Whakapapa Resort Guide - Real Reviews From Real Skiers
220,849 resort ratings from real skiers Leave your review

The Skiers' Guide to Whakapapa: Expert Analysis & Reviews

4.5 (4 reviews)
Ski Resorts>Oceania>New Zealand>Whakapapa
4.50 (4 ratings)
Overall Rating
4.50 (4 ratings)
Value for Money
4.50 (2 ratings)
Après-Ski
3.75 (4 ratings)
Off Piste
4.00 (2 ratings)
Eating Out
4.25 (4 ratings)
Accommodation Options
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Whakapapa, situated on Mt. Ruapehu’s northwestern slopes, is New Zealand’s largest ski resort. It features a variety of terrain, from beginner-friendly Happy Valley to advanced steeps and chutes. The resort’s expansive slopes, modern facilities, and dramatic volcanic scenery attract skiers and snowboarders from all over. Whakapapa is also home to the Sky Waka gondola, providing spectacular views and access to high-altitude dining. Its combination of size, terrain diversity, and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit destination.

Reviews

Great for families with the beginner slope (Happy Valley) for learning super friendly. Best in the middle of winter as snow fall is more guaranteed.
Overall Rating
Family Friendliness
Off Piste
Value for Money
Groomed Runs
Quiet Slopes
Lift Efficiency
Ski School Quality
Accommodation Options
Only had a couple of days on our trip, but very much enjoyed this resort! Hadn't been images, everything was easy to.find hire book etc and very lovely experience
Overall Rating
Family Friendliness
Off Piste
Snow Parks
Value for Money
Groomed Runs
Tree Skiing
Mogul Fields
Powder Zones
Quiet Slopes
Lift Efficiency
Accommodation Options
Really good experience... amazing views.. Nice slones.. facility were good as well. I would recommend
Overall Rating
Family Friendliness
Off Piste
Snow Parks
Eating Out
Après-Ski
Value for Money
Groomed Runs
Tree Skiing
Mogul Fields
Powder Zones
Quiet Slopes
Lift Efficiency
Ski School Quality
Accommodation Options

Resort Stats

Ski Terrain
3Beginner Runs
9Intermediate Runs
16Advanced Runs
3Expert Runs
1.5 kmLongest Run
18.6 kmSkiable Terrain
Elevation
7618 mTop
5249 mBottom
2369 mVertical Drop
Lifts
5Chairlifts
4Surface Lifts
Lift Pass Costs
NZ$599Season pass
Weather
78 cmAverage annual snowfall

Getting There

Airports

  • Taupo Airport (TUO) 100KMs 90min drive

Train Stations

  • National Park Station 16 / km 20m drive