Whakapapa Ski Area is located on the north western slopes of Mt Ruapehu and on a clear day has a spectacular views accross the central North Island. A short 6 km drive up from Whakapapa Village will get you to the base of the ski area. Whakapapa is renowned for its world class beginner facilities in Happy Valley. It has its own dedicated ski hire facilities and a 120 seat cafeteria to re-energize in throughout the day. With its north facing basin, many steep faces and gullies, Whakapapa is an adventure playground for skiers and riders looking for more challenge. The correct pronunciation of the resort will also bring a smile to most skiers and boarders.

Whakapapa is home to New Zealand's premiere beginners' area, Happy Valley. It's a big complete learner’s area in its own valley away from the worry of faster skiers/boarders putting you off. It has its own cafe, rental complex and ski school meeting area. The gentle slope is nice and long, giving you plenty of time to really get the hang of your new sport and there is a slow-moving chairlift that takes you to the top of the slope while giving your legs a rest between runs.

There are more than 30 groomed trails that intermediate skiers and boarders love. The volcanic terrain at Whakapapa gives a massive variety between trails, giving you the choice of bumps, chutes, drops, bowls or nice wide runs.

With 24 black and black diamond runs plus the lift accessed Black Magic backcountry area, there is plenty at Whakapapa to get the adrenaline pumping even for the most expert of experts. The pinnacles backcountry area is used for the increasingly popular Extreme Competition each September and provides some of the most challenging terrain you'll find anywhere but be prepared to be watched as it's clearly viewable from the lifts and upper mountain cafe!