Accommodation in Whakapapa (Mount Ruapehu)

Staying at the base area is not an option – a few ski clubs have dormitory accommodation here, but it’s rather drab and access difficult. Local clubs for local people.

However, Whakapapa Village is just three and a half miles down the road and regular shuttle services keep the hotels here connected to the slopes. We’re still in the World Heritage Park, so development is controlled – this remains a resolutely small village despite the world-class skiing on it’s doorstep. Chateau Tongariro is the grand old dame of the village, a grand historical hotel which is steeped in tradition, served up with a bit of real class.

Further down is the unimaginatively named National Park Village, where you’ll find more lodges, bars and restaurants. It’s 10 miles from here to the slopes of Whakapapa.

Ohakune is the largest town in the immediate area and ideally located if you are planning to split your time between Wahakapa and Turoa.

• Hotels
• Cabins

Chateau Tongariro

Much more than your average ski hotel, this is the Grand Old Dame of the region. Timeless elegance, with a strong sense of history and tradition in Whakapapa Village. The best accommodation for miles around.

Skotel

On the outskirts of Wahapapa village this is the budget option for those who simply need a base. Having said that, not without its charm and it's a great place to meet like-minded ski enthusiasts. Several accommodation options.

Skotel

Varying layouts and number of bedrooms

On the outskirts of Wahapapa village this is the budget option for those who simply need a base. Having said that, not without its charm and it's a great place to meet like-minded ski enthusiasts. Several accommodation options.

Hotels

Chateau Tongariro

Much more than your average ski hotel, this is the Grand Old Dame of the region. Timeless elegance, with a strong sense of history and tradition in Whakapapa Village. The best accommodation for miles around.

Skotel

On the outskirts of Wahapapa village this is the budget option for those who simply need a base. Having said that, not without its charm and it's a great place to meet like-minded ski enthusiasts. Several accommodation options.

Cabins

Skotel

On the outskirts of Wahapapa village this is the budget option for those who simply need a base. Having said that, not without its charm and it's a great place to meet like-minded ski enthusiasts. Several accommodation options.

Resort Scorecard

Snowsure

Beginners

Intermediate

Advanced

Snowboarders

Après Ski

Families

Base elevation: 1,630 metres

Top elevation: 2,300 metres

Number of lifts: 14

Number of runs: 67

Access: The closest airport in Taupo, a one and half hour drive away. Most people drive down from Auckland.

How to Book

We don’t believe in off-the-shelf packages - we tailor-make holidays.

• Tell us what you want to do. Whether you have detailed plans or just a vague idea, get in contact – we have knowledge, ideas and expertise.
• We build a tailored itinerary. Once you’ve received it, we can answer any further questions and refine it until you are completely happy.
• Book it. When you are satisfied with all the arrangements, we ask you to complete a booking form and pay a deposit, at which point we start confirming everything.

Different Snow is a fully bonded tour operator, which means we automatically take responsibility for your whole holiday, offering you 100% financial security.