As the mountain sheds its winter coat, a different kind of adventure opens up. Glide above ancient lava flows on the Sky Waka gondola, settle in for lunch with a view or find your own pace on the alpine trails of Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s only dual UNESCO World Heritage site.
A journey on the Sky Waka gondola (translated as ‘voyaging canoe’ in Te Reo Māori) begins at its base station at 1,630m.
Step into one of our cabins seating up to ten people or upgrade to a premium glass bottom cabin for an even better view. The 12-minute ride climbs 390m over 1.8km to Knoll Ridge Chalet at 2,020m, home to the highest eatery in New Zealand.
In summer the line runs slower giving you more time to settle in, unwind and take in the Central Plateau views.
Your journey up the Sky Waka gondola will take you to 2,020m above sea level to Knoll Ridge Chalet, New Zealand’s highest dining experience and quite possibly the Southern Hemisphere! Feeling like a wander? Five of our six summer hiking trails start right here.
A full table-service dining experience, with a seasonal menu, wine pairing recommendations and panoramic views from the Knoll Ridge Chalet.
Experience New Zealand's highest high tea, as featured on the TV show Off the Grid. Ride the Sky Waka to 2,020m and enjoy a chef-curated selection of sweet and savoury treats with sweeping alpine views.
See Whakapapa and Mt Ruapehu in a new light with short films that bring the mountain’s stories to life.
Located downstairs in Knoll Ridge Chalet, the Skyline Cinema shares everything from the science behind Ruapehu’s volcanic activity to the history and culture that shape this place. You’ll leave with a fresh perspective on the maunga.
Discover sweeping views across Tongariro National Park, with peaceful walking trails, unique volcanic terrain and plenty of photo opportunities along the way!
Get to know Mt Ruapehu through its volcanic landscape, cultural significance and the stories that continue to shape the maunga today.