Find hotels in Whakapapa from $35

Top reasons to visit Whakapapa

• Adventure Activities: Whakapapa is renowned for skiing and snowboarding, featuring a ski field with a convenient lift for easy access.
• Stunning Hiking Trails: Explore scenic trails that showcase the breathtaking landscapes of Tongariro National Park.
• Family-Friendly Recreation: Enjoy various outdoor activities and recreational areas suitable for families.
• Charming Village Atmosphere: Visit Whakapapa Village for a taste of local culture and warm hospitality.
• Variety of Accommodations: Choose from cozy lodges to full-service hotels, all offering easy access to outdoor adventures.

Find great hotels in and around Whakapapa

Explore a range of accommodations in Whakapapa, Tongariro National Park, perfect for your adventurous getaway. Whether you’re seeking a cozy lodge or a full-service hotel, you’ll find excellent options tailored for families and ski enthusiasts alike. With stunning views and easy access to outdoor activities, Whakapapa hotels offer an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Check out reviews to find the ideal place for your ski vacation or family adventure.

• The Park Hotel Ruapehu: The Park Hotel Ruapehu is a 3-star adventure haven located 8 miles from Whakapapa. This hotel is perfect for thrill-seekers looking to immerse themselves in outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy a variety of adventure sports onsite or nearby, including skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and even skydiving. With a focus on recreational activities, this hotel offers an exhilarating experience while providing comfortable lodging for those who crave adventure in the stunning landscapes of Tongariro National Park.
• Skotel Alpine Resort: Situated in the heart of Whakapapa, the Skotel Alpine Resort boasts a 3.5-star rating and is ideal for families seeking a nature-themed getaway. This resort provides a range of amenities designed specifically for children, ensuring that young guests are entertained and well-cared for. With features like an arcade game room, toys for both children and babies, and a first aid kit on hand, families can relax and enjoy their stay. The resort’s proximity to breathtaking walking trails and stunning alpine scenery makes it a perfect choice for nature lovers.
• Plateau Lodge: Plateau Lodge, a 3-star motel located 8 miles from Whakapapa, caters to both adventure enthusiasts and families. This lodge offers a variety of recreational activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and mountain climbing, making it an excellent base for outdoor exploration. Additionally, Plateau Lodge provides family-friendly amenities like a trampoline, babysitting services, and games for children, ensuring that guests of all ages have a memorable stay. Experience the best of both worlds with adventure and family fun at this welcoming lodge.

Where to stay in Whakapapa

Whakapapa is a paradise for adventure lovers and families seeking a memorable getaway. Nestled in Tongariro National Park, this charming village offers breathtaking scenery and a welcoming atmosphere. Explore the stunning hiking trails, enjoy family-friendly recreational areas, and soak in the luxury of nearby accommodations. With its convenient location, Whakapapa serves as the perfect base for discovering the region's world heritage sites and indulging in a relaxing escape surrounded by nature's beauty.

• Tongariro National Park: Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's North Island, Tongariro National Park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and adventure opportunities. Whakapapa is located within this stunning national park, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Peak visitation occurs in July and during the holiday season from December to January, attracting travelers for skiing, hiking, and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas, ski lifts, and the iconic mountains that dominate the skyline. The park's diverse ecosystems and volcanic features provide an unparalleled experience for nature lovers.
• National Park Village: Located about 8 miles from Whakapapa, National Park Village serves as a charming hub for travelers seeking adventure and outdoor experiences. This village sees peak visits from June to August, primarily for winter sports, but offers year-round attractions. Visitors can engage in skiing, hiking, and exploring the nearby national park. The welcoming community, along with its picturesque surroundings, makes it a great place to relax after a day of exploration, with plenty of recreational areas and facilities to enhance your stay.
• Iwikau: Just 3 miles from Whakapapa, Iwikau is a quaint village that draws adventure seekers and ski enthusiasts alike. With peak visitor numbers in July and during the holiday season, Iwikau offers easy access to ski fields and lifts, making it a haven for winter sports. This village is surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the national park, providing ample opportunities for hiking and exploring the scenic beauty. The close-knit community and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind after an active day in the mountains.

Things to do near Whakapapa

Whakapapa is an ideal destination for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as skiing and snowboarding at the ski field, along with a ski lift for easy access. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy camping opportunities, and engage in various outdoor experiences that highlight the stunning natural beauty of Tongariro National Park. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures or serene landscapes, Whakapapa has something for everyone.

Shopping

In Whakapapa, you can visit the Mountain Bike Station, a store located 16 miles away. If you're up for a drive, explore nearby shopping options for local gifts and souvenirs in charming shops and boutiques that showcase New Zealand's unique culture and crafts.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at Marton Sash and Door Cycling Park, a serene recreational area perfect for leisurely rides and relaxation, located 8 miles from Whakapapa. Enjoy luxury at Waimarino Golf Club, a country private club 19 miles away, or embrace adventure at Ohakune Disc Golf, a mini-golf spot 17 miles from Whakapapa.

Adventure

The Whakapapa Ski Area offers exhilarating skiing experiences with stunning mountain views, located 3 miles from Whakapapa. Nearby, the Centennial Chair and Rockgarden Chair ski lifts provide access to thrilling slopes, making it an adventure enthusiast's paradise in the heart of Tongariro National Park.

Nightlife

Whakapapa offers a cozy nightlife vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. Enjoy a warm drink at the Knoll Ridge Cafe, or savor a hearty meal at the Chateau Tongariro Hotel’s bar. For a more laid-back evening, mingle with fellow travelers at the local lodge.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Whakapapa

Whakapapa offers free entry to the stunning Tongariro National Park and other attractions. To save on transportation, consider using buses or carpooling. The best times to visit for lower accommodation rates are May and October to November, avoiding the peak months of July, August, and December. Booking hotels about a month in advance can yield savings, while last-minute deals on Expedia may also be beneficial. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can unlock exclusive discounts and help you combine hotel and activity bookings for additional 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 to August and December, 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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the most affordable prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Whakapapa hotel reservations with flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions in and around Whakapapa

Whakapapa is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers, offering breathtaking scenery and a range of outdoor activities. Visitors can explore national parks, historic sites, and the local visitor center, all while experiencing the stunning landscapes of Tongariro National Park. Don't miss a visit to the charming Whakapapa Village for a taste of local culture and hospitality.

• Tongariro National Park: Experience the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand's oldest national park, renowned for its volcanic mountains, emerald lakes, and diverse ecosystems. Enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures, from hiking to mountain biking, all set against stunning scenery.
• Tongariro National Park Whakapapa Visitor Centre: Located in the heart of Whakapapa, this visitor center offers family-friendly activities and informative exhibits about the park's natural wonders. It's a perfect starting point for your adventure, with knowledgeable staff to help plan your day.
• Taranaki Falls: Just a mile away, Taranaki Falls presents a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush landscapes. Enjoy a romantic walk along the tracks and take in the serene beauty of nature, making it an ideal spot for couples and nature lovers alike.

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	Average
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	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Whakapapa

If you're planning a trip to Whakapapa, Tongariro National Park, the nearest major airport is Taupō Airport (TUO), located 43 miles away. For accommodations nearby, consider The Point Villas, Lake Taupo Lodge, or Chalet Eiger Lodge, all 4 miles from the airport and boasting a 5-star rating. These hotels offer transportation services to Taupō Airport for a fee, making your travel convenient. With a range of luxurious lodging options and easy airport access, your journey to Whakapapa will be smooth and enjoyable.