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Whakapapa Ski Area
The largest ski area in New Zealand, Whakapapa sits on the slopes of Mt Ruapehu in the spectacular Tongariro National Park, and offers skiing and snowboarding for winter holiday makers of any ability, from complete beginners to seasoned experts!
Getting There
- Snow shuttles operate from Taupo, Turangi, National Park and Whakapaka Village to the Whakapapa ski area - chat to your travel specialist for more information
- Self drive: Whakapapa is just 10 minutes from Whakapapa Village; 42 minutes from Ohakune; 1 hour, 15 minutes from Taupo; 2 hours, 45 minutes from Rotorua; 4 hours from Auckland
Facilities
- Food and drink: Happy Valley Bistro; Knoll Ridge Cafe; Lorenzs' Bar and Cafe
- Car parking: Whakapapa has the capacity to park 1600 cars, with premium, day and overnight parking areas
- Retail store: Vertical Retail offers a range of winter souvenir products
- First aid: the Whakapapa Ski Patrol and medical centre teams manage any medical situations and emergencies
Childcare
Whakapapa does not have any on-mountain childcare facilities
Lessons
Lessons are available for skiing and snowboarding and cater to all levels from beginners to experts, all lessons can be pre-booked through your travel specialist
Terrain
1050 hectares of skiable terrain including 1 terrain park. The field is accessed by 4 quad chairs, 1 double chair, 3 T-bars and 4 surface conveyor lifts
- 25% beginner
- 50% intermediate
- 25% advanced
Mountain Facts
- Base elevation: 1630 metres
- Highest lifted point: 2320 metres
- Vertical rise: 690 metres