One month since WHL took the reins at Whakapapa, momentum is real. Snow play has begun, Sky Waka gondola is running, new snow guns are in — and the groundwork for a revitalised season is firmly in place.
Whakapapa opens Friday 30 May, just ahead of King’s Birthday weekend. We begin with Sky Waka sightseeing and sledding in Happy Valley. From there, the experience expands — lift by lift, run by run.
An open letter from the team at Whakapapa — written in response to the news that, after 933 days of uncertainty, Whakapapa has been granted a new 10-year concession.
Whakapapa's future just got real. Whakapapa Holdings Limited (WHL) has — with pride and elation — received its new concession to operate Whakapapa Ski Area.
Nips (North Island Primary & Intermediate Schools Ski Championships) is back — now officially sanctioned by Snow Sports NZ — bringing primary and intermediate students together from 24–27 August to compete, connect, and celebrate Whakapapa’s commitment to growing snow sport excellence.
Whakapapa is planning significant investment in its snowmaking infrastructure ahead of the winter 2025 season, with upgrades across its Waterfall, Hut Flat, and Rockgarden terrain.
Public submissions are currently open on Whakapapa Holdings 2024 Limited (WHL)’s application to lease and license Whakapapa for a ten-year period. Submissions can be made on the Department of Conservation (DOC) website up until 11:59pm Friday 7 February 2025. A guide on how to submit can be found below
