New Zealand · Oceania
Whakapapa
Volcanic ski terrain on Mt Ruapehu — Mordor landscapes, reliable Southern Hemisphere snowfall, and unique crater lake.
IndependentVisit resort website →
Base Elev
5,741 ft
Summit
7,218 ft
Vertical
1,477 ft
Acres
1,800
Trails
55
Lifts
11
Season
Opens
Early July
Closes
Late October
Season Length
110 days
Full Open
Late July
ChristmasDec 25
Off-seasonNew Year'sJan 1
Off-seasonSpring BreakPeak season
82%Typical terrain open based on historical patterns. Actual conditions vary.
Optimal Windows
200"avg annual snowfall
Optimal window
Jul 15 – Sep 15
JulyAugustSeptember
Terrain Profile
Vertical
1,477 ft
Acres
1,800
Trails
55
Lifts
11
Beginner36%
Intermediate38%
Advanced26%
Best for
Volcanic terrainBucket listSouthern HemisphereUnique scenery
Quick Facts
RegionWaikato
CountryNew Zealand
HemisphereSouthern
Base elevation5,741 ft
Summit7,218 ft
Vertical1,477 ft
Total acres1,800
Annual snowfall200"
SeasonEarly July – Late October
Walk-up ticket~$100
Optimal window
Jul 15 – Sep 15
JulyAugustSeptember
Track this resort
Get scored conditions every morning.
Whakapapa is tracked in our daily mountain report. Snowpack, storm cycles, and timing — scored and delivered every morning.