Area Profile
Whakapapa
Whakapapa Ski Area on the north-western slopes is New Zealand's largest ski area. It has more than 65 trails across 1050 hectares.
It is home to New Zealand's premiere beginners area. Happy Valley is a learner’s area that is separate to the main ski area so beginners can progress without the worry of faster skiers putting them off!
It has its own cafe, rental complex and ski school meeting area, there are many local accomodation providers suiting all budgets.
The gentle slope is long enough for you really get the hang of your new sport and there is a slow-moving chairlift that takes beginners to the top of the slope whilst giving them a chance to rest their legs.
There are 30 groomed trails along with a huge variety of off-piste areas that intermediate and advanced skiers will love.
Ski season is from July until October.