Getting to Ruapehu
With Mt Ruapehu conveniently located right in the central North Island of New Zealand, approximately half way between Auckland and Wellington, it is easy to get here and there are many ways of making the journey.
Drive
| From | To Whakapapa | To Turoa |
|---|---|---|
| Auckland | Approx 4 hrs | Approx 4 hrs 30 mins |
| Wellington | Approx 4 hrs 30 mins | Approx 4 hrs 15 mins |
| Rotorua | Approx 2 hrs | Approx 2 hrs 45 mins |
| Taupo | Approx 1 hr 15 mins | Approx 2 hrs |
| Palmerston North | Approx 2 hrs 30 mins | Approx 2 hrs 15 mins |
From Auckland
From Wellington
Bus
nakedbus operates a service between Auckland and Wellington that stops in Turangi. See www.nakedbus.com. Many accommodation providers and shuttle companies provide transport to Whakapapa Ski Area from Turangi.
Intercity runs regular services from Taupo to National Park Village and Whakapapa Village. There are also services from Auckland and Wellington that stop in National Park Village and Ohakune. See www.intercity.co.nz.
Kiwiana Tours operates a weekend service between Auckland and National Park/Ohakune, departing Sky City at 5pm and returning Sunday 9pm. They have packages that can include mountain transfers, accommodation and breakfast. Call 0800 878 483 or visit www.kiwianatours.com.
Train
Transcenic operates the Overlander passenger train service, which runs between Wellington and Auckland and stops in both National Park Village and Ohakune. The service runs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout the winter. See www.tranzscenic.co.nz.
Fly
Mountain Air has five twin engine aircraft seating five or nine people and operates charter services direct between Auckland Airport and their private airfield at the base of Whakapapa. The one hour flight means you can be on the mountain by 9am and back in Auckland by 6pm. See www.mountainair.co.nz.
Mt Ruapehu Snow Express has a weekly same-day return service from Paraparaumu Airport to Whakapapa. See www.flightours.co.nz.
