Your ticket to ride
Summer sightseeing
Mt Ruapehu summer season
Summer season has begun, running through to April 25, weather dependant operating 10am-4pm each day. Purchase your Sky Waka passes on arrival on mountain. Awe inspiring short walks, and cafe style refreshments available at 2020m at the Knoll Ridge Chalet.

Explore Mt Ruapehu from December to April in its rawest form.
Travel on the Sky Waka gondola - New Zealand's premier gondola - 1.8km up to a height of 2020m above sea level.

On arrival at the top, be welcomed to the architectually awarded Knoll Ridge Chalet, where against a backdrop of the spectacular Ngā Tohu, Pinnacles range, you can choose from a cafe style offering at the Pātaka Cafe, or a delicious coffee or drink at The Coffee Corner.

Sky Waka gondola passes

Start at the the base station of the Sky Waka gondola, and journey up into the clouds, passed waterfalls, and ancient lava flows, on your way to a height of 2020m above sea level.

Each Sky Waka gondola cabin seats 10 people, and the 1.8km journey takes about 12 minutes, offering panoramic views out across the Central Plateau on the journey.

Sky Waka gondola pass options
Sky Waka gondola pass
A single return trip on the Sky Waka gondola, starting at the base station. Passes are open dated and can be used on any operational day during the summer season.
Includes:
One return trip
Valid:
Mon - Sun
Ski Area:
Whakapapa
Purchase on Mountain
Special passes
Sky Waka gondola pass - gold card
A single return trip on the Sky Waka gondola, starting at the base station. Proof of Gold Card is required at the time of purchase.
Includes:
One return trip
Valid:
Mon - Sun
Ski Area:
Whakapapa
Purchase on Mountain
Sky Waka gondola pass - Season pass holders
A 25% discount for holders of a 2022 Season Pass. A single return trip on the Sky Waka gondola, starting at the base station.
Includes:
One return trip
Valid:
Mon - Sun
Ski Area:
Whakapapa
Purchase on Mountain

Season Pass FAQs

What are the age categories for your passes?
What does a family pass include?

Pātaka and Coffee Corner

Add a caffeinated hit to your day. Hot and cold beverages, and cabinet food options to tide you over. Ethically produced, premium Gravity coffee, made by our baristas. Located in the Knoll Ridge Chalet.