Whakapapa is located within the boundaries of the Tongariro National Park and lies on the lower north-western slopes of Mount Ruapehu. Whakapapa is New Zealand’s largest area of patrolled ski field and offers world class natural skiing and snowboarding terrain, tobogganing and tubing, all of which enjoy stupendous views over this awesome mountain scenery. During the summer months the area transforms into a popular hiking, tramping and climbing centre and is criss-crossed by trails and tracks, information of which can be obtained from the Department of Conservation Visitors Centre in Whakapapa. The visitors centre can also provide information on the park’s natural and cultural features.
Although it is unusual to have a village within a national park, Whakapappa was built before current day guidelines were established. Today this village is home to approximately 150 permanent residents, and at 1630 metres, is New Zealand’s highest settlement. The population of Whakapapa increases to 400 residents during the ski season which runs from June to October, depending on weather conditions. The first club lodge was built in 1923 and today the private club lodges number almost fifty with a further five lodges in Whakapapa Village. The ski lodges at Whakapapa Ski Field are called Iwikau Village. Access to Mount Ruapehu is easy as the area is serviced by a fully sealed, two lane highway. Whakapapa’s Bruce Road runs for 6 kilometres from Whakapapa Village to the Whakapapa Ski Area.
The Whakapapa Ski Area covers almost 550 hectares and offers numerous trails for all categories of skier. There are many marked trails, but the off piste skiing is incomparable. Whakapapa is renowned for its premier beginner’s facilities in Happy Valley which covers 25% of the ski field, 50% of the ski field is used for intermediate trails, while 25% is used for black and black diamond runs. Access is provided to the black magic back country area. The ski field is serviced by 15 lifts capable of moving 15,000 people per hour, and five cafes provide hot food and drinks. Happy days.
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