Whakapapa
Ruapehu – Whakapapa New Zealand
Whakapapa (pronounced fukka puppa – yes you read that correctly!) is one of only two commercial ski resorts on the North Island of New Zealand. Some riders think that Whakapapa ski field is smokin’! And it is literally, considering that the ski resort sits on the north-western slope of Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand’s most active volcano that last erupted in September 2007. Check out some of the photos of various volcanic eruptions at the Chateau Tongariro café. The photos show some crazy folks that were still skiing at Mt Ruapehu even though there was red hot lava flowing down the mountain. Now that is dedication to the sport!
Whakapapa has a sister resort, the
Turoa Ski Field that is located on the south western side of Mount Ruapehu. The Mt Ruapehu lift pass not only works for Whakapapa, but also for
Turoa.
Mount Ruapehu Whakapapa Ski and Snowboard Terrain
Whakapapa claims to be the largest ski area in New Zealand, yet when only considering the in-bounds terrain the size is equal to that of
Treble Cone ski resort. The 550 hectares of terrain at Whakapapa has 60 trails to suit all ability levels. The well-protected “Happy Valley” area has gentle slopes for beginners. Oodles of nice wide groomed runs are the order of the day for intermediates, and Whakapapa has stacks of black and black diamond trails for advanced skiers and boarders. And considering the terrain is treeless, off-piste options are countless including bowls, chutes, and lots of drops. At Whakapapa you can have a hucking good time! Freestylers are also blessed with a terrain park and halfpipe.
On the East side there is really diverse terrain thanks to volcanic eruptions and the subsequent lava rivers, and the area has spectacular views for skiers and boarders of all levels to appreciate. The West side has more open ski terrain and access to the pinnacles “Black Magic” backcountry area.
Whakapapa Snow and Weather
The weather at Mt Ruapehu is extremely changeable and incredibly unpredictable. By all means check the forecast before you head out for the day, but then prepare for all weather conditions anyway!
Whakapapa has only 240cm of snow falling annually, so powderhounds can probably leave their snorkels at home.
Where is Whakapapa Ski Field?
Whakapapa is located on the north-western slope of Mt Ruapehu, New Zealand. The ski area lies within the Tongariro National Park, a dual World Heritage Area.
Located approximately half way between Auckland and Wellington, the Whakapapa ski area is approximately 4 hours drive from Auckland, and 4.5 hours from Wellington. If self-driving, you can get to the Whakapapa ski field easily as both routes are fully sealed and easy to navigate and drive. There is ample free parking, and free shuttles will take you from the lower carparks to the base of the ski area.
Other transport options include a tour bus from Auckland or Wellington, or there’s a train service between Auckland and Wellington that runs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday during winter, with stops at both National Park Village and Ohakune.
Whakapapa Accommodation
With only private ski lodges on the Whakapapa slope (which are also open to school group bookings), the closest place to stay to the Whakapapa ski area is Whakapapa Village, approximately 6 kms (10 minutes) down the fully sealed dual lane Bruce Highway. A little further down the road, but still only 15 minutes away from the ski area’s car park, is National Park Village.
Both villages offer a range of options from a budget holiday park to fancy pants accommodation. The jewel is the Chateau Tongariro in Whakapapa Village, with unsurpassed views of the three magnificent mountains of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe.
The accommodation areas are serviced by a shuttle service to transport skiers and boarders to and from the ski area.
Why Ski or Snowboard at Whakapapa?
Whakapapa looks the goods if:
- you are stuck on the North Island and don’t want to head to the South Island;
- you have always wanted to tell your friends you have glided down the slopes of an active volcano;
- you want to ski through to the end of October or beyond;
- you want a good value ski adventure;
- or you just like the sound of the place!
Whakapapa is still easy to access via a fully sealed road yet it’s more challenging than its sister resort Turoa. Whether on a board or skis, the options of chutes, bowls and bumps should keep you on your toes. However the west side “Black Magic” backcountry area is the main draw card for a memorable and challenging powderhounds day at the snow.
Whakapapa Listings
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