Find hotels in Whakapapa from £28

Top reasons to visit Whakapapa

• Adventure Sports: Whakapapa is renowned for its thrilling skiing opportunities at the Mt Ruapehu ski fields, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.
• Scenic Gondola Rides: Enjoy breathtaking views with a scenic gondola ride, offering a unique perspective of the stunning landscapes.
• Explore Tongariro National Park: Nestled within this majestic park, Whakapapa is a gateway to incredible hiking and natural wonders.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The area features numerous attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring fun for the entire family.
• Charming Accommodation: Choose from a variety of lodges and hotels, catering to both adventurers and families seeking comfort.

Find great hotels in and around Whakapapa

Whakapapa offers a delightful array of accommodation options, perfect for adventurers and families alike. Whether you're seeking the comfort of a hotel or the charm of a lodge, you'll find amazing stays that cater to ski enthusiasts and those wanting to explore Tongariro National Park. With proximity to Whakapapa Ski Resort and holiday rentals, your ideal getaway awaits in this stunning region of New Zealand.

• The Park Hotel Ruapehu: Nestled 5.0km away from Whakapapa, The Park Hotel Ruapehu is a 3-star haven for thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts. This hotel promises an exhilarating escape with a variety of adventure sports and recreational activities available both onsite and nearby. Guests can indulge in skydiving, kayaking, downhill skiing, rafting, and hiking or biking, making it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. The hotel provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day full of adventure.
• Skotel Alpine Resort: Located in the heart of Whakapapa, Skotel Alpine Resort offers a 3.5-star experience tailored for ski lovers and nature aficionados. With easy access to ski shuttles and lifts, this resort is perfect for those keen to hit the slopes. Guests can participate in a range of activities, including snowboarding, downhill skiing, rock climbing, and onsite ski rentals. The resort captures the essence of alpine living, providing a cosy retreat amidst stunning natural landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable winter getaway.
• Plateau Lodge: Positioned 5.0km from Whakapapa, Plateau Lodge is a 3-star eco-certified motel that caters to families and eco-conscious travellers. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, this lodge offers an array of adventure activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, mountain climbing, and nearby ski rentals. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, including games, books, a first aid kit, sledding options, and a shared playground. Plateau Lodge combines eco-friendly practices with family-friendly comforts, making it a perfect choice for a memorable family vacation.

Where to stay near Whakapapa

Whakapapa, nestled within the breathtaking Tongariro National Park, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. This charming village offers a range of experiences, from exhilarating ski passes for winter getaways to serene strolls through stunning landscapes. Nearby, you can explore family-friendly attractions and enjoy the luxury of local lodges. With its friendly atmosphere and picturesque scenery, Whakapapa promises an unforgettable holiday in New Zealand's natural wonderland.

• Tongariro National Park: Nestled approximately 3.7km from Whakapapa, Tongariro National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This stunning national park boasts dramatic landscapes, including active volcanic peaks and lush valleys. The area experiences a moderate seasonal influx of visitors, with peak times occurring in July and December to January. Activities include skiing on the slopes and exploring the myriad of walking trails that showcase the park’s breathtaking scenery. Highlights include the iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing, famous for its otherworldly terrain.
• National Park Village: Located around 5.0km from Whakapapa, National Park Village serves as a charming base for adventurers seeking to explore the surrounding natural beauty. This suburb sees consistent visitor traffic year-round, with a slight uptick from June to August. The village offers a range of outdoor activities, from skiing to hiking, set against the backdrop of majestic mountains. It’s an ideal spot to relax after a day of adventure, with quaint cafes and shops that capture the spirit of the region. Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Whakapapa Ski Area.
• Iwikau: Just 1.9km from Whakapapa, Iwikau is a picturesque village that draws thrill-seekers and sports enthusiasts alike. With a moderately seasonal visitor pattern peaking in July and December to January, Iwikau is renowned for its skiing opportunities. The ski field and lifts provide access to exhilarating slopes, making it a popular destination for winter sports. The proximity to the national park allows for stunning views and a wealth of outdoor activities, ensuring visitors can immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of the area.

Things to do near Whakapapa

Whakapapa offers a thrilling escape for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Key activities include exploring the Whakapapa ski area, taking a scenic gondola ride, and enjoying adult Skywaka sightseeing. Visitors can also partake in fun tours and experience the excitement of skiing in this stunning outdoor setting, making it a perfect destination for a memorable holiday in New Zealand.

Shopping

In Whakapapa, you can visit local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Mountain Bike Station, located 9.9km away, which offers a range of outdoor gear and memorabilia to remember your adventure.

Recreation

Marton Sash and Door Cycling Park offers a tranquil recreational area perfect for cycling and relaxation, located 5.0km from Whakapapa. For a fun-filled day, Ohakune Disc Golf, situated 10.6km away, provides a unique mini-golf experience amidst scenic surroundings. Waimarino Golf Club, 11.8km away, exudes luxury with its stunning course.

Adventure

The Whakapapa Ski Area offers exhilarating skiing experiences amidst stunning alpine scenery, perfect for both beginners and seasoned skiers. For an added thrill, hop on the Rockgarden Chair and Centennial Chair ski lifts, which provide access to breathtaking slopes and adventure-filled days on the mountain.

Nightlife

In Whakapapa, enjoy a relaxed evening at the Whakapapa Village Café, where you can savour a selection of local wines. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Mountain House Restaurant, offering hearty meals and a chance to mingle with fellow travellers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Whakapapa

To save money on your trip to Whakapapa, visit during the off-peak months of May and October to November when prices drop. Opt for public transport such as buses, or consider carpooling with fellow travellers. Take advantage of free entry to Tongariro National Park and other activities. Book your accommodation at least a month in advance, or search for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Tuesday is the cheapest day to stay, while Saturday is the most expensive. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for added savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Whakapapa are May and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Whakapapa is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Whakapapa is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Whakapapa is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Whakapapa hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Whakapapa

Whakapapa, nestled within Tongariro National Park, is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. With a wealth of attractions including stunning national parks, a visitor centre, and historic sites, it offers plenty to explore. Don't miss the renowned Mt Ruapehu ski fields, along with the chance to enjoy popular local attractions and scenic experiences that make Whakapapa a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Tongariro National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park boasts stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Explore volcanic craters, emerald lakes, and scenic hiking trails that cater to all levels of adventure seekers.
• Tongariro National Park Whakapapa Visitor Centre: A fantastic starting point for visitors, the centre offers insightful exhibitions and information about the park's natural wonders. Enjoy family-friendly activities and plan your outdoor adventures from this central hub.
• Taranaki Falls: Just a short trek from Whakapapa, this stunning waterfall cascades over ancient lava flows. It's an idyllic setting for a romantic picnic or simply to soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Best time to go to Whakapapa

The best time to visit Whakapapa can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Whakapapa falls in January, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Whakapapa falls in July, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	38.7°F (3.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	34.7°F (1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	31.6°F (-0.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
July	29.1°F (-1.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	30.2°F (-1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
October	35.8°F (2.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
November	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Whakapapa

For your visit to Whakapapa in Tongariro National Park, the nearest major airport is Taupo Airport (TUO), situated 26.7km away. Close to the airport, you have several excellent accommodation options, including The Point Villas and Huka Lodge, both 5-star lodges located 4 and 3.7km from the airport, respectively, offering free 24-hour shuttle services. Another option is Lake Taupo Lodge, a 5-star bed and breakfast located 2.5km from the airport, which has a fee-based transportation service. These hotels provide convenient access for your travel needs while exploring the stunning landscapes of New Zealand.