📷 Whakapapa
Oceania
Whakapapa
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Last Snowfall
Sep 29
6d agoPast 24 Hours
0cm
Resort reportedPast 48 Hours
0cm
Past 10 Days
5cm
7-Day Forecast
1cm
Snow Depth
67cm
Resort reportedPowder Days
9
2026 season
Bluebird Days
2
2026 season
Local Snow
SnowSure Forecaster · October 3, 2026 · How we forecast →
A light dusting of snow arrives this weekend.
This week, we’re looking at a total of 7cm. Snow starts Saturday with 5cm expected, then tapers off into a quieter stretch early next week.
Short-Term Forecast
Over the next 72 hours, we’ll see some fresh snow beginning Saturday with about 5.5cm, making it the biggest day of this stretch. Sunday brings a lighter 1cm, while Monday wraps up this round with no additional snow. Overall, we’re looking at a total of 6.8cm.
Extended Forecast
Days 4 to 7 will be quieter, with no significant snowfall expected. The week will settle down after Monday, so if you're looking for fresh tracks, keep an eye on Saturday.
Yesterday: Light snow returns this weekend at Whakapapa
Adequate snow - check forecasts before booking.
Currently, Whakapapa has a snow depth of 67cm, which is 96% of the 5-year average for this time of year. The temperature is -8°C with overcast conditions, making for a chilly day on the slopes.
AI-generated summaryDepth
67cm depth — good coverage on most runs.
Recent
There has been no new snowfall in the past week.
Forecast
Light snow possible this week.
Historic
This season's snow total of 106cm is slightly below the 5-year average of 110cm for this date.
Data updated Mon, Oct 5, 05:05 PM UTC
Current Conditions
Reported Mon, Oct 5, 05:05 PM UTC
Terrain Open
Ops signals
- ●Freezing level below base — snowmaking window open
- ●Cold summit temps — snow preservation favorable
Days 8–14 and every model are in SnowSure Pro.
Unlock with ProHistorical data from Open-Meteo archive • Forecast: SnowSure™ multi-model blend
Maps
All maps for Whakapapa →
Webcams & Proof of Powder
All webcams & Proof of Powder →
About Whakapapa
Whakapapa is New Zealand’s largest ski area, located on the northwestern slopes of Mt Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park. The resort features over 550 hectares of skiable terrain, catering to all abilities with wide beginner slopes, intermediate trails, and advanced runs, as well as the renowned Sky Waka gondola offering panoramic views. Whakapapa’s amenities include a modern base area, equipment rentals, ski school, and multiple dining options, making it a versatile destination for families and adventure seekers. Its unique volcanic landscape and extensive facilities distinguish it as a premier ski destination in the Southern Hemisphere.
Read the full resort guide →Frequently asked questions about Whakapapa
- Where is Whakapapa?
- Whakapapa is a ski resort in New Zealand.
- How high is Whakapapa?
- Whakapapa runs from a base elevation of 1,630 m (5,348 ft) to a summit of 2,300 m (7,546 ft), giving a vertical drop of 670 m (2,198 ft).
- How big is Whakapapa?
- Whakapapa has 1,360 acres (550 hectares) of skiable terrain, 67 marked runs and 12 lifts.
- Which ski pass covers Whakapapa?
- Whakapapa is on the Powder Alliance. Access terms such as blackout dates and day limits vary by pass tier, so check the pass operator for the current season.
- When is ski season at Whakapapa?
- Whakapapa typically operates from July to October. Exact opening and closing dates shift each year with snowfall — check the resort's current season dates before booking.
- How much snow does Whakapapa get in a typical season?
- Whakapapa averages 68 inches / 173 cm of snowfall in a typical season. Any individual season can run well above or below that.
- How will El Niño affect Whakapapa in winter 2026?
- El Niño Signal: under review — this station's record has an era discontinuity. We publish the station as under review rather than ranking a broken series.
