Soaking in stunning views from 2020 metres

Panoramic aerial views of Mt Ruapehu and the Central Plateau

A happy family at the top of the Sky Waka gondola

Free cancellation: Get a full refund of ticket price up to 48 hours in advance

4.5 / 5 (4963)

Whakapapa, Sky Waka gondola sightseeing

Explore the heart of New Zealand's North Island from above, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst, during our Summer season- 1 November 2025 - 30 April 2026.

From: NZ$39

per person

2 hours 30 mins

On Request: Confirmed within 48 hours, or fully refunded.

Highlights

Enjoy panoramic views of the Central Plateau and Mt Ruapehu
Dine at the Knoll Ridge Chalet, the highest eatery in New Zealand
Experience the raw beauty of Whakapapa's unique volcanic landscape
Discover the heart of New Zealand’s North Island from above and on foot
Soak in the view from 2020m

Full Description

Welcome to Whakapapa, a world-class adventure playground located on the northern slopes of Mt Ruapehu in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island.

In summer, with the maunga laid bare of its winter coat, enjoy sightseeing on the 1.8km Sky Waka gondola, with views across the Central Plateau, down to the unique volcanic terrain.

On arrival at 2020m, be welcomed to the Knoll Ridge Chalet offering different food and beverage options, with views extended out across the maunga (mountain) and Central Plateau.

Sit back, relax, and soak in the views, or explore on foot, walking over a mix of rock, pumice, scoria, and sand. We ha...

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Includes

One return trip on the Sky Waka gondola

Meeting Point

Sky Waka gondola, Top of Bruce Road, Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu

Additional Information

The Sky Waka gondola is set to run from 10 am to 4 pm every day.
Subject to weather conditions on the day, closed on Christmas Day.

Cancellation policy

Full refund if cancelled up to 48 hours before activity starts.

Our Products/Services

From

NZ$39

per person

2 hours 30 mins

On Request: Confirmed within 48 hours, or fully refunded.

Add to wishlist

Top of Bruce Road, Whakapapa, 3951

Sky Waka gondola sightseeing

Explore the heart of New Zealand's North Island from above, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst, during our Summer season- December to April each year.

Adult: (18+ years)

$39

Child: (5 - 17 years)

$19

Infants Free

2 Hours 30 Minutes

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All payments are held in a separate secure account until the booking date so cancellations and refunds of the ticket price are 100% refundable within the suppliers cancellation policy displayed above.

Please note! This product is on request. We will confirm availability within the shortest possible time after we receive your order. If the booking is not confirmed you will receive 100% refund.

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You will receive your ticket by email straight away. The activity provider will contact you if there are availability issues so you can arrange a different time or day, or receive a full refund.
In the event that you do not receive an email from us, please check your spam folder or notify us via email.
You can cancel for free up to 48 hours before the day of the experience, local time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can fit in one gondola cabin?

Each Sky Waka gondola cabin accommodates up to 10 passengers, providing ample space for families or groups to enjoy the ride together.

Can I take photos or videos inside the gondola?

Yes, photography and videography are permitted inside the gondola cabins.

What should I wear for the gondola experience, especially in winter?

In winter, its recommended to dress in layers to accommodate varying temperatures. A thermal base layer, a waterproof jacket, and waterproof pants are advisable. Avoid wearing jeans, as they can become uncomfortable when wet.

Are helmets or safety gear required during the ride?

Helmets are not required for the gondola ride itself. However, for activities such as skiing or snowboarding, helmets are mandatory for individuals under 17 years old and are highly recommended for all participants.

What happens if it rains or the bad weather on that day ?

Poor weather means cancellation or rescheduling, with a full refund offered if conditions are unsafe.

What are the operating hours of the Sky Waka gondola?

Daily operation hours for the Sky Waka gondola are from 10 am to 4 pm, weather permitting

Whakapapa, Sky Waka gondola sightseeing

From: NZ$39

Highlights

Enjoy panoramic views of the Central Plateau and Mt Ruapehu

Dine at the Knoll Ridge Chalet, the highest eatery in New Zealand

Experience the raw beauty of Whakapapa's unique volcanic landscape

Discover the heart of New Zealand’s North Island from above and on foot

Soak in the view from 2020m

Visit

Full Description

Includes

Additional Information

Our Products/Services

NZ$39

Sky Waka gondola sightseeing

Book Your Experience

Traveler Details

Payment Details

NZ Bank Account (Direct Debit)

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can fit in one gondola cabin?

Can I take photos or videos inside the gondola?

What should I wear for the gondola experience, especially in winter?

Are helmets or safety gear required during the ride?

What happens if it rains or the bad weather on that day ?

What are the operating hours of the Sky Waka gondola?

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