BECOME AN ADAPTIVE VOLUNTEER THIS 2026 WINTER
winter 2026
Whakapapa Adaptive Programme
book lesson

At Whakapapa, the mountain is for everyone no matter their ability.

Our Adaptive Programme opens up skiing and snowboarding with the right support, equipment and guidance.

Adaptive means shaping the experience around you, with options like sit-skis, outriggers and modified gear so you can get out there with confidence.

Supporting those with disabilities?

Supporting those with disabilities?

We believe snow sports should be accessible to everyone. Our adaptive lessons are designed to support children and adults with a wide range of physical, sensory, developmental and cognitive disabilities. Every lesson is tailored to the individual, with trained instructors, adaptive equipment and personalised approaches to help create a safe, supportive and enjoyable experience on snow.

We regularly support guests with:

  • Physical disabilities and limited mobility, including wheelchair users, amputees and limb differences
  • Neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy and brain injuries
  • Neurodiversity, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD and learning differences
  • Sensory disabilities, including vision and hearing impairment
  • Other developmental or cognitive support needs

If you'd like to better understand how we can support your individual needs, contact us directly at adaptive@whakapapa.com.

What do we offer?

Private Lessons
Private Lessons

Available throughout the peak winter season (4th July 2026 – 11th October 2026). Private adaptive lessons can be purchased now and are tailored to individual needs, goals and ability levels.

Whakapapa Adaptive Festival
Whakapapa Adaptive Festival
11th – 13th Sep 2026

An inclusive on-snow festival celebrating adaptive snowsports, connection and progression. Spaces are limited.

Equipment Hire
Equipment Hire

We offer adaptive-specific equipment for independent rental. To ensure safe and responsible use, equipment can only be hired after use with an instructor or following a lesson.

SSNZ Membership Discounts
SSNZ Membership Discounts

We offer discounts of up to 50% for Snow Sports NZ members on our adaptive products.

Join our adaptive volunteer team.

Join our adaptive volunteer team.

Help make more days on snow possible.

Our adaptive volunteers help people of all abilities experience the mountain. Working alongside trained instructors, you'll support guests on and off snow and play a key role in creating safe, enjoyable and accessible experiences.

No previous adaptive experience is required. We'll provide the training and support you need.

As a volunteer, you'll be part of a great mountain community, receive a free day pass for every day you volunteer and, if you already have a season pass, you can earn up to a full refund through volunteering.

Email adaptive@whakapapa.com to register your interest.

Accessibility facilities are available across the maunga.

Accessibility facilities are available across the maunga.

Priority parking, accessible toilets, elevator access and accessible dining are available at multiple locations across Whakapapa.

If you need assistance before your visit, contact our team at info@whakapapa.com. During winter, we can also help arrange barrier gate access to accessible parking areas.

Got a question about adaptive?

For more information, reach out to our team via email at adaptive@whakapapa.com or visit our Accessibility page.

How can I book?
I have some other questions, who can I contact?
How do I become a Snow Sports NZ Adaptive member?