Explore the heart of New Zealand’s North Island at its most raw and real, from both above the ground and on foot.
From December to April - our "Summer Season" - Whakapapa sits mostly bare of its winter coat, exposing its unique volcanic terrain in its rawest form.
The Sky Waka gondola – gives views of this terrain from above, carrying guests on a 1.8km journey.
On arrival at 2020m, guests are welcomed to the Knoll Ridge Chalet offering different food and beverage options, and extended views.
Explore the volcanic terrain on foot across six well-marked trails.
A journey on the Sky Waka gondola – translated to mean ‘voyaging canoe’ - begins at it's base station, a short walk across the plaza from the carparks.
Guests are welcomed aboard one of 48 gondola cabins, each seating up to ten people and glass encased to invite in the panoramic views.
The climb of 390m or journey of 1.8km takes about 12 minutes, each way. The line is slowed down in summer to allow guests to settle in, unwind, and take in views out to the Central Plateau.
At 2020m, and on completion of the Sky Waka gondola journey, guests are welcomed into the architecturally awarded, Knoll Ridge Chalet.
Enjoy your meal and / or drink with a backdrop of Ngā Tohu, Pinnacles range - a spectacularly sharp ridge that belies the reality of Mt Ruapehu's volcanic origin.
New this Summer Season - we're excited to introduce a brand new selection of mouthwatering burgers in the Knoll Ridge chalet.
Our unique take on burgers offers something for everyone with 10 delicious options, including classic beef, vegetarian, and vegan choices, alongside other tasty options like fresh salads, crispy fried chicken with our special lava sauce, and golden fries - making it the perfect way to enjoy a satisfying meal while taking in the stunning views at 2020m.
Our take on a traditional high tea - 'Tea at 2020m' - can be booked ahead of time, and enjoyed at the top of the Sky Waka gondola in the Knoll Ridge Chalet.
An evolving menu of sandwiches, savouries, and cakes, served on a two-tiered cake stand.
Includes your choice of tea or coffee, or add on a flute of prosecco (our Royal High Tea) or a gin and tonic (our Gin Tea), depending on your taste.
Quite possibly the highest high tea in the world.
Purchase in combination with your Sky Waka gondola pass to save. Bookings required.
Explore the fascinating mix of volcanic rock, pumice, scoria, and sand, on foot, with six walks well marked by our team, to help you navigate through the rocky formations.
Ranging from 20 minutes return through to 2.5 hours return, the walks commence either at the base of the Sky Waka gondola or at the top. Look out for interactive information on route.
Suitable for a range of abilities, and good walking or hiking shoes are recommended.