Whakapapa Things to Do

Most people go to Whakapapa to enjoy the snow activities. You can get your ski passes at the main counter which includes skiis and chair lift passes. Specify whether you want beginners or advanced slopes. Also, for beginners, you can ask for the ski lesson package which is about NZ$75 per person. This includes your lesson, ski lift pass and all ski gear.

However, do remember to bring your own waterproof gloves, beanie, waterproof pants and parka. It can get very cold with the wind chill factor. When we were there, the wind chill factor went right down to -25 degrees. Although it states -2 degrees, when the wind blows, it's a different story.

Skiing & snowboarding at Mount Ruapehu ski area.
Mt Ruapehu is home to New Zealand's two largest ski areas with 1800 hectares of some serious room to move. Whakapapa and Turoa ski resorts located on the north-west and south-west slopes respectively, provide a winter paradise for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities.

This is NZ's largest ski and snowboard area offering a huge variety of terrain for all levels of skiing and snowboarding. It is located on the sunny northern facing slopes of Mount Ruapehu. Whakapapa's winter season runs from June to November with some of the best conditions to be found in spring (September - October).

It also has NZ's premier learners area - Happy Valley.

Mt Ruapehu is NZ's largest active volcano (last eruption in 1996) and provides numerous walks for all ages and fitness levels to explore the unique geology and geographical features of Mt Ruapehu.

You can also take a guided walk to the top of Mt Ruapehu and see the world famous Crater Lake - about 6 hours. Walks depart daily @ 9:30am (booking essential).

Summer on the volcano (December - April)... take a scenic chairlift ride all the way to 2000m above sea level and enjoy food and refreshments @ Knoll Ridge Chalet (NZ's highest café / restaurant).

Ohakune is located on the southwestern slopes of Mt Ruapehu and is the southern gateway to the Tongariro World Heritage Park. It's also know as the carrot capital of New Zealand.

During summer months, this pleasant country town serve as a base for a number of outdoor activities, eg walks, cycling, horse trekking, hunting, fishing... In winter (during ski seasons), the town changes from a relaxed rural town to a bustling ski resort with restaurants, bars, a nightclub hotels, motels, ski retailers and Turoa Ski Resort opening for business.

Check out on the Ohakune web site for various interesting walks / hikes in the area, especially off the Ohakune Mountain Road.

Image taken on Whakapapa on the Nth island in NZ
New Zealand's North Island contains a number of active and potentially active volcanoes.

This photo has 11 images in it:)