Ride New Zealand’s most unique gondola.
Sky Waka travels 1.8 km through some of the North Island’s most dramatic alpine terrain, gliding past rugged volcanic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and snow‑covered peaks.
Winter on the Maunga
Explore 550 hectares of incredible natural terrain, including wide groomed trails, snow‑filled basins, steep chutes, and hidden powder stashes.
Whakapapa is also home to New Zealand’s best beginners’ facility. Happy Valley is a fully self‑contained learners’ area with its own rental complex and ski school meeting point — and no advanced skiers or riders, making it the perfect place to learn.
Snowland – New for Winter 2026
Tubing, sledding, and snowplay now come together in one purpose‑built zone.
One ticket gives you access to all activities, with something fun for every generation.
Make it a combo: pair your Snowland ticket with a Sky Waka gondola ride to 2,020 m for the full winter magic of Mt Ruapehu.
Summer Adventures
In summer, take a scenic gondola ride to the award‑winning for dining with a view, then explore short volcanic walks across this remarkable landscape. Knoll Ridge Chalet for dining with a view, then explore short volcanic walks across this remarkable landscape.
Pack In, Pack Out – Protecting the Maunga
This season, Whakapapa is introducing a pack in, pack out waste initiative.
There will be no general waste bins on the mountain. Recycling bins remain available.
We encourage all visitors to think carefully about what they bring up the maunga and be prepared to take any non‑recyclable, single‑use waste back down with them.
