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Volcano · Whakapapa Village, Manawatū-Whanganui
Mount Ruapehu
The highest point of the North Island, an active volcano at 2,797 meters with the country's largest ski area and the Sky Waka gondola, which rises to about 2,020 meters even outside the snow season.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mount Ruapehu
Mount Ruapehu, at 2,797 meters, is the highest point on the North Island and one of the country’s most active volcanoes. At the summit there is a warm crater lake, and the slopes have small glaciers and lava fields. For Māori, it is a sacred mountain (tūpuna maunga) connected to the high-country tribes.
On the north slope, the road up from Whakapapa ends at the base of the Whakapapa ski area, the country’s largest. From there the Sky Waka gondola climbs about 1.8 km to Knoll Ridge, at around 2,020 meters, where New Zealand’s highest restaurant sits, with views of Ngāuruhoe, Tongariro and, on clear days, Mount Taranaki to the west.
In winter the ski season usually runs from late June to October, depending on snow, with runs for all levels and a beginner area. In summer the gondola operates for sightseeing, and short marked trails explore the volcanic rock and scree around the upper station.
The ascent to the summit and crater is a mountaineering climb and is done with a guide. The volcano is monitored, and access to areas near the crater may be restricted depending on activity.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2–3 hours for the gondola, the restaurant and a short trail; a full day for skiing.
Best time
From late June to October for skiing; from November to April for gondola rides and walking trails. Prefer clear days: with low clouds the view from the top disappears. The gondola closes for part of autumn for maintenance.
How to get there
By car, about 15 minutes from Whakapapa via Bruce Road to the base of the ski area. In winter there are buses from the village of National Park and from Whakapapa; on snowy days the road may require chains.
Tip
Check road conditions and gondola opening on the morning of your visit. Even in summer bring warm layers, a hat and a windbreaker: temperatures drop a lot at the top.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mount Ruapehu
Can you go up Mount Ruapehu without skiing?
Yes. The Sky Waka gondola rises to Knoll Ridge at about 2,020 meters in both winter and summer, and there are short trails near the upper station.
Which months can you ski on Mount Ruapehu?
Generally from late June to October, depending on the year’s snow.
Is Mount Ruapehu an active volcano?
Yes. It is monitored, and access to areas near the crater may be restricted depending on activity.
How high is Mount Ruapehu?
2,797 meters. It is the highest point on the North Island.