Whakapapa Ski Resort Guide
Whakapapa, New Zealand
Rated: 4/5 (from 4 ratings) Write a Review
| Recommended For | Expert Skiers, Intermediates, Beginners and Snowboarders! |
|---|---|
| Highest Lift | 2,300m |
| Lowest Lift | 1,630m |
| Nearest Airports | Taupo and Wanganui |
Whakapapa
Whakapapa is New Zealand's largest ski area, located on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu. It offers diverse terrain for all skill levels and stunning views.
Summary
The ski area of Whakapapa is at an altitude of 1,630m.
Whakapapa has direct access to 30 marked pistes, served by a total of 11 ski lifts.
With ski lifts as high as 2,300m, snow cover is generally reliable.
Skiing
Whakapapa is situated on Mount Ruapehu, boasting an impressive vertical drop of 672 meters and a skiable area of 550 hectares. Notable pistes include the Longview and Happy Valley runs, while the Sky Waka gondola provides access to some of the best terrain on the mountain.
There are a variety of pistes to suit all levels of skier ability, from Beginner to Expert.
Snowboarding
Snowboarders will enjoy Whakapapa's terrain parks, including the beginner-friendly Happy Valley Park and the more challenging Main Park, which features a variety of jumps and rails. The resort caters to all levels of snowboarders looking to improve their skills.
Snow and Weather
Whakapapa enjoys a reliable snow season, typically from June to October, with average snow depths ranging from 1 to 3 meters. For the latest snow conditions and forecasts, check J2Ski for up-to-date information.
When will it snow in Whakapapa?
The next notable snow forecast is 3cm, expected on 31 July.
See our long-range Snow Forecast for the latest update.
Snow this week
| Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | Mon | Tue | Wed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ski Area Stats
Whakapapa Ski Area
| Trails Number of runs | 30 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ski Lifts Number of Lifts | 11 | |
Altitudes & Slopes
Whakapapa Ski Area Heights
| Highest Lift | 2,300m |
|---|---|
| Lowest Piste | 1,630m |
| Max Vertical | 670m |
Ratings & Suitability
| Expert Skiers | |
|---|---|
| Intermediate Skiers | |
| Beginners | |
| Snowboarding |
Whakapapa Overview
Whakapapa Ski Resort features over 65 marked trails and a range of facilities catering to families and experienced skiers alike. The resort is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and excellent snow conditions.
Location and Map
Where is Whakapapa?
This ski resort is in Ruapehu, Manawatu-Wanganui, New Zealand.
Map
Tap 
for Full-Screen, or see J2Ski's Resort map, showing Hotels and Ski Shops.
How to get there
By Air
The nearest airport to Whakapapa is Taupo, 72 minutes drive away.
Wanganui, Wellington, Rotorua, Palmerston North, Hamilton, Napier and New Plymouth airports are all within three hours drive.
Whakapapa is easily accessible from major cities, with the nearest airport being Taupo Airport, approximately 1.5 hours away by car. From Auckland, take State Highway 1 to Taupo and then State Highway 46 to the resort.
Infrastructure
Ski Lift Capacity
There are 11 ski lifts.
Season Dates
When is Whakapapa open?
We don't currently have confirmed season dates, but hope to soon.
NOTE:- Ski area, lift and piste opening is subject to Current Snow Conditions.
Talking about Whakapapa
Mentions in recent J2Ski News Items and Snow Reports from our users...
Aprés Ski
After a day on the slopes, head to the Alpine Cafe for a cozy meal or enjoy drinks at the Snowflake Lounge. For a livelier atmosphere, check out the Ruapehu Mountain Club, offering a great selection of beverages and social activities.
