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Whakapapa

Whakapapa Ski Resort Guide

Whakapapa, New Zealand

Rated: 4/5 (from 4 ratings)  Write a Review

Ski Area Highlights
Recommended ForExpert Skiers, Intermediates, Beginners and Snowboarders!
Highest Lift2,300m
Lowest Lift1,630m
 Nearest AirportsTaupo 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

Snow Forecast by day for Whakapapa
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Ski Area Stats

Whakapapa Ski Area

Piste and Lift Stats
Trails
Number of runs
30
Ski Lifts
Number of Lifts
11

Altitudes & Slopes

Whakapapa Ski Area Heights

Lift Heights and Resort Altitude
Highest Lift2,300m
Lowest Piste1,630m
Max Vertical670m

Ratings & Suitability

Ratings for Whakapapa
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 Show Map in Full Screen 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.

Whakapapa