1050 Hectares. It is the ancestral home of Ngāti Tūwharetoa. Embrace the feeling of awe as you stand amongst the sacred mountains of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe which make up the world’s first dual World Heritage area. Great access to multiple locations and backdrops.

Elements of Lord of the Rings were filmed in this area here.

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.