Event Date: 30 May 2026
Whakapapa opening day is on 30th May 2026
Whakapapa Ski Area is planning to kick off winter early from 30 May 2026 with the opening of “Snowland” – a family-friendly snow experience focused on snow play, tubing, and sledding.
Located at the upper level of Happy Valley, Snowland will feature tubing lanes, sledding areas, and dedicated snow play zones, giving visitors the chance to get into the snow before the main ski and snowboard terrain opens for the season.
Visitors can also combine Snowland access with the Scenic Gondola for panoramic views across the volcanic landscape of Mount Ruapehu.