Whakapapa Ski Resort
# 5All Mountain Terrain in Oceania
# 2Beginner Terrain in New Zealand
# 1Overall in Manawatu-Wanganui
All ReviewsOverview
Whakapapa is situated upon the north-western slopes of Mt. Ruapehu located on New Zealand’s North Island. The ski field is known for being the largest in New Zealand and for being located atop an active volcano. Whakapapa has terrain for all ability types and is accompanied by amazing views.
The ski field is operated by Ruapehu Ski Lifts and a lift ticket also grants visitors access to neighboring resort Turoa. Whakapapa Ski Area is a great resort for families, beginners and the more adventurous skier or snowboarder. The ski season at Whakapapa usually starts in late June and runs through the end of October.
There are 1,500 bunks on mountain. Nearby accomodations include hotels, motels and backpacker facilities.
Terrain
Like most New Zealand ski fields, Whakapapa is above treeline and provides visitors with wide open runs and expansive terrain. The ski area is naturally divided by an ancient lava field.
Beginners have multiple options within the Happy Valley area. Happy Valley is a separate beginner’s area set aside from the rest of the resort.
Intermediate skiers and riders are at home with multiple wide open groomers. For the expert, check out some of the black runs just left of the Amphitheatre.
Backcountry skiers will find an abundance of off–piste terrain, chutes, cliffs, and steep runs in the Black Magic backcountry area.
Inside Scoop
Whakapapa is an updated, modern resort with great facilities and services. The ski area has a ski and snowboard school, child care, ski hire and a variety of restaurants.
Best Time for Snow
Average Snowfall
34"
21"
14"
7"
3"
3"
Jun
19"
Jul
28"
Aug
16"
Sep
5"
Oct
Terrain Overview
18%
Beginners Runs
18%
Intermediate Runs
64%
Advanced Runs
28
Runs in Total
Total Lifts: 8
1
Gondolas & Trams
1
High Speed Quads
1
Quad Chairs
1
Double Chairs
4
Surface Lifts
Elevation
7546'
Summit
2198'
Vertical Drop
5348'
Base
Important Dates
July 01, 20232023/07/01
Projected Opening
October 22, 20232023/10/22
Projected Closing
N.A.
Projected Days Open
114
Days Open Last Year
N.A.
Years Open
0"
Average Snowfall
Contact Information
Whakapapa
Ruapehu Alpine Lifts Ltd. Privat Bag
Mount Ruapehu, Manawatu-Wanganui
New Zealand
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